Concerns with Indian Civil Services Selections
Historical Attraction:
The civil services have long been seen as prestigious and secure, with significant attraction due to limited job opportunities in the past.
Current Obsession:
The quest for civil services positions has intensified, becoming a major national obsession despite economic liberalization providing alternative job opportunities.
Scandals: Instances of fraud, such as a trainee officer faking her identity, and tragic events, such as the deaths of three aspirants in Delhi, have exposed systemic problems.
Industry Exploitation: The coaching industry capitalizes on the high number of aspirants, despite the low success rate and many repeated attempts by candidates.
Systemic Problems: The bureaucracy, responsible for regulating coaching institutions and urban planning, is often criticized for its ineptitude and inability to prevent such disasters.
Suggestions
Reduce Age Limits:
Upper Age Limit: Lower the upper age limit for candidates from 34-35 years to 25 years, with a 2-year relaxation for special categories.
Number of Attempts: Restrict the number of attempts to three, with one additional attempt allowed for special categories.
Regulate Coaching Industry:
Implement measures to regulate the coaching industry, which thrives on the endless pursuit of candidates despite low success rates.
Reevaluate Public Policy:
Analyze the energy and resources spent on repeatedly attempting the civil services exams and consider policies that prevent such an unproductive race.
Broaden Career Perspectives:
Encourage younger generations to recognize that serving the nation can also be achieved through other professions, such as teaching, accounting, chemistry, and contracting.
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