Name: Vijay Kumar Mantri
Roll. No: 61511
Interview: CS 2006
Date: 12.4.07
Time: 4:00 pm
Chairman of the Interview panel: Shri. Subir Datta (Retd. IAS)
Description: There were 7 panels (1.Shri. Subir Datta, 2.Prof. D.P. Agarwal, 3. Air
Marshal (Retd.) Satish Govind Inamdar, 4. Ms. Parveen Talha, 5. Dr. Bhure Lal, 6.
Ms. Chokila Iyer, 7. K. Roy Paul). Each panel was interviewing 9 candidates per day
(5 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon). After entering UPSC and finishing all the
formalities, we were very curious to know whose panel we had got. Then came the
news that ours was Subir Datta’s panel. I was the last person to be interviewed.
When my turn came at around 4:00pm, there were only 3 people left in the waiting
hall. I was guided to the Subir Datta’s room and asked to wait outside for 5 minutes.
After 5 minutes, bell rang and the person told me to go inside.
As I entered I could see a lady member, hence I wished her first. Then I went to
my chair and wished the chairman and other male members. The member to my left
(M3) asked me to sit. I took the chair and thanked him.
TABLE
Entrance
VK
M2
M1
M3
M4
C
C – Chairman (Subir Datta)
M1 – Member 1 (Lady), M2 – Member 2, M3 – Member 3, M4 – Member 4.
VK – Vijay Kumar Mantri
C: (Looking at me and the photo – photos of all the candidates of that panel will be
collected and sent to the panel) You are Mr. Vijay Kumar Mantri,…..working in BHEL
since Aug 2003,….done B. Tech in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Madras.
VK: Yes Sir (after each detail)
C: You are from Parkal, Is it a coastal area?
VK: Sir, it is a land locked area. It is in Warangal district, which is in northern part of
Andhra Pradesh.
C: It is a Naxal area…very dangerous place….
VK: Sir, it is not very dangerous for common people.
C: If you become IAS or IPS, then it will be dangerous for you?
VK: Sir, I will take that as an opportunity to eliminate the Naxal problem.
C: What opportunity??@#$?, it is very dangerous…. (he was talking to himself….I just
smiled)
C: You are working in BHEL…which area are you working?
VK: Sir, I am working in Heat Exchangers Engineering department at BHEL
Hyderabad. My job is to design Heat Exchangers.
C: Heat Exchangers??
VK: Sir, Heat Exchangers are auxiliaries in power plant, like Oil Cooler, Generator Air
Coolers and Exciter Air Coolers….
C: How do you design Heat Exchangers?
VK: Sir, this Heat Exchanger is a Shell & Tube Heat Exchanger and the oil will be
cooled….
C: (interrupted) Explain to me as if you explain to a layman?
VK: Sir, there will be oil in bearings for cooling and lubricating purpose. This is like
grease and …
C: (interrupted) By what is it cooled?
VK: Sir it is cooled using water.
C: Grease cant flow…!!
VK: Yes Sir, grease cant flow. But to make it clear, I have taken the example of
grease.
C: But you shouldn’t make wrong statements in order to make it clear..(Actually I
didn’t make a wrong statement; I just compared oil with grease. I thought it was a
trap and didn’t argue further.)
VK: Yes Sir,…(ready to proceed with explaining, but he asked the next question)
C: OK, you participated in Athletics. What are the events you have participated?
VK: Sir, I participated in 100m running and road race from my hostel in B.Tech.
C: Road Race?
VK: Sir, it is 7.5km marathon race around our campus.
C: But 100m and road race are not compatible!!
VK: Sir, there was no better participation from our hostel. So, I participated.
C: Then you must have lost.
VK: Sir I could finish….
C: (Interrupted) Did you finish in first three places?
VK: No Sir. (…Participation is more important than winning…)
C: I don’t know your philosophy, Mathematics and Mythology…..so, let me ask you in
Current Affairs….You must have been reading news paper since you started
preparing Civil Services…So, you must have read about inflation in recent
news…what is inflation?
VK: Sir, inflation is the increase in rates of commodities comparing to the rates last
year same week.
C: what are its indicators?
VK: Sir CPI and WPI.
C: What is the difference between CPI and WPI? Is it the basket or method of
measurement?
VK: Sir, it is the basket.
C: What causes inflation?
VK: Sir, there are two causes for inflation, one is on supply side and other is on
demand side?
C: What is the demand side reason?
VK: Sir, demand is growing up due to increase in living standards.
C: But, there are still 25 crores of people living below poverty line???
VK: Sir, there is an overall increase in living standards.
C: OK, what is the supply side reason?
VK: Sir, Supply is not meeting to the increase in demand and there are also crop
failures.
C: What are the steps that government has taken?
VK: Sir, recently government has increased CRR, but that only can solve the problem
on demand side….
C: (interrupted) What is it doing on supply side?
VK: Sir, government is concentrating on agriculture to increase output. It is also
curtailing exports of sugar to meet domestic needs…
C: Is it curtailing exports of sugars?
VK: Yes sir, logically it should curtail exports to alleviate inflation…
C: OK, take example of wheat, what is that government doing?
VK: Sir, we are importing wheat to meet domestic shortage.
Then, he made eye contact with next member (M1) to proceed.
M1: There is a relation between philosophy and mathematics….(pause)
VK: Ma’am, Philosophy and Mathematics are both fundamental and widely
applicable….
M1: OK, let me finish my question….blah …..blah….what is the relation between
mathematics and philosophy that can be implied from ancient literature?
VK: Ma’am, there is a sloka in one of the upanisads (actually from
Isavasyopanisad….but I couldn’t recollect there). It says:
Om
purnamadah purnamidam purnat purnmudachchate I
Purnasya purnamadaya purnmevavasisyate II
Ma’am from mathmetical point of view it means: purnam means infinity. So, when
infinity is substracted from infinity still infinity remains.
From philosophical point of view it means: when infinite Brahman manifests as
infinite atman and jagat still Brahman remains infinite.
Thus philosophy and mathematics inspired each other and drew inspiration from
same source.
M1: blah…blah….(she was further discussing about it.)…What is the relation
between mythology and philosophy? What are their sources? Can you explain?
VK: Ma’am, mythology is body of literature, which explains about the lives of divine
personalities and divine incarnations. This body of literature consists of 4 vedas, 18
Puranas, Ramayana & Mahabharata. Philosophy mainly derives its source from
upanisads and gita which are parts of Vedas and Mahabharata respectively. So,
Ma’am, I believe that Indian Mythology and Philosophy drew from same source and
always had relationship.
M1: In ancient days, we observe that lot of importance was being given to humanities
than the sciences. Now the priorities changed and the atrs subjects are being looked
down…..blah….blah…why?
VK: Ma’am, I believe that there is a growth of materialism. Industrilisation has
science subjects as its base. Materialism requires science subjects to prosper.
Humanities subjects caters to metaphysical aspirations of a person which are losing
value (and further explained about it).
M1: This is my last question,…you said you listen to music….what music?
VK: Ma’am, when I was in IIT, I used to listen to lot of english pop songs, but now I
listen to Old telugu and Kishore kumar songs.
M1: What do you like in music?
VK: Ma’am, I like melody and …. Lyrics.
M1: OK, you actually listen to the song.
VK: yes Ma’am.
M2: Mr. Mantri! You read mythology….so, you must have read Ramamyana and
Mahabharata. Which one you think is more relevant to present society?
VK: Sir, I think Mahabharata is more relevant to present society. Ramayana depicts
about dharma. But, Mahabharata depicts about dharma, artha, kama and moksa.
M2: Mr. Mantri! Do you think kurukshetra war could have been avoided?
VK: Sir, I think Kurukshetra war couldn’t have been avoided. Because, the very
purpose of Krishnavatara was punishing dushta, that is killing of Kauravas and their
vicked allies. Krishna plotted everything in such a way that war happens and all the
Kauravas are killed.
M2: Mr. Mantri! What is your opinion about Bhishma?
VK: Sir, I think he is a great personality in Mahabharata.
M2: Do you support him not doing anything to stop Draupathi vastrapaharana.
VK: Sir, not actually. But, he is very strict to vows and he vowed to his father that he
would protect and support the king of Hasthinapura. I think that is why he couldn’t
do anything to stop Draupathi vastrapahara.
M2:Mr. Mantri! Do you support BCCI’s decision of capping endorsements of players?
VK:Sir, I don’t support BCCI’s decision of capping endorsements of players. These
endorsements have been there for long time. Two bad matches threw india out of
world cup. This shouldn’t make BCCI take such decision. Moreover, if you take
sachin as example, he spends just one day for each advirtisement and he doesn’t
even do dubbing. He has a separate manager to take care of his endorsements. I
think they should have freedom.
M2: You said that you will consider civil servant job as an opportunity to alleviate
naxal problem. How do you approach to that problem?
VK: Sir, The philosophy of naxalism is based on Mao philosophy. Mao asks them to
do guerilla war by fish swimming. As a fish swims in water, naxal swim through
villages and wage guerilla war. If we remove this support, then we can succeed in
alleviating in naxal problem.
M2: All the terrorists, militents and naxalites do fish swimming only. But how do you
arrest this fish swimming?
VK: Sir, we should get people’s support. There is a fear of police in people’s minds.
The Police should try to remove that by more contacts with people through social
service.
M3: Mr. Vijay! You seem to be a serious guy with philosophy and mythology so on.
Apart from this have you read about western philosophy?
VK: Sir, I read Western Philosophy as part of Civil Service preparation.
M3: So, which philosophers you liked most?
VK: Sir, I like Spinoza’s theory of substance.
M3: Why?
VK: Sir, Spinoza’s philosophy of Substance is very much similar to the Advaita
philosophy of Sankaracharya.
M3: Have you read the philosophy of Bertrand Russel, who is a great philosopher and
mathematician.
VK: Yes Sir, I read his philosophy ‘Linguististic Analysis’ as part of my Civil Services
preparation.
M3: Can you explain his philosophy?
VK: Sir, he says that all the earlier philosophers used such a language which always
had ambiguous meaning. He says philosophical language should be a common
languge which is used daily by common people and should convey single meaning.
By this method he says that many philosophical problems could be solved.
M3: Can you explain Dialectic theory?
VK: Dialectic theory….yes sir…..Dialectic theory says that for every concept there is
counter concept, and these two give rise to a new concept, which always has a
counter concept and so on goes….
M3: Two great philosophers used it. Can you name them?
VK: Yes sir,…..(not able to recollect)…..
M3: Carl Marx has used it.
VK: Yes sir, Carl Marx has used it for Materialism and called it Dialectic Materialism.
M3: Do you do any other light reading like novels?
VK: No Sir.
M3: What music you listen to?
VK: Sir, I used to listen to english pop music during my IIT days. But now I listen to
Old Telugu songs and Kishore Kumar songs.
M3: Why change?
VK: Sir,during my last days in IIT, I picked up this Kishore Kumar songs and Old
telugu songs from a nearby room. And I grew interest….(They actually laughed at
it…it was a releif for me)
M4: Mr. Vijay! Recently there was a comment on IITs that “IITs are good at
conducting Joint Entrance Examination”, there is a negative connotation about it.
Can you get it.
VK: …uhhnn…no sir.
M4: think.
VK: ….I think it means that IITs are good only at conducting Exams not at
academics..
M4: Is that really so…
VK: Not exactly sir,…for example…Before entering IIT, I new nothing but solving few
mathematical problems. But after coming out of IIT, I am a confident man.
M4:….blah…blah…Government is spending so much on IITs…..IITs are main source
of intellectuals….Many IITians leave country…..blah…blah…What do you suggest to
stop this brain drain?
VK: Sir, I feel that there should be compulsory course on Ethics and Social
responsibility. All my friends who had gone abroad have gone with academic
zeal…they don’t know that 25 crores of their fellow Indians are below poverty line.
M4: You were saying that infinity minus infinity is equal to infinity. Can you give an
example?
VK: …(thought for some time)….Sir, not getting any examples….its so simple to
understand that iam not able to get example….(I thought…I shouldn’t have said this)
M4: Ok, I will you a hint…take set of natural numbers.
VK: Yes sir, (I actually jumped at the answer with that hint). Set of Natural numbers
minus set of even number is equal to set of odd numbers, which is infinity minus
infinity is equal to infinity.
C: Ok, Vijay Thank You.
VK: (I thanked all and left the room without looking back)
I saw the time…My interview lasted 37 minutes.
Finally, 195 marks were awarded for this interview.
This is a blog for IAS aspirants, where you can find immense of data
Monday, November 29, 2010
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SAMPLE INTERVIEWS
SAMPLE INTERVIEWS
Name: Vineel Krishna
Interview: CS 2004
RANK --28
Date: 11.4.05
Chairman of the Interview panel: Gurubachan Singh Jagat
The following interview proceedings are as far as could be recollected. It should be
having 90% accuracy with respect to the questions asked and the answers given. The
interview proceeded in a very cordial and smooth manner. The members were relaxed
and smiling all the time. The interview was the first in the afternoon session.
Vineel Krishna: May I come in ,sir.
GSJ: Yes, Please come in.
VK: Thank You Sir, and Good Afternoon to you all.
GSJ: Good Afternoon Mr. Vineel Krishna, Please be seated.
VK: Thank You, Sir.
GSJ: Mr. Vineel, I see that you are from IIT Madras. Did you not get any campus
placement?
VK: Sir, I got placement as Systems Engineer in WIPRO Technologies. But, I did not
join the job.
GSJ: What is the reason?
VK: Sir, I had already chosen Civil services as my career. I wanted to have a single
focus on the exam. If I had joined the job, neither would I have satisfied the job nor
the exam. So, I did not join the job, sir.
GSJ: Why do you want to join the Civil Services?
VK: Sir, I want to be part of the developmental activities. I am also attracted by the
challenging and diverse nature of the job. The opportunity provided to make a
positive impact on the society, is unparalleled by any other job.
GSJ: But don’t you think the scope of bureaucrats has reduced. Your friends must be
in good jobs and some must have gone abroad. They must be doing well there. Why
do you want to swim against the current?
VK: Sir, I am just listening to my inner voice, which says that this is the area where I
must be and doing which I would realize my potential. Regarding the scope of
bureaucrats, sir, I agree that there is reduction. But I feel that the govt. is finally
concentrating on the core areas.
GSJ: Can you explain it?
VK: Sir, previously, the govt. expanded into unnecessary areas like running hotels,
where its presence is not really required. Now, the govt. is focusing on the core areas
like social sector – education, health, etc.
GSJ: I see that you played cricket. Are you still involved?
VK: No Sir, I used to play it during school and University days.
GSJ: Why are you not playing it now?
VK: Sir, I don’t have the opportunity now. To play cricket we need a team and
presently, I don’t have one.
GSJ: So, you don’t do anything for physical fitness?!
VK: Sir, I go for jogging every day and also I practice yoga and pranayama.
GSJ: Is it Art of Living or…
VK: Yes sir, I practice the Sudarshana Kriya of Art of Living.
GSJ: How much distance do you run every day?
VK: Well sir, I go to the ground and then decide upon the rounds and ensure that I
complete it, come what may. Usually it is around 8-9 rounds sir, approx. 3-4 km.
GSJ: Interestingly, you worked as Sub-editor of a magazine. Can you explain this?
VK: Sir, I worked for this Telugu youth magazine. It caters to the educational and
career requirements of the rural youth sir. I was contributing for their Science and
technology section. Since I was following the current affairs part and since it also
helps me in exam preparation, I joined the job.
GSJ: What is its circulation?
VK: It is around 12000, sir.
GSJ: Mr. Vineel, you come from Hyderabad, which had been doing well in many
areas and been constantly in news…
VK: Yes sir, the previous govt. under Chandrababu Naidu, had special focus on
Hyderabad and developed it in many ways. There was expansion of the roads,
improving the infrastructure like the MMTS, parks, water supply and sanitation. Also
there was development of tourist locations. The IT sector was particularly developed
e.g. the Cyber towers. Recently, the construction of international airport has also
started.
GSJ: Is there any problem with respect to housing?
VK: Yes sir, there is a problem, especially for the lower income group to find low cost
accommodation. There has also been a concern regarding slum growth in recent
times.
GSJ: What do you know about “Women Empowerment”?
VK: Sir, Women empowerment is about providing the necessary tools to the women
so that they can over come the discrimination against them. So that, they can stand
on their own and realize their potential. It involves various dimensions like social
empowerment, political empowerment and economic empowerment. There are
various measures like providing education and job reservations , as done in our
state, then providing legal frame work, say against dowry, sexual harassment etc,
then providing inheritance right to property etc.
GSJ: You said discrimination, how?
VK: Sir, woman is subjected to discrimination right from the birth. In many families,
there are no celebrations when a girl child is born. Then with respect to provision of
nutritious food, the male child is given preference. Also, the education of girl is a
lesser priority. Then, after puberty, the sole concern of the parents is to marry her off
some how. The further education of girl is highly discouraged and she is not allowed
to stand on her feet. She is made dependent forever and therefore, the discrimination
continues lifelong.
GSJ: In fact the discrimination starts in the womb itself, you must have heard of
female foeticide…
VK: Yes sir, unfortunately in many places they conduct pre-natal tests and the
female foetus is killed.
GSJ: What do you know about women’s reservation?
VK: Sir, there is a bill pending in the Parliament which provides for one-third
reservation to the women in the Parliament and the State legislatures. But there is no
consensus among the political parties.
GSJ: We have already provided for reservations in the PRIs. But there seems to be
some problem…
VK: Yes sir, it has been observed that in many cases her husband or brother or
relatives influence the woman member. There is a proxy rule.
1st member: Mr. Vineel, do you have any understanding about rural areas?
VK: Yes sir, I often go to my grand parent’s place.
1m: Where is it situated?
VK: Sir, it is a village near Tenali, near Vijayawada.
1m: Which geographical region does it fall under?
VK: Sir, it is in the central part of coastal Andhra.
1m: Can you name the geographical regions in AP and the cropping patterns?
VK: Sir, we have three regions, namely, telengana, coastal andhra and rayalseema.
The coastal andhra grows mainly rice. The irrigation facilities are good and therefore,
they have 2-3 crops per year. While, the Telengana and the Rayalseema regions are
rainfed, depending on the monsoons and are in the rain shadow zone. The irrigation
facilities are also less, so mainly there are some dry crops. In rayalseema , they grow
groundnuts, and in Telengana, they grow Jowar and cotton.
1m: You said your parents live in Coastal…
VK: Excuse me sir, my father works in BHEL, its actually my grand parents who stay
in village.
1m: ok, so coastal area is affected by cyclones. How are they formed?
VK: Sir, the cyclones are weather disturbances formed in tropical seas like the Bay of
Bengal. It forms when some conditions are fulfilled like continues availability of warm
moist air, some low pressure , the influence of the upper air atmosphere etc.
1m: Which part of the year do they occur?
VK: Sir, during the Oct-Nov and also during May.
1m: Are you sure they occur in May?
VK: Sir, I remember that in 1991 they occurred during the month of May.
1m: What measures would you take for cyclone prevention?
VK: Sir, actually my B. Tech project was in AP cyclone hazard mitigation project
(APCHMP). In that we were using the GIS – geographical information system, for
cyclone warning and prevention of loss to life. The system is installed at all the
coastal district head quarters. The network is integrated with the Indian
Meteorological Department(IMD). The IMD gives information about the cyclone, its
intensity and possible direction. Then, the district administration can get specific
details of the villages that would be affected by storm surges. Immediately,
evacuation orders can be given and suitable measures can be taken.
1m: What measures would you take as Head of the district?
VK: Sir, firstly the complete picture should be understood with the available
information. The field level officials should be contacted and asked to take steps for
evacuation to cyclone shelters. Then, the disciplined forces like police and the army
should be alerted. Also, the state road transport buses should be kept ready. The
health department should be prepared for any eventuality. In the long term, sir, the
constructions along the coast should be regulated and proper standards should be
maintained to withstand high wind speeds.
1m: What do you know about the disaster management in India?
VK: Sir, in India we have a disaster management structure from the centre right
upto the district administration. The Central govt. has the Disaster management
division in Home Ministry, the Crisis Management Committee consisting of the
various Secretaries and ,also, the Centre for disaster management. Similar structures
exist at state level and there are detailed manuals for the District administration.
The finances are provided by National calamity and contingency relief fund and the
PM’s relief fund.
1m: Are you aware of any recent developments?
VK: Sir, in the wake of the recent Tsunami disaster, a need was felt for a
comprehensive review as to how we should tackle disasters. So, there has been a
decision to set up a National disaster management agency with centres at various
strategic locations to tackle both natural and manmade disasters.
2member: Why is transparency in administration being given so much importance?
VK: Sir, there is a quotation that “corruption thrives in secret places”. The power of
the corrupt people comes from the information that they possess and not available
with the citizen. The transparency is about providing the citizen with the information
about the services of the department and the processes involved. There are many
tools being advocated like the Right to information, citizen’s charter, e-governance
etc. This will help the citizen to be more clear about the quality of services to expect
and how to deal in case of a grievance. The pressure will be there on the officials and
the effectiveness of the administration will improve.
2m: what is the difference between Freedom and Right to Information?
VK: The NDA govt. is actually accused of diluting the original demand and instead
giving a Freedom to Information Act. Now, the NCMP promises to introduce Right to
Information Act. The basic difference is that if it is a right then the citizen will have
more power and can initiate legal proceedings also. Otherwise, the official will have
discretion in case it is a Freedom.
2m: In S&T, which area do you like the most?
VK: Sir, I like the Space technology.
2m:Can you explain the launch vehicle technology of India?
VK: Sir, India started developing the launch vehicles during 1970s. The first vehicle
was the SLV. The initial test was a failure in 1980. Then the SLVs became a success
and the programme was upgraded to the next stage, ie, Augmented Satellite Launch
Vehicle (ASLV). Later, the commercial vehicles like the PSLV and the GSLVs were
developed during the 1990s. Presently, the ISRO has capacity to launch 2 ton
satellites into geo-synchronous orbit. It is in the process of developing GSLV mark 3
which will carry the INSAT systems.
2m: Can you explain why the SLV 3 was a failure. What exactly went wrong?
VK: Sorry sir, I don’t know the technical details.
2m: Who led the team of SLV?
VK: Sir, it was led by the Honourable President APJ Abdul Kalam ji.
2m: What is the latest technology used in GSLV?
VK: Sir, the GSLV uses the cryogenic engine in its last stage. Presently, we are using
Russian engines, but in near future our cryogenic engines will be ready.
2m: Why do we use cryogenics?
VK: Sir, with present technology only cryogenic engine can be used to place heavy
satellites like INSAT in a high geo-stationary orbit. They use low temperatures and
the liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. It is a complicated technology.
2m: Do you know about Hyderabad Central University?
VK: Yes sir, its quite near to my place.
2m: What special things happen there?
VK: Sir, the university is known for its high standards. They have a very good social
sciences department, then the management course is also good and the computer
science department also has good reputation…
2m: What about the basic sciences?
VK: Yes sir, the basic science is also quite strong in HCU.
2m: What is the difference between Sudarshana Kriya and Kapala Bhati?
VK: Sorry sir, I don’t know.
2m: What technology developments take place in Hyderabad?
VK: Sir, Hyderabad is main centre for many technological developments. Especially,
in defence technology, the complete development of missiles takes place here. Also…
2m: Can name the specific labs of DRDO here?
VK: Sorry sir, I don’t know the names.
2m: Any other area of defence tech, say, don’t you know about electronics and
metallurgy…
VK: Yes sir, the metallurgy related developments are done in MIDHANI.
2m:MIDHANI?!
VK: Sir, I am not sure if it is only for production or if there is research lab attached to
it.
2m: Can name some CSIR labs in Hyd.?
VK: Sir, we have the CCMB and the IICT, as far as my knowledge goes.
2m: can you name the research that takes place in IICT?
VK: sir, the Chemical related aspects are dealt in this lab. I don’t know the specific
technologies, but I am aware that IICT is involved in developing alternatives to ozone
depleting substances like CFCs, so as to comply with the Montreal Protocol.
109
2m: But that does not involve India , it is only for the developed nations…
VK: Sir, the IICT is involved in the development of the alternative technology…
2m: Can you name the products developed?
VK: Sorry sir, I don’t know the exact technical names.
2m: Mr.Vineel, as a technologist, you must have thought about using creativity and
innovation in improving the administration. Can you explain?
VK: Sir, I always believe that the technology can be used to improve administration to
be more efficient and citizen friendly. To take a specific example, the biometric
systems can be used. They can be applied in ensuring the attendance of the staff. In
rural areas, often the staff is absent from there work. The biometric system can be
used to ensure compliance. Also, it can be used in identifying the loan beneficiaries.
Often, the same group in a village corners all the loans under different schemes.
Using biometric systems, this can be avoided. Also…
2m: But these things are already being used. Tell me something more innovative?
VK: (pause for a couple of seconds to think)…
2m: ok ok,
3member: Mr.Vineel, are you proud to be an Indian?
VK: Of course sir, I am proud to be an Indian.
3m: Can you say why, some important factor…
VK: Sir , I particularly like the composite culture of India. If we look at the world,
even small nations with hardly one or two communities are not able to exist
peacefully. There is so much of conflict. Whereas, in India, every 500 km the
language changes, the culture changes. But still we exist as a nation. I believe we
have an important message for the world, we are a role model…
3m: What about the achievements in S&T, say in space technology?
VK: Yes sir, we are among handful nations who have the complete technology to
manufacture and send satellites into space. Our remote sensing data is of high
quality that even the USA is purchasing it from us. It has been a remarkable
achievement for India considering the financial and other constraints…
3m: Why do you think India was able to do this?
VK: Sir, I think the visionary leadership of Vikram Sarabhai played a major role. He
created leaders at various levels, which ensured the continuity of the programme…
3m: Don’t you think Nehru contributed…
VK: Yes sir, Nehru had a great role. He believed that technology can elevate the
nation and provided the necessary resources and autonomy to the scientists like
Homi Bhabha and Vikram Sarabhai. The foundation was really quite strong.
3m: How will your technological background help you as an administrator?
VK: Sir, firstly I think the problem solving techniques learnt in engineering can as
well be applied in administration. The technological background helps in a structured
and logical framework of mind, which is useful in any problem-solving situation.
Then, the tech orientation will always be at the back of the mind. So whenever any
new technology comes, we tend to think how it can be applied in improving the
administration. Also, sir, I have the contacts with my college friends who are now
working in various technology areas and management. We keep discussing the
developments on our e-groups. This gives me awareness in latest developments and
how they can be applied in administration.
4m: Mr.Vineel, you are having a background in Telugu. I will ask you a question – “
Thinte garele thinali, vinte bharatame vinali” (telugu) who said this?
VK: …(pause) .. Sir, I think it is said by character in Gurajada’s play –
“Kanyashulkam”.. (actually, a wrong answer)
4m: Who wrote Andhra mahabharatam?
VK: Sir, by Nannaya, Tikkana and Yerrapragada.
4m: Do you know about the Civil society- its characteristics and the status in India?
VK: Sir, Civil society is a broad term which includes ngos, pressure groups, trade
unions etc. In fact, it is not properly defined and therefore can include any
organisation, which is not related to govt., working on some area of public interest
etc. The civil society organisations have developed well in the recent past in India, but
there is good potential for improvement. In USA, the civil society is really quite
strong.
4m: Can you name some civil society groups?
VK: Sir, we have Sulabh international, Human rights watch, PUCL, CSE, CRY etc.
4m. What do you understand by Third sector?
VK: It is other than the Public and the private sector, sir. In recent times, the Third
sector has been given a major role.
4m: Can you specifically tell me the Maoists talks in AP?
VK: Sir, the previous elections had Maoist as the main issue. In fact, there was an
assassination of the previous CM…
4m: Assassination or assassination attempt?!…
VK: Sorry sir, I meant assassination attempt. Then the early elections were called out
on the issue. The Congress promised in its manifesto that peace talks will be
initiated. Therefore after coming to power, the Congress govt initiated the talks and
the …
4m: ok ok. Then, can you tell me about the Telengana movement. Not about TRS or
recent elections, but specifically about the movement.
VK: Sir, the Telengana was part of the Hyderabad state under Nizam. After
independence, when the Andhra state was formed, the Telengana area was merged
with the Andhra. At that time promises were made regarding Telengana’s interests.
But, by late 1960s, there was growing discontentment and a feeling of betrayal
among the people of Telengana. There started a “Jai Telengana” movement for the
separate statehood, and …
4m: Ok Ok. Do you think small states will lead to development?
Vk: Sir, we have many small states which are backward, at the same time there are
big states like Maharashtra which are …
4m: But even in Maharashtra there is demand for Vidharba…
VK: Yes sir, there are some relative differences in development. In fact, we cannot
have a general rule that only a small state will lead to development. It really depends
on the political and administrative skill as to how they use the resources optimally.
GSJ: You have a hobby of reading books. What kind of books do you read?
VK: Sir, I read all types –both fiction and non-fiction, in general. But I like reading
about the life stories of great people.
GSJ: Whose biography did you read recently?
VK: Sir, I was reading about Marie Curie, written by her daughter Eve Curie.
GSJ: Which is your favourite fiction?
VK: Sir, I like reading the novels of R. K. Narayan.
GSJ: Ok Mr.Vineel. Thank You.
VK: Thank You sir.
Finally, 201 marks were awarded for this interview. Rank-28
Name: Vineel Krishna
Interview: CS 2004
RANK --28
Date: 11.4.05
Chairman of the Interview panel: Gurubachan Singh Jagat
The following interview proceedings are as far as could be recollected. It should be
having 90% accuracy with respect to the questions asked and the answers given. The
interview proceeded in a very cordial and smooth manner. The members were relaxed
and smiling all the time. The interview was the first in the afternoon session.
Vineel Krishna: May I come in ,sir.
GSJ: Yes, Please come in.
VK: Thank You Sir, and Good Afternoon to you all.
GSJ: Good Afternoon Mr. Vineel Krishna, Please be seated.
VK: Thank You, Sir.
GSJ: Mr. Vineel, I see that you are from IIT Madras. Did you not get any campus
placement?
VK: Sir, I got placement as Systems Engineer in WIPRO Technologies. But, I did not
join the job.
GSJ: What is the reason?
VK: Sir, I had already chosen Civil services as my career. I wanted to have a single
focus on the exam. If I had joined the job, neither would I have satisfied the job nor
the exam. So, I did not join the job, sir.
GSJ: Why do you want to join the Civil Services?
VK: Sir, I want to be part of the developmental activities. I am also attracted by the
challenging and diverse nature of the job. The opportunity provided to make a
positive impact on the society, is unparalleled by any other job.
GSJ: But don’t you think the scope of bureaucrats has reduced. Your friends must be
in good jobs and some must have gone abroad. They must be doing well there. Why
do you want to swim against the current?
VK: Sir, I am just listening to my inner voice, which says that this is the area where I
must be and doing which I would realize my potential. Regarding the scope of
bureaucrats, sir, I agree that there is reduction. But I feel that the govt. is finally
concentrating on the core areas.
GSJ: Can you explain it?
VK: Sir, previously, the govt. expanded into unnecessary areas like running hotels,
where its presence is not really required. Now, the govt. is focusing on the core areas
like social sector – education, health, etc.
GSJ: I see that you played cricket. Are you still involved?
VK: No Sir, I used to play it during school and University days.
GSJ: Why are you not playing it now?
VK: Sir, I don’t have the opportunity now. To play cricket we need a team and
presently, I don’t have one.
GSJ: So, you don’t do anything for physical fitness?!
VK: Sir, I go for jogging every day and also I practice yoga and pranayama.
GSJ: Is it Art of Living or…
VK: Yes sir, I practice the Sudarshana Kriya of Art of Living.
GSJ: How much distance do you run every day?
VK: Well sir, I go to the ground and then decide upon the rounds and ensure that I
complete it, come what may. Usually it is around 8-9 rounds sir, approx. 3-4 km.
GSJ: Interestingly, you worked as Sub-editor of a magazine. Can you explain this?
VK: Sir, I worked for this Telugu youth magazine. It caters to the educational and
career requirements of the rural youth sir. I was contributing for their Science and
technology section. Since I was following the current affairs part and since it also
helps me in exam preparation, I joined the job.
GSJ: What is its circulation?
VK: It is around 12000, sir.
GSJ: Mr. Vineel, you come from Hyderabad, which had been doing well in many
areas and been constantly in news…
VK: Yes sir, the previous govt. under Chandrababu Naidu, had special focus on
Hyderabad and developed it in many ways. There was expansion of the roads,
improving the infrastructure like the MMTS, parks, water supply and sanitation. Also
there was development of tourist locations. The IT sector was particularly developed
e.g. the Cyber towers. Recently, the construction of international airport has also
started.
GSJ: Is there any problem with respect to housing?
