Knowledge of social issues plays a critical role in UPSC civil services preparation, as it helps candidates understand complex societal dynamics and their implications for governance. Questions related to social justice, equality, and community welfare often feature prominently in the syllabus, requiring candidates to demonstrate an awareness of the challenges faced by various segments of society. Understanding these issues equips aspirants to formulate relevant policies and effectively address public concerns when they assume duties as civil servants, thus directly contributing to the nation's development goals.