The NABARD Development Assistant syllabus is the most important starting point for candidates preparing for the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) Development Assistant examination. A clear understanding of the syllabus, exam pattern, marking scheme, and subject-wise weightage helps aspirants prepare in a structured and score-maximizing manner.
NABARD Development Assistant Exam Overview
Before diving into the nabard development assistant syllabus, candidates should understand the overall recruitment process. NABARD conducts the Development Assistant examination to recruit clerical-level staff for its regional offices across India.
The selection process generally includes:
- Preliminary Examination
- Main Examination
- Language Proficiency Test (LPT)
Only candidates who qualify for each stage are allowed to appear in the next stage.
NABARD Development Assistant Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is as important as knowing the nabard development assistant syllabus. The exam is conducted in online mode and follows a sectional format.
NABARD Development Assistant Preliminary Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 40 | 40 | 20 Minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 40 | 40 | 20 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 40 | 40 | 20 Minutes |
| Total | 120 | 120 | 60 Minutes |
- Each question carries 1 mark
- Negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer
- Prelims is qualifying in nature
NABARD Development Assistant Prelims Syllabus
The nabard development assistant syllabus for prelims focuses on testing basic aptitude, reasoning skills, and English comprehension. Below is the subject-wise detailed syllabus.
English Language Syllabus
The English section evaluates candidates’ grammar, vocabulary, and reading skills.
Important Topics:
- Reading Comprehension
- Cloze Test
- Error Detection
- Sentence Improvement
- Fill in the Blanks
- Para Jumbles
- Vocabulary (Synonyms & Antonyms)
- Phrase Replacement
Reasoning Ability Syllabus
This section checks logical thinking and analytical skills as per the nabard development assistant syllabus.
Important Topics:
- Seating Arrangement (Linear & Circular)
- Puzzles
- Syllogism
- Coding-Decoding
- Inequality
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Order and Ranking
- Alphanumeric Series
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
The quantitative aptitude section tests numerical ability and problem-solving speed.
Important Topics:
- Simplification
- Number Series
- Percentage
- Profit and Loss
- Ratio and Proportion
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Time and Work
- Time, Speed and Distance
- Data Interpretation (Bar, Line, Pie Charts)
NABARD Development Assistant Mains Exam Pattern
Candidates who qualify the prelims exam move on to the mains stage. The nabard development assistant syllabus for mains is more comprehensive and includes additional subjects.
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Ability | 40 | 50 | 30 Minutes |
| English Language | 40 | 40 | 30 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 40 | 50 | 30 Minutes |
| Computer Knowledge | 40 | 40 | 20 Minutes |
| General Awareness | 40 | 40 | 20 Minutes |
| Total | 200 | 220 | 130 Minutes |
- Negative marking of 0.25 marks
- Mains score determines final merit
NABARD Development Assistant Mains Syllabus (Subject-wise)
Below is the detailed nabard development assistant syllabus for the mains examination.
Reasoning Ability (Mains)
This section includes moderate to high-level reasoning questions.
Topics Covered:
- Advanced Puzzles
- Seating Arrangement
- Logical Reasoning
- Input-Output
- Data Sufficiency
- Statement and Assumptions
- Statement and Conclusions
- Course of Action
English Language (Mains)
The English syllabus remains similar to prelims but with higher difficulty.
Topics Covered:
- Reading Comprehension (Long Passages)
- Essay Writing
- Precis Writing
- Letter Writing
- Advanced Grammar
- Vocabulary-Based Questions
Quantitative Aptitude (Mains)
This section tests accuracy, calculation speed, and data analysis skills.
Topics Covered:
- Data Interpretation (Caselet, Missing DI)
- Probability
- Permutation and Combination
- Quadratic Equations
- Number System
- Mensuration
- Simplification and Approximation
Computer Knowledge Syllabus
As per the nabard development assistant syllabus, basic computer awareness is mandatory.
Important Topics:
- Computer Fundamentals
- Hardware and Software
- Operating Systems
- MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint
- Internet and Networking
- Computer Shortcuts
- Cyber Security Basics
General Awareness Syllabus
General Awareness plays a crucial role in scoring well in mains.
Topics Included:
- Current Affairs (Last 6–8 Months)
- Banking Awareness
- Indian Economy
- Financial Institutions
- Agriculture and Rural Development
- Government Schemes
- RBI & NABARD Related News
NABARD Development Assistant Language Proficiency Test (LPT)
Candidates shortlisted after mains must appear for the Language Proficiency Test.
- Conducted in the official regional language
- Includes reading, writing, and speaking skills
- Qualifying in nature
- Mandatory for final appointment
NABARD Development Assistant Syllabus – Preparation Strategy
A smart strategy aligned with the nabard development assistant syllabus can significantly improve selection chances.
Read More – SSC MTS Syllabus 2026: Complete Exam Pattern & Subject-Wise Syllabus
Preparation Tips:
- Start with basics and gradually move to advanced topics
- Practice mock tests regularly
n- Focus on accuracy to reduce negative marking - Read newspapers daily for General Awareness
- Revise computer fundamentals weekly
Best Books for NABARD Development Assistant Syllabus
| Subject | Recommended Books |
|---|---|
| Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Quantitative Aptitude – R.S. Aggarwal |
| English | Objective General English – S.P. Bakshi |
| Computer | Computer Awareness – Arihant |
| General Awareness | Lucent GK + Monthly Current Affairs |
Important Link
| Official Website | Click Here |
| Syllabus PDF | Click Here |
NABARD Development Assistant Syllabus FAQ
Q1. Is the NABARD Development Assistant syllabus same every year?
Yes, the nabard development assistant syllabus remains largely the same, though exam difficulty may vary.
Q2. Is prelims marks counted in final merit?
No, prelims is qualifying in nature. Only mains marks are considered for final selection.
Q3. Is General Awareness important for NABARD Development Assistant?
Yes, General Awareness is a high-scoring section in mains and plays a crucial role in final merit.
Q4. Is there negative marking in NABARD Development Assistant exam?
Yes, 0.25 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer