UPSC Mains Exam 2024: Preparation tips by Rimita Saha (AIR 566) in UPSC CSE 2023

 With the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) declaring the results of UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination on July 1, candidates who have qualified the exam have started their final leg of preparation for the UPSC Civil Services (Mains) examination. A total of 14,625 candidates have qualified the preliminary examination. The candidates will be appearing in the UPSC Civil Services Mains examination scheduled to commence on September 20.

To help candidates with their final preparation, The Telegraph Online Edugraph spoke with Rimita Saha (AIR 566) in UPSC Civil Services Examination 2023, who shared her valuable insights on cracking the Civil Services Mains Examination.

Speaking on the main areas that should be in focus, Rimita advised candidates to focus more on revision and rigorous answer writing as most of the portion from General Studies have been covered during the Preliminary examination.

"The next two-three months should be primarily used for revision and rigorous answer writing. Few topics like world history, security etc which are solely in the Mains syllabus also need to be covered. Among all the subjects, optional, essay and ethics have lately proven to be the deal-makers. Importance should be given to Optional revision and answer-writing in these few weeks," said Rimita.

"Furthermore, practising the previous year questions is also of utmost significance. Limited resources with multiple revisions is the key. Practising answer-writing with a timer and writing two full-length mock tests in a single day is very important. This prepares the candidates for the D-day, where speed and accuracy prove to be the game-changers," she added.

Commenting on the language papers, which are qualifying in nature, she asked candidates to practice and revise the basic grammar books of Class 10 or Class 12.

"Any grammar book of 10th or 12th standard can be taken up for the papers, and thereafter, referring the previous year question papers, the type of questions can be identified which can then be revised from the book. Since the papers are qualifying in nature, very limited time should be dedicated for them," advised Rimita.

"For the GS papers, thorough revision and answer-writing is the key. One can take up any GS test series, where evaluation is done properly with detailed feedback. This will help the candidate to understand the mistakes or shortcomings in the answers and the places where improvement can be done. Referring to different past successful candidates can also help understand their approaches. Each question needs to be understood properly, broken down into sub-parts and each sub-part should be addressed separately. Proper sub-headings, relevant introduction and conclusion are important parameters of a good answer," she said. She added that including relevant diagrams, quotations, data and graphical representations can also help increase the marks.

The essay paper holds a lot of significance in the UPSC Mains Exam. Commenting on the approach students should have towards the paper, she said, "For the essay paper, there has been a shift of focus towards philosophical topics more lately. This sometimes becomes tricky to handle in the exam hall. First, reading a few essays of past successful candidates with good essay scores can be done. This provides an idea of how to frame an essay. Second, understanding the essence of the topic is very important."

"Brainstorming for the first few minutes before starting the essay is important. This helps to organise the thoughts in one’s mind and arrange them in order of priority. This also gives a proper structure to the essay. Lastly, including quotations and anecdotes can be done wherever relevant. The thought that the use of difficult words and jargon fetches more marks is a myth. Accurate expression of thoughts in a lucid manner is always appreciated," she added.

Optional subject is one of major deciding factors in UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination. Here's what Rimita had to say on preparation strategies to be followed for the optional subject.

"Before Prelims, at least one reading of the optional paper must be completed. After prelims, answer writing and revision are the primary strategies. Similar to GS, one can take up a test series from any institute and solve them in a time-bound manner. Furthermore, previous year's questions also need to be practised. At least 3-4 revisions of the optional paper need to be done before the Mains exam," she said.

Lastly, she advised candidates to focus on time management while preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination.

"While attempting the questions, one can allocate time for questions based on their marks. For example, 6-7 minutes for the 10-mark questions and 8-10 minutes for the 15-mark questions. This helps in keeping track of time during the exam. For the Ethics paper, it is suggested to attempt Section A first, followed by the case studies. One should try to attempt all questions without fail. This helps in maximising the marks in Mains, where even 1 mark can make a lot of difference," she said.

Avijit Das

Source: The Telegraph, 8/07/24

Expert Advice: Top 10 preparation strategies to ace UPSC Examination

 Clearing the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam is a challenging feat that requires dedication, perseverance, and a strong mental resolve. As one of the toughest competitive exams in India, the immense competition, vast syllabus, and rigorous preparation required for the UPSC exam can take a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of candidates. However, with the right coping mechanisms and effective strategies, you can navigate through the UPSC journey with confidence and increase your chances of success. In this article, we will discuss how to cope with the stress of clearing UPSC and provide you with valuable strategies to ace the exam.

