Introduction

The IRDAI Phase 2 examination not only assesses candidates’ domain knowledge in insurance but also places significant emphasis on managerial competence. Paper III – Insurance and Management, particularly the Management section, tests aspirants on fundamental principles of management, organizational behavior, communication, leadership, and business ethics — all essential for effective governance in the insurance and financial services sector.

This blog offers an in-depth exploration of Previous Year Questions (PYQs) from 2017 to 2024, identifying core managerial themes and real-world application areas that frequently feature in the exam. The PYQs reveal IRDAI’s focus on evaluating not just theoretical clarity but also the ability to apply management concepts in practical, evolving business contexts.

Key themes include leadership theories, decision-making processes, motivation models, HR practices, and digital transformation in business environments. Case-study based questions further test the candidate’s critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and people management skills — especially in situations involving communication barriers, team conflicts, or customer service challenges.

By thoroughly analyzing these PYQs, candidates can pinpoint recurring focus areas such as:

• Leadership and motivational theories (Maslow, Herzberg, McGregor).
• Organizational behavior and culture.
• Human Resource Management vs Personnel Management.
• Functions of management (Planning, Organizing, Staffing, Directing, Controlling).
• Contemporary challenges like digital marketing, business ethics, and organizational change.
• Applied scenarios testing empathy, body language, communication barriers, and team dynamics.

This section not only assesses one’s conceptual foundation in management but also one’s adaptability to solve problems in a people-centric, regulatory, and evolving service sector environment.

With the right blend of structured understanding, strategic revision, and case-based thinking, aspirants can confidently approach the Management section and significantly enhance their overall performance in IRDAI Phase 2.

Importance of Analyzing Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Analyzing Previous Year Questions (PYQs) is an indispensable component of successful exam preparation, providing a wealth of information that significantly improves your study approach.

1. Uncovering Exam Patterns: PYQs help you spot recurring themes and key subject areas. You’ll grasp how questions are structured and how they’ve changed over time, allowing you to prioritize high-yield topics for concentrated study.
2. Honing Time Management Skills: By working through PYQs, you can gauge the time needed for various question types, enabling you to devise a strategy for completing the exam within the allotted time. Consistent timed practice with PYQs will enhance both your speed and precision.
3. Evaluating Performance and Self-Assessment: PYQs offer a clear picture of your strengths and weaknesses across different sections. They highlight areas demanding more practice, allowing you to track your progress and adjust your study plan as needed.
4. Deciphering the Examiner’s Mindset: Through PYQ analysis, you can discern if the exam leans towards conceptual understanding or factual recall. Examining case study questions refines your problem-solving abilities, and you’ll understand the desired equilibrium between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
5. Cultivating Exam Confidence: Familiarity with PYQs lessens anxiety and uncertainty about the exam. It bolsters your capacity to tackle challenging or convoluted questions and sharpens your critical thinking skills under pressure.
6. Crafting an Efficient Revision Plan: PYQs act as readily available practice materials for streamlined revision. They assist in pinpointing high-value topics for last-minute review sessions and solidify your understanding by applying concepts in authentic exam-like situations.

Incorporating PYQs into your study regimen is a highly effective tactic for strengthening your preparation, refining your test-taking proficiency, and significantly boosting your prospects of success in the IRDAI Grade A exam. Regular practice and thorough analysis can profoundly impact your performance.

Exam Pattern & Syllabus

Phase II: Mains Examination

The IRDAI Assistant Manager Mains Exam is conducted in an offline, pen-and-paper format, requiring candidates to demonstrate strong descriptive writing skills. The exam consists of three papers, each carrying 100 marks, summing up to a total of 300 marks. The entire examination lasts for 180 minutes, with 60 minutes allotted per paper.

Management syllabus

a) Its nature and scope;

b) Management Processes – Planning, Organization, Staffing, Directing and Controlling; role of a Manager in an Organization;

c) Leadership: The tasks of a leader; leadership styles; leadership theories; A successful leader versus an effective leader;

d) Human Resource Development- Concept of HRD; Goals of HRD; Career Planning – Training and Development;

e) Performance Appraisal – Potential appraisal and development – feedback and performance counselling – rewards – employee welfare;

f) Motivation, Morale and Incentives: Theories of Motivation; How Managers Motivate; Concept of Morale; Factors determining morale; Role of Incentives in Building up Morale;

g) Communication: Steps in the Communication Process; Communication Channels; Oral versus Written Communication; Verbal versus non-verbal Communication; upward, downward and lateral communication; Barriers to Communication;

h) Role of Information Technology;

i) Corporate Governance: Factors affecting Corporate Governance; Mechanisms of Corporate Governance.

PYQ 2017-2023-2024

Paper III – Insurance and Management – Part 2 – Management

Attempt any Five questions. Each question carries 10 marks. Write answer in 100 Words

a) What is leadership strategy and explain various styles of leadership?

b) Explain the process of effective decision making?

c) What is importance of digital Marketing?

d) What is importance of Business ethics?

e) Explain team building process.

f) Case Study based Question on Empathy and Body Language:

A manager at a large retail store observed an increase in customer complaints regarding interactions with staff members. To address this issue, a workshop focusing on empathy and effective body language was conducted to improve customer service.

During the workshop, a role-play scenario was enacted. An employee named Sarah was tasked with handling a customer named John, who was upset about a defective product he had purchased. Initially, Sarah approached John with her arms crossed and avoided eye contact, which seemed to escalate John’s frustration. After a brief pause, Sarah recalled her training. She uncrossed her arms, maintained eye contact, and spoke in a calm voice to acknowledge John’s concerns. She empathized with his situation by stating, “I understand how upsetting it can be to receive a product that doesn’t meet your expectations.” Sarah’s adjustment in her approach visibly calmed John, and they proceeded to resolve the issue amicably.

Questions:

1. Analyze how Sarah’s initial body language may have impacted John’s perception and behavior. What changes did she make to improve the interaction?
2. Discuss the role of empathy in customer service. How did Sarah demonstrate empathy, and why is it effective in resolving customer complaints?

IRDAI Grade A 2023 – Phase 2

Sub-section – Paper III – Insurance and Management – Part 2 – Management (65 marks)

1. Explain communication skills (20 marks)
2. Write a short note on organisational change. (10 marks)

3. A passage was given, you have read it and answer 3 questions below it. (15 marks)

In a multinational corporation, effective communication is pivotal for seamless operations across diverse geographical locations. The case study focuses on XYZ Corp, a global tech giant with offices in over 30 countries. Despite advanced technological tools, XYZ Corp faces significant challenges in internal communication.

For instance, during the rollout of a new global policy, the U.S. headquarters sent out detailed emails and hosted video conferences to explain the changes. However, employees in the East Asian offices reported confusion and a lack of clarity about the implementations. The feedback highlighted issues such as the timing of video conferences not being suitable for all time zones and the translations of emails not capturing the nuances of the new policy.

Additionally, the company’s reliance on written communication has been identified as a barrier for some non-native English speakers who prefer more direct, verbal instructions. These communication barriers have led to delays in project deadlines and a noticeable drop in employee satisfaction scores.

Questions:

A. Identify and discuss the key communication barriers faced by XYZ Corp as described in the passage. (5 marks)
B. What strategies could XYZ Corp implement to overcome the communication challenges highlighted in the case study? (5 marks)
C. How could addressing communication barriers at XYZ Corp impact employee morale and productivity? (5 marks)

4. Differentiate between personnel management and human resource management. (10 marks)

5. Analyse the below graph and answer the following questions below it: (10 marks)

Questions:

A. Given that 1,000 candidates applied to the Research department this year, use the selection ratio provided in the graph to calculate how many candidates were likely selected. Additionally, based on the selection ratio across departments, identify which department offers the lowest probability of selection for applicants.

