The Odisha Special Armed Police (OSAP) Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) recruitment process is highly competitive, attracting a large number of candidates every year. To succeed, it’s crucial to have a thorough understanding of the OSAP IRB Syllabus, exam pattern, and selection process. The IRB recruitment includes various stages, starting with the written exam, followed by physical tests, document verification, and medical tests.
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This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the OSAP IRB Syllabus, exam pattern, and the best resources to prepare for each subject. We will also answer the most frequently asked questions about the exam to help you gear up for success.
The OSAP IRB recruitment process is multi-stage, ensuring that only the most physically and mentally capable candidates make it through. Below is the selection process:
The first step is a written test that evaluates a candidate’s knowledge in various subjects. Candidates who qualify the written exam move on to the next phase.
In this stage, candidates’ height, chest measurements, and weight are assessed to ensure they meet the physical standards required for the post.
The PET tests the physical fitness of candidates through tasks like running, long jumps, and high jumps. Passing the PET is mandatory to proceed further.
Candidates who pass the PET are called for document verification. All educational and identity documents are scrutinized to ensure eligibility.
Finally, candidates undergo a thorough medical examination to confirm their physical and medical fitness for the position.
| Odisha 48,000 PYQ | Download |
| Situational Awareness 1,000+ MCQ | Download |
The written exam is a crucial part of the OSAP IRB Syllabus. It tests candidates on various subjects through a multiple-choice format. Below is the exam pattern:
| Detail | Description |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes |
| Total Questions | 100 MCQs |
| Negative Marking | 0.25 marks deducted per wrong answer |
| Question Language | English |
| Total Subjects | 7 |
The exam is designed to test candidates’ proficiency across multiple subjects. The distribution of questions by subject is detailed in the next section.
| Subject | Number of Questions |
| Odia | 10 MCQs |
| English | 15 MCQs |
| General Knowledge (GK) | 15 MCQs |
| Mathematics | 15 MCQs |
| Reasoning | 15 MCQs |
| Computer | 15 MCQs |
| Situational Awareness | 15 MCQs |
The syllabus covers a broad range of subjects, requiring comprehensive preparation. Let’s dive deeper into the specific topics for each subject.
Below is a detailed list of the topics you need to cover under each subject of the OSAP IRB Syllabus:
| Subject | Topics |
| Odia | Grammar, Vocabulary, Translation, Comprehension, Idioms & Phrases, Proverbs, Essay Writing |
| English | Grammar, Sentence Structure, Synonyms & Antonyms, Comprehension, Sentence Correction, Tenses, Essay Writing |
| General Knowledge (GK) | Current Affairs (National & International), Indian History, Geography, Polity, Sports, Culture, Environment |
| Mathematics | Percentage, Ratio & Proportion, Simple & Compound Interest, Time & Work, Profit & Loss, Averages, Simplification |
| Reasoning | Coding-Decoding, Puzzles, Blood Relations, Syllogisms, Analogies, Pattern Recognition, Direction Test |
| Computer | Basics of Computers, MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet, E-Mail, Operating Systems, Cyber Security |
| Situational Awareness | Problem-Solving in Critical Situations, Decision-Making, Common-Sense Scenarios, Real-Life Situational Judgment |
Each subject requires a different preparation approach, and knowing the syllabus in detail helps streamline your study plan. Now, let’s look at the best books to refer to for each subject.
To succeed in the OSAP IRB exam, using the right study materials is essential. Here are the recommended books for each subject of the OSAP IRB Syllabus:
| Subject | Theory Book | Practice E-Book |
| Odia | Saraswata | Click Here |
| English | Neetu Singh’s English Grammar | Click Here |
| General Knowledge (GK) | Tarun Goel & Lucent’s General Knowledge | Click Here |
| Current Affairs | Speedy | Click Here |
| Odisha GK | Arihant | Click Here |
| Mathematics | RS Agrawal’s Quantitative Aptitude | Click Here |
| Reasoning | RS Agrawal’s Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | Click Here |
| Computer | Arihant’s Computer Awareness | Click Here |
| Situational Awareness | Tech Of World App | Click Here |
These books are highly recommended by toppers and experts for covering the essential topics of the OSAP IRB Syllabus. Make sure to use them for systematic preparation and practice.