1. Understand the exam

The first step to cope with the stress of clearing UPSC is to have a thorough understanding of the exam. Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, syllabus, and marking scheme. It will help you create a structured study plan and alleviate uncertainties about the exam.

2. Develop a study schedule

Time management is crucial when preparing for UPSC. So, create a realistic study schedule that allows you to take regular breaks and leisure activities. You should also break down the syllabus into smaller, manageable chunks, and allocate specific time slots for each topic to stay organized, reduce stress, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

3. Stay positive and motivated

Maintaining a positive mindset is essential throughout your UPSC journey. Aspirants must celebrate small victories, focus on their strengths, and learn from their failures. Furthermore, they should surround themselves with positive affirmations and motivational resources like books, videos, and success stories to keep their spirits high.

4. Join a study group or coaching center

It would be great if candidates join a study group or enroll in a coaching center that can provide them with a structured learning environment and the opportunity to interact with fellow aspirants. Collaborating with like-minded individuals, sharing knowledge, and discussing doubts can enhance their understanding and reduce the feeling of isolation.

5. Take mock tests and analyze the performance

Regularly taking mock tests is a vital part of the UPSC examination preparation. It helps you assess your progress, identify areas of improvement, and familiarize yourself with the exam format. So, every aspirant should analyze their performance in mock tests, work on their weaknesses, and develop effective test-taking strategies accordingly.

6. Stay updated with current affairs

UPSC places significant emphasis on current affairs. Stay updated with the latest national and international news through newspapers, magazines, online portals, and television. Make notes of important events, government policies, and socio-economic issues to incorporate them into your preparation.

7. Focus on conceptual clarity

Understanding concepts thoroughly is more important than rote learning. UPSC tests your analytical and problem-solving abilities rather than mere memorization. Hence, focus on building a strong foundation by studying from reliable sources, referring to standard textbooks, and engaging in critical thinking.

8. Revision and time management in the exam

In the final days leading up to the exam, you should prioritize revision over new topics. Revise key concepts, practice answer writing, and solve previous years' question papers. Develop time management skills to ensure that you complete the exam within the allocated time frame.

9. Seek support from family and friends

Surround yourself with a supportive network of family and friends who understand your aspirations and challenges. Share your concerns, discuss your progress, and seek guidance when needed. Their encouragement and emotional support will help you stay motivated during challenging times.

10. Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques

Lastly, stress can take a toll on your mental and physical well-being. Practicing mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga will help you calm your mind and relax your body. Besides, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet also play a vital role in reducing stress levels.

Clearing the UPSC examination requires not only hard work and dedication but also effective strategies to cope with stress. So, by following the above-listed valuable tips, you can overcome the stress and emerge successful. Remember, it's not just about clearing the exam but also enjoying the process and developing skills that will serve you well in your future endeavors.

Sriram Srirangam

Source: The Telegraph, 17/06/23

Code of conduct for civil servants: A review

 

While the being a civil servant comes with many perks and benefits, it also brings with it its own limitations and various rules surrounding an officer's conduct.

Since 2018, over 10 lakh candidates have applied each year to sit in the Civil Service Aptitude Test (C-SAT). This year, 11.52 lakh candidates applied, and after three rounds of examinations, 933 were finally selected.

While the craze to enter the civil services was slightly tempered post-liberalisation, over the past decade it is well and truly back. Candidates often spend years and lakhs of rupees in coaching, attempting to crack the extremely competitive exam. Of late, several successful candidates have even appeared for the exams after a few years in the private sector.

Today, CSE results attract serious media scrutiny, with toppers even making national news. However, getting selected is just the beginning of one’s life in service – a life which will have several limitations as per law.

We list here some basic rules a civil servant needs to follow, and the limitations they are placed under.

First, some details about the civil services. 

Successful applicants can join a number of services depending on their rank and personal preferences.

There are three All India Services – the Indian Administrative Service, the Indian Police Service and the Indian Forest Service – which are selected by the central government with officers allotted to various state cadres. The Centre then gets a certain percentage of officers from each state on central deputation. These bureaucrats work directly for the Centre. All India Services are governed by Article 312 of the Constitution of India.

Other services are called Central Civil Services. These services are under the central government itself with no state cadre system. They include services such as the Indian Foreign Service, the Indian Revenue Service, Customs and Central Excise Service and several others.

