BharatNotes Paper A (Indian Language, 300 marks) tests an Eighth Schedule language; Paper B (English, 300 marks) tests English. Both are qualifying at 25% (75/300). North-eastern states get Paper A exemption.
Paper A — Indian Language (Qualifying):
- Marks: 300; Qualifying threshold: 25% = 75 marks (not counted toward merit)
- Languages: Any of the 22 Eighth Schedule languages (same list as Mains medium options)
- Tested: Essay, precis, translation (English→chosen language and reverse), grammar, usage
- Purpose: Tests functional proficiency in one Indian language
Paper B — English (Qualifying):
- Marks: 300; Qualifying threshold: 25% = 75 marks (not counted toward merit)
- Content: Essay, comprehension, precis, usage — same pattern as Paper A but in English
- All candidates must attempt Paper B regardless of their Mains medium
North-East state exemption:
Candidates from the following states are exempt from Paper A (Indian Language paper):
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Manipur
- Meghalaya
- Mizoram
- Nagaland
- Sikkim
This exemption was granted because the official state languages of these states (e.g., English in Meghalaya, Nagaland) are not on the Eighth Schedule, making Paper A an undue burden.
Practical note: Candidates from Paper A languages (e.g., Tamil, Bengali) often underestimate Paper A. The 25% qualifying threshold (75/300) is easy but not automatic — candidates have been disqualified for scoring 60–70/300 by not preparing adequately.