6. Read the below passage and answer the following questions below it (10 marks):

At DEF Logistics, a growing logistics and supply chain management company, effective application of fundamental management processes—planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling—is essential to maintaining efficient operations and driving growth. The company recently initiated a strategic review of these processes to enhance their effectiveness in the face of increasing competition and market volatility.

The initiative started with a comprehensive planning phase, where strategic goals were redefined to focus on technological integration and market expansion. During the organizing phase, DEF restructured its teams to align more closely with these new objectives, creating specialized units for technology implementation and market research.

Staffing efforts were intensified to recruit skilled professionals who could drive these initiatives forward. In the directing phase, management focused on clear communication of the new directions and motivating staff through training and development opportunities.

Finally, in the controlling phase, DEF Logistics implemented new performance metrics to monitor progress towards the strategic goals. These metrics were designed not only to measure outcomes but also to provide ongoing feedback for continuous improvement.

Questions:

A. How could enhancing the staffing process impact DEF Logistics’ ability to meet its new strategic goals? (5 marks)

B. What role might the controlling process play in sustaining improvements at DEF Logistics and how does it support the other management processes? (5 marks)

IRDAI Grade A 2024 – Phase 2

Sub-section – Paper III – Insurance and Management – Part 2 – Management (65 marks)

Q1. Answer any one of the questions given below in 300 words. (20 Marks)
A. Write a detailed note on Leadership and Motivational Theories.
B. On-the-Job Training vs Off-the-Job Training

Q2. Read the given data below carefully and answer the following questions. (3×5 = 15 Marks)
Zomato, founded in 2008, has emerged as one of the most prominent food delivery and restaurant discovery platforms in the world. Initially established as a restaurant review and listing website, Zomato evolved into a comprehensive ecosystem offering services such as online food delivery, dining-out reservations, restaurant discovery, and most recently, quick-commerce solutions. Its growth trajectory has been marked by aggressive expansions, strategic acquisitions, and significant technological innovations.

Zomato’s business model focuses on three primary segments: online food delivery, where it connects customers with restaurants and ensures doorstep delivery; dining-out services, allowing users to book tables and access exclusive deals; and restaurant discovery, providing reviews, ratings, and menus to facilitate informed dining decisions. The company has consistently invested in technology to enhance user experience, including AI-driven personalization and robust logistics networks.

In 2022, Zomato made a strategic move by acquiring Blinkit, formerly known as Grofers, for approximately $4.50 crores. Blinkit specializes in the quick-commerce space offering grocery and essential deliveries within minutes. This acquisition was part of Zomato’s broader strategy to diversify its portfolio and tap into the rapidly growing quick-commerce market. Blinkit’s integration allowed Zomato to expand its consumer base and strengthen the delivery infrastructure of its food delivery operations.

The company went public in July 2021, listing on the Indian stock exchanges with a strong initial public offering (IPO). The IPO was oversubscribed multiple times, reflecting investor confidence in Zomato’s growth potential. Notably, this listing occurred before the Blinkit acquisition, marking a proud moment in its corporate history. The funds raised through the IPO were directed towards business expansion, technological innovation, and bolstering delivery infrastructure.

Despite its growth, Zomato faces challenges such as high competition from Swiggy and emerging local players, regulatory compliance issues, and concerns about profitability. The financial year 2024 (FY24) offered a mixed performance. Zomato reported a 40% year-on-year increase in revenue, recording around 28,000 crores, driven by higher order volumes and improved monetization strategies. However, the company also posted operational losses, attributed to significant investments in technology, marketing, and logistics scaling. While the losses remain a concern, Zomato’s leadership emphasized its focus on long-term sustainability and growth over short-term profitability.

Moreover, Zomato is actively working on environmental and social initiatives, such as sustainability reporting and partnerships with NGOs to reduce food waste. It also faces scrutiny regarding its gig workforce model, raising questions about fair wages and working conditions.