Two sets of largely overlapping rules.

There are two sets of rules for civil servants – one for All India Services and the other for Central Civil Services. Specially designed Conduct Rules govern an officer’s behaviour and conduct.

The AIS Conduct Rules, 1968 and CCS Conduct Rules, 1964 are mostly similar. These were framed based on recommendations from a committee constituted by then Minister of Home Affairs Lal Bahadur Shashtri in 1962. This Committee on Prevention of Corruption was headed by K Santhanam, Member of Rajya Sabha (who also happenned to be a former editor of The Indian Express).

Some rules are vague, some more specific.

The Conduct Rules cover a wide range of issues, from the ambiguous idea of personal integrity to more specific actions.

For instance, Rule 3(1) states that “Every member of the Service shall at all times maintain absolute integrity and devotion to duty and shall do nothing which is unbecoming of a member of the Service.” This rule is purposefully vague and can be applied to individuals in cases of any kind of wrongdoing, even if the allegations are not covered under any more specific rules. For example, while promotion of casteism is not covered under any specific Conduct Rules, casteist behaviour can be interpreted as “unbecoming of a member of the Service” under Rule 3(1).

On the other hand, Rule 4(1) of the AIS Conduct Rules is more specific. It states, “No member of the Service shall use his position or influence directly or indirectly to secure employment for any member of his family with any private undertaking or Non- Government Organisation.”

Members not allowed to be part of, assist political parties.

Rule 5(1) states, “No member of the Service shall be a member of, or be otherwise associated with, any political party or any organization which takes part in politics, nor shall he take part in, or subscribe in aid of, or assist in any other manner, any political movement or political activity.”

5(4) states, “No member of the Service shall canvas or otherwise interfere with, or use his influence in connection with, or take part in, an election to any legislature or local authority.”

While members can hold personal political beliefs, these rules restrict the degree to which they can act on them.

Similar restrictions also there on expressing personal opinion.

Rule 7 of AIS Rules states, “No member of the Service shall, in any radio broadcast or communication over any public media or in any document published anonymously, pseudonymously or in his own name or in the name of any other person or in any communication to the press or in any public utterance, make any statement of fact or opinion,— Which has the effect of an adverse criticism of any current or recent policy or action of the Central Government or a State Government; or which is capable of embarrassing the relations between the Central Government and any State Government; or which is capable of embarrassing the relations between the Central Government and the Government of any Foreign State.”

However, civil servants are allowed to express their opinion on official files and other official documents and can even talk to the media during field postings. What they can tell the media, though, is restricted to their job or some specific event/issue. Personal beliefs on wider issues are not to be aired.

Taking dowry is banned but seemingly common.

Dowry is an evil which afflicts all of society. Civil servants are no exception.

Often, once selected to the services, officers receive numerous marriage offers. Influential families, including big political ones, covet civil servants as husbands for their daughters and are willing to pay a big price to win their hand in marriage. A civil servant’s job security, status and perks received plays a major role in inflating dowry demands. Officials from the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) even receive queries to provide contact details of candidates selected.

At the same time, civil servants and their families too are willing to receive a big dowry.

But as far as rules are concerned, both giving and receiving dowry is strictly prohibited. Rule 11 (1-A) of the AIS Rules on “Giving or taking of dowry” states, “No member of the Service shall— (i) give or take or abet the giving or taking of dowry; or (ii) demand, directly or indirectly, from the parents or guardian of a bride or bridegroom, as the case may be, any dowry.”

In fact, any “big” gift a civil servant receives needs to be reported.

Rule 11(1) states, “A member of the service may accept gifts from his near relatives or from his personal friends having no official dealings with them, on occasions such as wedding, anniversaries, funerals and religious functions when the making of gifts is in conformity with the prevailing religious and social practice, but he shall make a report to the Government if the value of such gift exceeds Rs.25,000.”

The threshold of Rs 25,000 was last fixed in 2015.

Rules amended and added from time to time.

While Conduct Rules penned in the 1960s are still being followed, these are never static, with updates made from time to time.

For instance, with regard to Rule 5(1), the government, from time to time, determines whether a particular organisation is political or not. Interestingly, such clarifications have been repeatedly made about the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) with rules stating that its activities are political in nature. Notably, while the RSS itself claims to be non-political, even BJP governments at the Centre have not changed its categorisation.