VK: Yes sir, there is a problem, especially for the lower income group to find low cost
accommodation. There has also been a concern regarding slum growth in recent
times.
GSJ: What do you know about “Women Empowerment”?
VK: Sir, Women empowerment is about providing the necessary tools to the women
so that they can over come the discrimination against them. So that, they can stand
on their own and realize their potential. It involves various dimensions like social
empowerment, political empowerment and economic empowerment. There are
various measures like providing education and job reservations , as done in our
state, then providing legal frame work, say against dowry, sexual harassment etc,
then providing inheritance right to property etc.
GSJ: You said discrimination, how?
VK: Sir, woman is subjected to discrimination right from the birth. In many families,
there are no celebrations when a girl child is born. Then with respect to provision of
nutritious food, the male child is given preference. Also, the education of girl is a
lesser priority. Then, after puberty, the sole concern of the parents is to marry her off
some how. The further education of girl is highly discouraged and she is not allowed
to stand on her feet. She is made dependent forever and therefore, the discrimination
continues lifelong.
GSJ: In fact the discrimination starts in the womb itself, you must have heard of
female foeticide…
VK: Yes sir, unfortunately in many places they conduct pre-natal tests and the
female foetus is killed.
GSJ: What do you know about women’s reservation?
VK: Sir, there is a bill pending in the Parliament which provides for one-third
reservation to the women in the Parliament and the State legislatures. But there is no
consensus among the political parties.
GSJ: We have already provided for reservations in the PRIs. But there seems to be
some problem…
VK: Yes sir, it has been observed that in many cases her husband or brother or
relatives influence the woman member. There is a proxy rule.
1st member: Mr. Vineel, do you have any understanding about rural areas?
VK: Yes sir, I often go to my grand parent’s place.
1m: Where is it situated?
VK: Sir, it is a village near Tenali, near Vijayawada.
1m: Which geographical region does it fall under?
VK: Sir, it is in the central part of coastal Andhra.
1m: Can you name the geographical regions in AP and the cropping patterns?
VK: Sir, we have three regions, namely, telengana, coastal andhra and rayalseema.
The coastal andhra grows mainly rice. The irrigation facilities are good and therefore,
they have 2-3 crops per year. While, the Telengana and the Rayalseema regions are
rainfed, depending on the monsoons and are in the rain shadow zone. The irrigation
facilities are also less, so mainly there are some dry crops. In rayalseema , they grow
groundnuts, and in Telengana, they grow Jowar and cotton.
1m: You said your parents live in Coastal…
VK: Excuse me sir, my father works in BHEL, its actually my grand parents who stay
in village.
1m: ok, so coastal area is affected by cyclones. How are they formed?
VK: Sir, the cyclones are weather disturbances formed in tropical seas like the Bay of
Bengal. It forms when some conditions are fulfilled like continues availability of warm
moist air, some low pressure , the influence of the upper air atmosphere etc.
1m: Which part of the year do they occur?
VK: Sir, during the Oct-Nov and also during May.
1m: Are you sure they occur in May?
VK: Sir, I remember that in 1991 they occurred during the month of May.
1m: What measures would you take for cyclone prevention?
VK: Sir, actually my B. Tech project was in AP cyclone hazard mitigation project
(APCHMP). In that we were using the GIS – geographical information system, for
cyclone warning and prevention of loss to life. The system is installed at all the
coastal district head quarters. The network is integrated with the Indian
Meteorological Department(IMD). The IMD gives information about the cyclone, its
intensity and possible direction. Then, the district administration can get specific
details of the villages that would be affected by storm surges. Immediately,
evacuation orders can be given and suitable measures can be taken.
1m: What measures would you take as Head of the district?
VK: Sir, firstly the complete picture should be understood with the available
information. The field level officials should be contacted and asked to take steps for
evacuation to cyclone shelters. Then, the disciplined forces like police and the army
should be alerted. Also, the state road transport buses should be kept ready. The
health department should be prepared for any eventuality. In the long term, sir, the
constructions along the coast should be regulated and proper standards should be
maintained to withstand high wind speeds.
1m: What do you know about the disaster management in India?
VK: Sir, in India we have a disaster management structure from the centre right
upto the district administration. The Central govt. has the Disaster management
division in Home Ministry, the Crisis Management Committee consisting of the
various Secretaries and ,also, the Centre for disaster management. Similar structures
exist at state level and there are detailed manuals for the District administration.
The finances are provided by National calamity and contingency relief fund and the
PM’s relief fund.
1m: Are you aware of any recent developments?
VK: Sir, in the wake of the recent Tsunami disaster, a need was felt for a
comprehensive review as to how we should tackle disasters. So, there has been a
decision to set up a National disaster management agency with centres at various
strategic locations to tackle both natural and manmade disasters.
2member: Why is transparency in administration being given so much importance?
VK: Sir, there is a quotation that “corruption thrives in secret places”. The power of
the corrupt people comes from the information that they possess and not available
with the citizen. The transparency is about providing the citizen with the information
about the services of the department and the processes involved. There are many
tools being advocated like the Right to information, citizen’s charter, e-governance
etc. This will help the citizen to be more clear about the quality of services to expect
and how to deal in case of a grievance. The pressure will be there on the officials and
the effectiveness of the administration will improve.
2m: what is the difference between Freedom and Right to Information?
VK: The NDA govt. is actually accused of diluting the original demand and instead
giving a Freedom to Information Act. Now, the NCMP promises to introduce Right to
Information Act. The basic difference is that if it is a right then the citizen will have
more power and can initiate legal proceedings also. Otherwise, the official will have
discretion in case it is a Freedom.
2m: In S&T, which area do you like the most?
VK: Sir, I like the Space technology.