Once candidates qualify for the written test, they must undergo a Physical Measurement Test (PMT) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET). The details of these tests are as follows:
| Category | Height | Weight | Chest (Unexpanded) | Chest (Expanded) |
| UR/SEBC | 168 cm | 55 kg | 79 cm | 84 cm |
| SC/ST | 163 cm | 50 kg | 76 cm | 81 cm |
| Event | Standard (Men) |
| Running | 1.6 km in 6 minutes |
| Broad Jump | Minimum 4.00 meters |
| High Jump | Minimum 1.38 meters |
Candidates who fail to meet these physical requirements will not progress to the medical test stage.
The medical test ensures that candidates are physically fit for the demands of the job. Below are the primary requirements:
| Medical Criteria | Standard |
| Vision | No color blindness, proper visual acuity |
| Hearing | Clear hearing and no impediment in speech |
| Body Structure | No flat feet, knock knees, varicose veins, or deformities |
Additionally, candidates with any chronic diseases or disabilities that hinder their job performance may be disqualified.
Candidates who possess valid driving licenses can opt for the Driving Test. Those who pass the test are awarded additional marks:
| Vehicle Type | Marks Awarded |
| Heavy Motor Vehicle | 5 marks |
| Light Motor Vehicle | 3 marks |
What is the selection process for OSAP IRB recruitment?
The selection process consists of five stages: written exam, Physical Measurement Test (PMT), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), document verification, and medical test.
How many questions are asked in the OSAP IRB written exam?
The written exam has 100 multiple-choice questions.
What is the duration of the OSAP IRB written exam?
The exam duration is 120 minutes (2 hours).
Is there negative marking in the OSAP IRB exam?
Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer.
How many subjects are covered in the OSAP IRB Syllabus?
The written exam covers seven subjects: Odia, English, General Knowledge, Mathematics, Reasoning, Computer, and Situational Awareness.
How can I download the OSAP IRB Syllabus?
You can download the official OSAP IRB syllabus from the Odishapolice.gov.in website or refer to trusted educational websites that provide the syllabus in PDF format.
What are the best books to prepare for the OSAP IRB Syllabus?
For each subject, the best books include Saraswata for Odia, Neetu Singh for English, RS Agrawal for Math and Reasoning, Tarun Goel & Lucent for General Knowledge, and Arihant for Computer Awareness.
What topics are covered in the General Knowledge section?
The General Knowledge section covers current affairs, Indian history, geography, Indian polity, sports, culture, and the environment.
Which book is best for OSAP IRB General Knowledge preparation?
Tarun Goel & Lucent’s General Knowledge book is widely recommended for GK preparation.
What is Situational Awareness in the OSAP IRB syllabus?
Situational Awareness tests your ability to make decisions in critical and real-life scenarios, often requiring common sense and problem-solving skills.
Is the OSAP IRB exam conducted in Odia or English?
The exam is conducted in the English language.
How should I prepare for the Reasoning section of the OSAP IRB Syllabus?
To prepare for Reasoning, use RS Agrawal’s Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning book, which covers all key topics like puzzles, blood relations, and coding-decoding.
How important is current affairs in the OSAP IRB exam?
Current affairs play an important role in the General Knowledge section, covering both national and international events.
Is physical fitness important for the OSAP IRB selection process?
Yes, after passing the written exam, candidates must pass the Physical Measurement Test (PMT) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET) to proceed further.
What is the minimum height requirement for OSAP IRB recruitment?
The height requirement varies for male and female candidates and can be checked in the official recruitment notification.