The Narendra Modi government added a few sub-rules in August 2014. For instance, the following was added to the Conduct Rules: “Every member of the Service shall maintain:- high ethical standards, integrity and honesty; political neutrality; accountability and transparency; responsiveness to the public, particularly to the weaker section; courtesy and good behavior with the public” among other things.

The Modi government also added that “Every member of the Service shall maintain integrity in public service; take decisions solely in public interest and use or cause to use public resources efficiently, effectively and economically; declare any private interests relating to his public duties and take steps to resolve any conflicts in a way that protects the public interest; not place himself under any financial or other obligations to any individual or organisation which may influence him in the performance of his official duties; not misuse his position as civil servant and not take decisions in order to derive financial or material benefits for himself, his family or his friends; act with fairness and impartiality and not discriminate against anyone, particularly the poor and the under-privileged sections of society; perform and discharge his duties with the highest degree of professionalism and dedication to the best of his abilities”.

Similarly, when allegations were made that only orally orders were being issued to subordinate officials, in 1979, the Janata Party government added that, “The direction of the official superior shall ordinarily be in writing. Where the issue of oral direction becomes unavoidable, the official superior shall confirm it in writing immediately thereafter.”

In 1998, the United Front government added that “No member of the Service shall employ to work any child below the age of 14 years.”

Officers are covered under the rules as soon they join training.

As soon as candidates are allotted a particular service and join training which is part of their probation period, they become members of that service and are thus covered by these rules. There are also certain rules which continue to apply post retirement as well.

Provisions for heavy penalties there, but difficult to police.

Transgressions can attract two kinds of penalties — major and minor. Major penalties can include “dismissal” from the service as well.

Besides these conduct rules, there is also the Prevention of Corruption Act (POCA). However, action on corruption in India is based less on intelligence and more on complaints. While anonymous complaints are not entertained, complaints with name and details of complainants too hardly ever reach the proper forum. Fora where such complaints can be made include the Central Vigilance Commission, Lokpal and other investigation agencies.

Written by Shyamlal Yadav

Source: Indian Express, 26/05/23

UPSC IAS Exam: Busting five major myths about the preparation

 Millions appear for the Civil Services examination of the Union Public Services Commission every year. Aspirants begin preparation as school kids. Their parents are even more enthusiastic and anxious. That is the brand power of the IAS.

There are more candidates who fear appearing for the Civil Services examination of the UPSC than the ones who actually appear. The reason has more to do with mythology and scare than reality. Let's pick five of the biggest myths and see the true content of each one of them. Are they half-baked or exaggerated or deliberately circulated to generate a sense of awe among the aspirants? It is the need of the hour to critically examine the folklore so that the aspirant is unburdened and their preparation gains true momentum.

Top 5 Misconceptions Centring Around UPSC IAS Exam

The top 5 myths that a genuine eager-beaver needs to dispel before the UPSC IAS exam are as follows:

Myth #1: It is the hardest and mother of all exams.

People are given to understand that the civil service exam syllabus has no limitations and is the most difficult to tackle. It tests at the objective, subjective, and personality levels. A vast syllabus cutting across natural and social sciences which includes the current developments is unheard of for any other examination in the country. Not even the IITs. Take, for example, quantum computing; the aspirant needs to know the concept and the Government initiatives. Take nuclear fusion; the latest breakthrough in the US needs to be understood along with the conventional concept. But it is interesting. There is a lot of literature on it. Indian newspapers are second to none and the clarity with which these developments come across in the media is exciting. So toughness converts to excitement and challenge.

Myth #2: Aspirants need to know everything but the kitchen sink.

Undeniably, the UPSC IAS exam syllabus is vast as indicated above, but that does not mean you have to be a walking encyclopedia to crack the exam. There is a method in the madness. There are thresholds - both in the range and the depth. NCERT books are the base and newspapers are the superstructure. Post-graduation books are toxic for the examination. For any topic to figure on the radar, it should be resoundingly important that any good graduate student knows about it. The key point is that the UPSC is a generalist exam, necessitating a broad conceptual mastery of all areas and topics listed in the syllabus. Threshold and range are everything.

Myth #3: It is a game of luck!