Zomato’s journey indicates a dynamic and evolving business model that adapts to changing market demands. Its ability to innovate, expand, and diversify has cemented its position as a leader in the Indian food-tech space.

Q2: Questions
A. Which sectors does Zomato operate in?
B. When was Zomato listed on the stock exchange, and was it before or after the Blinkit acquisition?
C. Analyze Zomato’s financial performance in FY24 and discuss the factors contributing to it.

Q3. Answer any two of the questions given below in 100 words. (2 x 10 = 20 Marks)
A. What is the difference between Authority and Delegation?
B. State and explain the functions of management.
C. What is the difference between Personnel Management and Human Resource Management (HRM)?
D. Write a detailed note on Organizational Behaviour.

Q4. Answer the following questions using the help of the data given below. (5 x 2 = 10 marks)

A. Calculate Profit percentage growth over the years.

B. Calculate Profit percentage growth over the years.

Syllabus Topics vs PYQs Analysis:

Syllabus Analysis with PYQ Mapping (2017–2024)

a) Nature and Scope of Management

Syllabus Focus: Meaning, objectives, functions, scope, and significance in organizations. PYQs:

• “What is the nature of management?” – Repeated (10 marks)
• 2023: “Short note on organisational change” (10 marks) Strategic Tip: Definitions, nature (art, science, profession), application in insurance/financial services.

b) Management Processes – Planning, Organizing, Staffing, Directing, Controlling

Syllabus Focus: Managerial roles and functional tools. PYQs:

• 2023 & 2024: DEF Logistics Case Study – Apply 5 functions (10 marks)
• 2024: “State and explain the functions of management.” (10 marks) Strategic Tip: Emphasize interconnection; link to insurance operations (claims, policy issuance, service).

c) Leadership – Tasks, Styles, Theories

Syllabus Focus: Leadership styles; transformational vs transactional; team dynamics. PYQs:

• 2023: “Leadership strategy and styles” (10 marks)
• 2024: “Leadership and Motivation Theories” (20 marks Essay) Strategic Tip: Blend theory + practice (insurance teams, customer service, virtual teams).

d) Human Resource Development (HRD)

Syllabus Focus: Training, development, career planning. PYQs:

• 2024: “On-the-Job vs Off-the-Job Training” (20 marks)
• 2024: “Personnel Management vs HRM” (10 marks)
• 2023: “Team Building Process” (10 marks) Strategic Tip: Focus on HRD in service industries, digital HR tools.

e) Performance Appraisal

Syllabus Focus: Feedback systems, reward practices, employee welfare. PYQs:

• Covered indirectly (e.g., DEF Logistics: controlling)
• 2023: Graph-based Qs on selection ratio, turnover Strategic Tip: Know 360° feedback, KPIs, appraisal models in service sectors.

f) Motivation, Morale, Incentives

Syllabus Focus: Theories (Maslow, Herzberg, McGregor), morale & incentives. PYQs:

• 2024: “Leadership and Motivation Theories” (20 marks)
• Repeated: “Motivation Theories” (10 marks) Strategic Tip: Link theories with real-world scenarios (sales, call centers).

g) Communication

Syllabus Focus: Types, channels, steps, barriers. PYQs:

• 2023: “Explain communication skills” (20 marks)
• 2023: XYZ Corp Case Study – International barriers (15 marks)
• 2023: Body language & empathy (10 marks) Strategic Tip: Prioritize case-based learning—verbal/non-verbal, CRM emails.

h) Role of Information Technology

Syllabus Focus: MIS, decision-making, HR tech, analytics. PYQs:

• 2024: Zomato Case Study – Tech in logistics & growth (15 marks)
• DEF Logistics: IT in performance metrics (5 marks) Strategic Tip: Focus on IT-enabled HRM, service improvement, dashboards.

i) Corporate Governance

Syllabus Focus: Ethics, board independence, ESG. PYQs:

• 2023: “Importance of Business Ethics” (10 marks)
• 2024: Zomato Case Study – ESG, fair wages, CSR Strategic Tip: Study SEBI norms, real-life governance in banking/insurance.

