The significance of the General Studies papers in the UPSC Civil Services Mains lies in their comprehensive coverage of multiple disciplines. They assess candidates' knowledge on critical issues including current affairs, Indian history, geography, polity, and society. These papers help evaluate a candidate's analytical abilities, critical thinking, and understanding of complex subjects. Moreover, they serve as a foundation for interviews, where knowledge from these papers often plays a crucial role in shaping candidates' perspectives. A solid performance in General Studies is essential for success in the selection process.