As in life, so in the UPSC. Luck is everywhere. Even after one puts in all that she/he is capable of, there is a chance for luck. Seeing so many aspirants, one has to admit that luck separates two equally brilliant aspirants. But, bad luck does not last. Aspirants do get to their mark of ability and sweat. So how to beat luck or to put it another way, how to invite luck? Luck can be deserved by working hard on a strategy based on previous papers with conceptual clarity and ambition. Ambition in terms of learning a little more clearly and a little more in terms of detail, to be ahead of the competition.

No one ever has been denied entry into civil services purely by luck. Work smart and hard so that you are ready for luck.

Myth #4: You should have a strong command of the English language.

Far from true. UPSC like any other credible and authentic body rewards clarity, simplicity, and effectiveness. It is possible with functional English. Who does not speak basic English in India among the ambitious? English is as much an Indian language today as anybody else's. The preliminary exam may not need so much English as one needs to tick the right code in the multiple-choice questions. In CSAT, however, there is a need for some English. The main exam to requires nice presentation skills. Interviews are available in vernaculars even if one chooses English for the Mains examination and vice versa. Simply put, the medium of instruction is only a vehicle for communicating your ideas and not a main factor in the success of your examination. Rest assured, English is the last and least of the hurdles.

Myth #5: You need to study for extensively long hours to pass the exam.

The number of hours that one should study has been another item of shock and awe. Most say 12-18 hours a day and Sunday hardly enter the dictionary. It could be one of those carefully orchestrated myths once again. How many hours one studies is purely a personal choice. However, 6-8 hours is the bottom line. The excitement about becoming a civil servant and the nature of knowledge one needs to acquire; along with lucid study, material propels the student to study limitlessly. But that is another matter: Purely a personal affair with prep. The need is a regular 8-hour regime, with Sunday excluded for renewal. Many people pass the examination even if they are working full-time. It is a matter of efficiency that comes about with a sense of confidence and urgency.

To conclude, try to ignore all the myths, go for your goal with a positive attitude, and have a proper stage-wise preparation plan to clear the exam and get your dream job.

Source: The Telegraph, 13/02/23

Cracking UPSC is about staying consistent

 The mantra for cracking the UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE), one of India’s most competitive and prestigious examinations, is synonymous with consistent efforts, dedication and utmost focus.

Many UPSC toppers have reiterated that the success behind cracking the exam is not just intelligence and hard work. It is essential for the candidates to also maintain focus and consistency for long periods, often years.

It may be easy for candidates to stay consistent for a week, a month, or even three months. If your target is the UPSC 2024 examination, you need to maintain that level of consistency for one and a half years. And to help you with tips, we have compiled 7 points to keep in mind while charting your preparation strategy.

1. Setting goals with timelines
The first step in this process is to set your goal and establish the timelines. For example, a 6-month-period is probably too short for a beginner to successfully crack the UPSC. Instead, the candidate should focus on pushing his or her timeline to the next year. Juggling additional tasks together can be overburdening and act counterproductive to staying consistent. Instead, candidates should prioritize tasks and focus on finishing one before moving to another.

2. Benefits of a broad strategy
Note that making a timetable and strategy is something that requires expertise and skill. Know that your specific strategy or timetable will work for you as some past ranker’s strategies worked for them. Your strategy must incorporate all the factors and variables that have an impact on your preparation. This includes the time needed on a daily/weekly basis for preparation, learning style, and financial factors like coaching fees, rent, etc. One also must break down the more than year-long study preparation into small, measurable, and manageable chunks. Do not feel shy to ask for help when it is needed. In case, if you don't have anyone to help you with it, get a UPSC mentor’s guidance and expertise.

3. Evaluate your learning

Preparing for the UPSC CSE exams needs long dedicated hours of studying and reading. UPSC preparation is not just about reading alone. You must analyse, retain, and learn how to utilize whatever you are reading, something which is similar to answer writing. Remember that you can improve only what you can measure. So, monitoring your progress and evaluating whatever you have covered through tests becomes essential. Prelims mock, Mains answer writing and discussion with mentors and peers must be incorporated from the first week of your preparation.

4. Create a feedback-improvement loop
You need to be accountable not only to yourself but to that person or system for the completion of a specific task. UPSC mentors, in many institutes, establish such a system through which your planning, target setting, monitoring, evaluation, and feedback-improvement loop is systematized into one. They will use their priceless experience to help you not divert from your goals. Thus, you should outsource accountability to other people and ace your preparation.

5. Focus on daily improvement
UPSC success is all about small measurable gains over a period of time. Remember, consistency always beats intensity. Setting new goals is easy. However, displaying consistent improvement is a daily grind. So, plan and select your suitable life-saving hacks to stay consistent with your daily routines and targets.