Emerging Trends in PYQs

Year	New Pattern Observed	Key Focus
2023	Role-play, empathy, body language	Soft skills, service recovery
2023	Data-driven cases (XYZ, DEF Logistics)	Communication, mgt cycle
2024	Business case (Zomato)	Strategy, IT, ESG
2024	Integrated HR-Leadership-Motivation Essay	HRD synthesis

Management PYQ Analysis (2023 vs 2024)

The Management Section of Paper III tests candidates on both theoretical understanding and practical application of core managerial concepts. A thorough analysis of past papers (2023 & 2024) reveals trends in question types, difficulty level, and important topics.

Topic-Wise Distribution of Questions

Topic	2024	2023
General Management Principles	2	1
Communication	—	2
Human Resource Development (HRD)	2	2
Motivation and Leadership	1	—
Organizational Behaviour	1	—
Miscellaneous (Soft Skills, Case-based)	5	—

Insight: 2024 witnessed greater variety, with a rise in soft-skills/case-based questions (e.g., empathy, body language). HRD and General Management remained core areas in both years.

Difficulty Level Analysis

Management Questions

Level	2024	2023
Easy	8	3
Moderate	3	3
Difficult	0	0
Total	11	6

Takeaway: The paper is conceptual and manageable. Focus on theory clarity, concise writing, and applied understanding.

Key Takeaways from IRDAI Assistant Manager Previous Year Questions

Analyzing the IRDAI Grade A PYQs is not just about reviewing old papers—it’s a strategic move to decode the exam pattern, understand what the examiner expects, and streamline your preparation efficiently.

Here’s what this analysis helps you achieve:

1. Prioritize What Matters Most

By identifying frequently asked topics, you can focus your energy on high-weightage areas instead of studying everything blindly.

2. Understand the Exam Mindset

Familiarizing yourself with past papers helps reduce exam anxiety. You gain insight into the question style, tone, and difficulty, allowing you to walk into the exam hall with confidence.

3. Build Speed and Accuracy

Solving PYQs under timed conditions helps sharpen your time management skills. You’ll learn to balance speed with accuracy—crucial for clearing both Phase 1 and Phase 2.

4. Self-Assessment for Smarter Prep

These papers serve as a diagnostic tool to evaluate your preparation. Spot your strengths, identify weak areas, and tailor your revision accordingly.

5. Choose the Right Resources

The PYQ trend helps you filter out unnecessary material. You can pick books, mock tests, and courses that are aligned with IRDAI’s actual question style and syllabus.

By integrating PYQ analysis into your preparation strategy, you’re not just working hard—you’re working smart. And that can make all the difference.

IRDAI Assistant Manager 2025 Vacancies: Expected Number of Posts

Why Choose C4S Courses for IRDAI?

C4S (Clarity4Sure) provides holistic coverage for all components of the IRDAI Assistant Manager exam, ensuring comprehensive preparation with expert-led resources.

Comprehensive Coverage for All Phases

• Prelims: Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English, General Awareness
• Mains: Descriptive English, Economic & Social Issues, Insurance & Management
• Interview Prep: Personalized mock interviews with expert feedback

Why Opt for Clarity4Sure (C4S) for IRDAI Exam Preparation?

Clarity4Sure (C4S) presents a structured, intelligent, and comprehensive solution for your IRDAI exam journey. Whether you are commencing your preparation or aiming to refine your final attempt, C4S offers support across all three phases of the examination.

Comprehensive Coverage – From Prelims to Interview:

• Phase 1: Covers Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and General Awareness.

• Phase 2: Includes Descriptive English, Economic & Social Issues (with an insurance focus), and dedicated sections on Insurance & Management.
• Interview: Provides mock interviews coupled with personalized feedback.

