The subject that has seen a surge in popularity among UPSC aspirants for the optional paper is Political Science. This subject attracts candidates due to its relevance in understanding India's political landscape and its scoring potential. The comprehensive syllabus covers key aspects of Indian governance, international relations, and political theory, enabling students to correlate theories with current events effectively. Additionally, the overlap with general studies papers makes Political Science a strategic choice, allowing aspirants to consolidate their preparation. The subject’s analytical nature also helps develop critical thinking skills essential for the UPSC examination.