6. Avoid prolonged Isolation
You will get exhausted, and feel burnt out in just a matter of a few weeks. Do not wait to recharge your battery when you are fully drained out. Incorporate breaks in your UPSC timetable with exercise, extra-curricular activities, or any physical activity. Preparing with a group of highly motivated individuals while having a common goal will only take you forward and make you more focused on your goal. At the same time, you won’t even feel exhausted.

7. Maintaining emotional stability
Another perspective towards UPSC success is staying emotionally fit during this 1.5 year long journey. The biggest hurdle in achieving your highest level of consistency is the emotional bit of it. Every now and then, there is a tendency to surround yourself with negative thoughts like fear or depression. Instead of resolving negative thoughts and emotional issues like fear or depression, many avoid these. However, you have to understand that ignoring emotional troubles will only worsen the problems. It is time to rely on your UPSC mentors, teachers, friends, and family. Talk to them and spend some quality time with them.

Source: educationtimes.com, 14/01/23

UPSC is more about conceptual clarity than just mugging up, says expert

 UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is without a doubt, one of the most highly-competitive and prestigious tests in the country. Every year, several lakhs of aspiring candidates fill out the applications for different exams under the UPSC, but only a few succeed in cracking it.

The UPSC exams’ uncertain nature, its mammoth syllabus size, along with the fact that there are only around 1,000 vacancies in total, often make preparing for it a very daunting experience for candidates.

Moreover, the exam has three stages - preliminary exam (objective), main exam (written), and interview (personality test). Therefore, just mugging up the several topics and points around the syllabus is not going to be enough for success in it.

Rather, candidates must prepare for it thoroughly understanding all concepts, and replicate their learnings in the actual examinations to do well.

Here are some expert tips for candidates to follow:

1. SCANNING CORE SYLLABUS & DEVELOP EXAM STRATEGIES

One of the biggest challenges of the UPSC CSE is that candidates need to go through an extensive list of topics in various fields to have a chance of success.

However, while it may seem like a mountain to climb, proper planning through the help of scanning the entire syllabus goes a long way in preparing for the exams.

Scanning the UPSC syllabus helps you in understand your core strength areas as well as the things that you need to work on. Once, you’ve understood that you can follow it up by checking previous years’ question papers. This will help you in knowing where you stand in terms of learning and how much time you need to prepare for the exam.

2. DEVELOP A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING OF TOPICS THROUGH RIGHT SOURCE MATERIALS

Memory power is indeed a key ingredient in cracking the UPSC CSE examinations. However, it is equally important to be able to comprehend each topic and explain it in proper detail under the strict word limit and time restrictions.

Often, candidates rely on many guides and handbooks to study for the exams during the early stages. Instead, you should refer to standard textbooks to develop a proper understanding of each topic.

The road to UPSC success starts with picking suitable source material, as in the case of the school-level NCERT books. You should start with these books to have a comprehensive understanding of the basics. Once you have mastered it, you are free to move to other source materials.

3. PRACTISE WRITING

Just reading for the exams will not cut it if you want to crack UPSC. You must focus on your writing skills as much as your reading. Attaining high marks in the Main exams is dependent on your writing ability. You not only need to write fast to attempt all questions, but the writing also needs to be grammatically correct.

You don’t need to be a literary genius to have excellent writing. All you need to do is to practice writing in such a manner that you are able to smartly explain, discuss, and elaborate answers to complex questions in simple and jargon-free language.

If you feel your handwriting is difficult to read, you must practice writing at least 500 words on a daily basis from the get-go. Later, you can start attempting questions from the previous years' papers and mock tests.

4. GAIN COMPREHENSIVE KNOWLEDGE OF THE INDIAN CONSTITUTION

Candidates appearing for the UPSC Mains examination are required to have a thorough knowledge of different fields like history, general knowledge, politics, and others.

To secure high marks in the Prelims, Mains, and even the interview, it becomes crucial for candidates to have a good understanding of the Indian Constitution.

There are around 450 Articles in the Indian Constitution, and while you don’t need to remember all of them, it is very essential to have a clear-cut understanding of all the political concepts to ace UPSC.

The candidates must be thoroughly briefed about the nature and salient features of the Indian Constitution, which includes Fundamental Rights, judicial review and activism, federalism, Separation of Powers, and others.