Distinguishing Features of C4S:

• Concept-Driven Learning:
  • Expert-led video lectures deliver clear and simple explanations.
  • Core concepts are made accessible through real-life examples.
• Realistic Mock Tests & Detailed Analysis:
  • Offers simulated full-length and sectional mock tests.
  • Provides in-depth performance insights to meticulously track your progress.
• Up-to-Date Current Affairs & Insurance Sector Insights:
  • Daily capsules cover IRDAI news, economic policy updates, and sector trends.
  • Monthly insurance digests are provided for convenient on-the-go revision.
• Mastery in Descriptive Writing:
  • Practice essay topics with expert evaluation and feedback.
  • Features peer review options and model answers for benchmarking.
• Intelligent Features for Dedicated Aspirants:
  • Adaptive Study Plans: Customized strategies to align with your individual learning pace.
  • 24/7 Doubt Forums: Access to personalized mentorship from subject matter experts.
  • Interview Toolkit: Includes real interview questions, guidance on structured answers, and mock interview drills.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the weightage of the Management section in Phase 2?

Answer:
The Management section is part of Paper III (Insurance & Management), carrying 65 marks in total. Typically, 5 to 6 questions are asked from the Management part, including 10-mark short notes, 20-mark essays, and case-based or data interpretation questions.

2. How many types of questions appear in the Management paper?

Answer:
Management questions come in multiple formats:

• 100-word answers (10 marks each)
• 300-word essays (20 marks)
• Case studies with analytical questions (5 or 10 marks)
• Data/graph-based questions (5–10 marks)

The paper assesses theoretical clarity, practical application, and decision-making skills.

3. What are the most frequently repeated topics in PYQs?

Answer:
Based on PYQ analysis from 2017–2024, high-frequency topics include:

• Functions of Management (Planning, Organizing, Directing, etc.)
• Motivation & Leadership Theories (Maslow, Herzberg, McGregor)
• HRD & Training (On-the-Job vs Off-the-Job)
• Organizational Behaviour& Team Building
• Communication and Soft Skills (Empathy, Body Language)

4. Is the difficulty level of the Management paper high?

Answer:
No. The difficulty is mostly Easy to Moderate. In 2024:

• 8 questions were Easy
• 3 were Moderate
• No difficult questions were reported

Conceptual clarity, structured writing, and real-life application examples are sufficient for scoring well.

5. Are case study questions important in Management?

Answer:
Yes. Case studies are increasingly emphasized, especially in 2023 and 2024 (e.g., XYZ Corp, DEF Logistics, Zomato, and empathy scenarios). These assess:

• Analytical thinking
• Understanding of real-world application
• Communication & HR process handling

6. How can I prepare effectively for Management short notes?

Answer:
Follow this approach:

• Practice 100-word answers using past paper questions
• Revise key theories (leadership, motivation, OB)
• Use acronyms and bullet points for clarity
• Refer to standard summaries (e.g., C4S notes, NCERT Business Studies, Ramesh Singh HRM sections)

7. What is the best strategy to revise Management before the exam?

• Answer:
• Focus on PYQ trends and syllabus mapping
• Revise definitions + real examples (LIC, IRDAI, Zomato, etc.)
• Prepare 20–25 model 100-word answers
• Practice 3–4 300-word essays on core themes
• Solve case studies & simulate mock writing sessions

List of Toppers from C4S Courses

Below is the list of students who have successfully cleared IRDAI 2024 and were part of our various programs:

Sl.No.	Name of the Topper of C4S	Toppers Talk with C4S
1	Oindrila Das	Watch Success Story with C4S
2	Snehal Rawat	Watch Success Story with C4S
3	Aniruddha Anil Belkar	Watch Success Story with C4S
4	Vineet Verma	Watch Success Story with C4S
5	Himakesh Raghu Ram	Watch Success Story with C4S