Current affairs significantly influence both the prelims and mains papers of the UPSC exam. For the prelims, candidates must stay updated on recent events and developments, as questions often stem from ongoing political, economic, and social issues. In the mains, current affairs add relevance to essays and answer writing, allowing aspirants to support arguments with real-world examples. Understanding the context of events helps candidates craft **analytical responses** and display awareness of contemporary challenges facing the nation. Therefore, regular engagement with news sources and analytical articles is crucial for comprehensive preparation.