A clear understanding of Article 1, Article 3, Article 14, Article 19, Article 21, Article 25, Article 32, Article 51A, Article 54, Article 55, Article 72, Article 161, and Article 280, is crucial before attempting the exams.

5. DEVICE EFFECTIVE LEARNING & REVISION TECHNIQUES

The UPSC CSE syllabus can often be intimidating for any candidate. Often, it takes strict and dedicated long hours of studying for more than a year for candidates to cover the entire syllabus.

However, even when you’ve managed to finish it, you need to follow it up with timely revisions to not forget what you learned. This can be very physically and mentally taxing, and therefore, it becomes crucial for all candidates to devise techniques around it.

This can be done by developing successful shortcuts wherein you seek the best method of summarizing long texts, making quick notes, and explaining them.

Moreover, you can also follow a timetable, set daily targets, assign strict revisions daily, and also practice answer writing for prelims and mains every now and then.

Source: Telegraph, 29/12/22

UPSC Examination: 24 Civil Services Covered by National Level Test

 Some of the most popular competitive exams in India are the ones conducted for recruitment to the various civil services, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). These services have consistently been among young people’s top career choices across the nation. With a passing percentage of just 0.1%, it is one of the most difficult competitive examinations in the nation in terms of structure. In spite of that, a growing number of people with professional degrees are choosing positions in Civil Services.

The foundation of the Indian government is civil services, covering the main offices in charge of all the significant divisions that oversee state and national administration. UPSC conducts a National Level Exam for 24 services under the Central & State Government of India. The candidates who pass these exams are placed in the Indian Administrative Services (IAS), Indian Police Services (IPS), Indian Revenue Services (IRS), and Indian Foreign Services (IFS), as well as some others.

Candidates are assigned to various Services based on their UPSC exam ranks. Once assigned, a candidate is then appointed to a specific role within that department.

Types of Civil Services

Clearing the civil service exam (CSE), one can apply for three different types of jobs which encompass a wide range of prestigious and in-demand services. These three categories are:

1. All India Civil Services
2. Group ‘A’ Civil Services
3. Group ‘B’ Civil Services

Irrespective of the category, however, all of the posts for which the UPSC Exam is conducted are highly regarded and sought after in the country. Let’s dig a little deeper and find out what are positions available in the above-mentioned major UPSC categories.

All India Civil Services

There are three important posts under the All India Civil Services which are as follows:

• Indian Administrative Services

Primary among the All India Services is Indian Administrative Services. Candidates who are chosen to serve as IAS officers are in charge of creating and carrying out government policies as well as upholding law and order in their region.

• Indian Police Services

In charge of law and order in the country, candidates who are appointed as IPS officers receive their training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad. Senior posts in the police force are held by IPS officers. RAW, IB, and CBI, are some other agencies or departments where IPS officers are appointed to senior posts.

• Indian Forest Services (IFoS)

The IFoS is dedicated to the sustainable management and protection of natural resources, particularly forests, in the country. Director General (DG) of Forests is the highest title earned by IFoS personnel working for the Central Government. At the state level, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests is the highest rank for IFoS personnel. Additionally, IFoS officials are hired to work for a variety of other organisations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Group ‘A’ Services

There are 13 positions under UPSC Group ‘A’ Services. Check out the list below:

• Indian Foreign Services

IFS officers are in charge of managing India's foreign affairs. In the course of their careers, these officials may be promoted to the positions of High Commissioner, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of India at the UN, and Foreign Secretary.

• Indian Audit & Account Services (IA & AS)

IA&AS officers (CAG) work under the Comptroller and Auditor General. Financial auditing of the central government, state governments, and public sector organisations are part of the duties of IA&AS officials.

• Indian Civil Accounts Services (ICAS)

Candidates are chosen for ICAS for the Ministry of Finance. The Controller General of Accounts leads the ICAS cadre.

• Indian Corporate Law Services (ICLS)

Managing India's corporate sector is the Indian Corporate Law Service's main goal. To successfully carry out their duties during their employment, the ICLS cadre receives training in a variety of subjects, including law, economics, finance, and accounting.

• Indian Defence Accounts Services (IDAS)

The Ministry of Defense oversees this cadre. The Border Roads Organization (BRO), the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), and the Ordnance Factories all employ IDAS officers. An IDAS officer's primary responsibility is to audit defence accounts. The Indian Defence Accounts Service is led by the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA).

• Indian Defence Estates Services (IDES)

The National Institute of Defence Estates in New Delhi provides training for candidates hired under the Indian Defence Estates Service. The management of the defence establishment's land and military bases is the responsibility of IDES officials.

• Indian Information Services (IIS)

By acting as a channel between the government and the general public, the Indian Information Service personnel inform the public about government actions and pronouncements. The Department of Information and Broadcasting oversees this group.

• Indian Ordnance Factories Services (IOFS)

The management of a sizable number of the Indian Ordnance Factories that produce defence gear, weapons, and ammunition, falls within the domain of the Indian Ordnance Factories Services. The Ministry of Defense is responsible for this cadre.

• Indian Communication Finance Services (ICFS)

Candidates who are hired for the ICFS receive training at the National Institute of Financial Management in Faridabad. This cadre is in charge of rendering accounting and financial services to the Indian Posts and Telecommunication Departments.

• Indian Postal Services (IPoS)

Candidates selected for IPoS are appointed as higher-grade officers in India Post. Indian Post Service, which manages India Post, is in charge of offering a variety of services, including traditional postal services, banking, payments for old-age pensioners and MGNREGA wages, as well as e-commerce services.

• Indian Railway Accounts Services (IRAS)

Candidates selected for IRAS must complete a two-year training programme before joining their post at one of the following: the National Academy of Direct Taxes in Nagpur, the Railway Staff College in Vadodra, specialised training facilities, and additional construction organisations, divisions, and manufacturing facilities of the Central and Zonal Railways.

• Indian Railway Personnel Services (IRPS)

The National Academy of Direct Taxes, the RCVP Noronha Academy of Administration, and the Dr Marri Channa Reddy Human Resource Development Institute all offer training to IRPS cadres after they are received at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy Of Administration (LBSNAA). The National Academy of Indian Railways at Vadodra offers the last phase of training. The Human Resources of Indian Railways are managed by IRPS officers.

• Indian Railway Traffic Services (IRTS)

The IRTS serves as a link between the business and public sectors and between railroads. IRTS personnel oversee Indian Railways' operational and commercial divisions and are in charge of income generation.

• Indian Revenue Services (IRS)

The National Academy of Customs, Excise, and Narcotics in Faridabad and NADT, Nagpur, respectively, are where IRS personnel receive their subsequent training after completing their basic training at LBSNAA. The Indian Revenue Services operate under the Ministry of Finance. Direct and indirect taxes are gathered by this body.

• Indian Trade Services (ITS)

The Ministry of Commerce oversees the Indian Trade Services. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), which is in charge of this cadre, oversees India's foreign trade and commerce.

• Railway Protection Force (RPF)

The RPF is a paramilitary organisation under the Ministry of Railways. Their main goal is to provide security and protection to passengers, assets, and property on the Indian Railways.

Group ‘B’ Services

Here is a list of positions under the Group ‘B’ Services of the UPSC:

• Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Services

The Defense Secretary serves as the executive director of this department which reports to the Ministry of Defence. The Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Services offers administrative, and policy formulation and implementation support to The Indian Armed Forces and Inter-Services Organisations.

• DANICS

DANICS, which stands for Delhi, Andaman & Nicobar Islands Civil Services, is a department of the Indian government. Officers in charge of the administration of the Union Territories form this cadre.

• DANIPS

NCT of Delhi, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman & Diu, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli Police Service are collectively referred to as DANIPS. The law and order at Delhi and other Union Territories of India are under the control of this Indian federal police agency.

• Pondicherry Civil Service

Unlike the other states, recruitment to the civil services of the union territory of Puducherry is also conducted via the national UPSC exam. This cadre is known as the Pondicherry Civil Services.

• Pondicherry Police Service

The Pondicherry Police Service is the police force in charge of law and order in the Union Territory of Puducherry. The Government of Puducherry's Department of Home Affairs is responsible for running this service. The Director-General of Police (DGP) is in charge of the Pondicherry Police Service.

In India, civil services play a significant role in enforcing laws and carrying out policies. They are essential to the Indian system of governance and their function has evolved over time. The quantum of work has also increased as a result of the current economy's rapid growth. Be it at the central or the state level, the Civil Services play a key role. And armed with this list of positions, you are now better informed as to which cadre you want to aspire for when you prepare for the UPSC examination.

Source: The Telegraph, 6/08/22