2m:Can you explain the launch vehicle technology of India?
VK: Sir, India started developing the launch vehicles during 1970s. The first vehicle
was the SLV. The initial test was a failure in 1980. Then the SLVs became a success
and the programme was upgraded to the next stage, ie, Augmented Satellite Launch
Vehicle (ASLV). Later, the commercial vehicles like the PSLV and the GSLVs were
developed during the 1990s. Presently, the ISRO has capacity to launch 2 ton
satellites into geo-synchronous orbit. It is in the process of developing GSLV mark 3
which will carry the INSAT systems.
2m: Can you explain why the SLV 3 was a failure. What exactly went wrong?
VK: Sorry sir, I don’t know the technical details.
2m: Who led the team of SLV?
VK: Sir, it was led by the Honourable President APJ Abdul Kalam ji.
2m: What is the latest technology used in GSLV?
VK: Sir, the GSLV uses the cryogenic engine in its last stage. Presently, we are using
Russian engines, but in near future our cryogenic engines will be ready.
2m: Why do we use cryogenics?
VK: Sir, with present technology only cryogenic engine can be used to place heavy
satellites like INSAT in a high geo-stationary orbit. They use low temperatures and
the liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. It is a complicated technology.
2m: Do you know about Hyderabad Central University?
VK: Yes sir, its quite near to my place.
2m: What special things happen there?
VK: Sir, the university is known for its high standards. They have a very good social
sciences department, then the management course is also good and the computer
science department also has good reputation…
2m: What about the basic sciences?
VK: Yes sir, the basic science is also quite strong in HCU.
2m: What is the difference between Sudarshana Kriya and Kapala Bhati?
VK: Sorry sir, I don’t know.
2m: What technology developments take place in Hyderabad?
VK: Sir, Hyderabad is main centre for many technological developments. Especially,
in defence technology, the complete development of missiles takes place here. Also…
2m: Can name the specific labs of DRDO here?
VK: Sorry sir, I don’t know the names.
2m: Any other area of defence tech, say, don’t you know about electronics and
metallurgy…
VK: Yes sir, the metallurgy related developments are done in MIDHANI.
2m:MIDHANI?!
VK: Sir, I am not sure if it is only for production or if there is research lab attached to
it.
2m: Can name some CSIR labs in Hyd.?
VK: Sir, we have the CCMB and the IICT, as far as my knowledge goes.
2m: can you name the research that takes place in IICT?
VK: sir, the Chemical related aspects are dealt in this lab. I don’t know the specific
technologies, but I am aware that IICT is involved in developing alternatives to ozone
depleting substances like CFCs, so as to comply with the Montreal Protocol.
109
2m: But that does not involve India , it is only for the developed nations…
VK: Sir, the IICT is involved in the development of the alternative technology…
2m: Can you name the products developed?
VK: Sorry sir, I don’t know the exact technical names.
2m: Mr.Vineel, as a technologist, you must have thought about using creativity and
innovation in improving the administration. Can you explain?
VK: Sir, I always believe that the technology can be used to improve administration to
be more efficient and citizen friendly. To take a specific example, the biometric
systems can be used. They can be applied in ensuring the attendance of the staff. In
rural areas, often the staff is absent from there work. The biometric system can be
used to ensure compliance. Also, it can be used in identifying the loan beneficiaries.
Often, the same group in a village corners all the loans under different schemes.
Using biometric systems, this can be avoided. Also…
2m: But these things are already being used. Tell me something more innovative?
VK: (pause for a couple of seconds to think)…
2m: ok ok,
3member: Mr.Vineel, are you proud to be an Indian?
VK: Of course sir, I am proud to be an Indian.
3m: Can you say why, some important factor…
VK: Sir , I particularly like the composite culture of India. If we look at the world,
even small nations with hardly one or two communities are not able to exist
peacefully. There is so much of conflict. Whereas, in India, every 500 km the
language changes, the culture changes. But still we exist as a nation. I believe we
have an important message for the world, we are a role model…
3m: What about the achievements in S&T, say in space technology?
VK: Yes sir, we are among handful nations who have the complete technology to
manufacture and send satellites into space. Our remote sensing data is of high
quality that even the USA is purchasing it from us. It has been a remarkable
achievement for India considering the financial and other constraints…
3m: Why do you think India was able to do this?
VK: Sir, I think the visionary leadership of Vikram Sarabhai played a major role. He
created leaders at various levels, which ensured the continuity of the programme…
3m: Don’t you think Nehru contributed…
VK: Yes sir, Nehru had a great role. He believed that technology can elevate the
nation and provided the necessary resources and autonomy to the scientists like
Homi Bhabha and Vikram Sarabhai. The foundation was really quite strong.
3m: How will your technological background help you as an administrator?
VK: Sir, firstly I think the problem solving techniques learnt in engineering can as
well be applied in administration. The technological background helps in a structured
and logical framework of mind, which is useful in any problem-solving situation.
Then, the tech orientation will always be at the back of the mind. So whenever any
new technology comes, we tend to think how it can be applied in improving the
administration. Also, sir, I have the contacts with my college friends who are now
working in various technology areas and management. We keep discussing the
developments on our e-groups. This gives me awareness in latest developments and
how they can be applied in administration.
4m: Mr.Vineel, you are having a background in Telugu. I will ask you a question – “
Thinte garele thinali, vinte bharatame vinali” (telugu) who said this?
VK: …(pause) .. Sir, I think it is said by character in Gurajada’s play –
“Kanyashulkam”.. (actually, a wrong answer)
4m: Who wrote Andhra mahabharatam?
VK: Sir, by Nannaya, Tikkana and Yerrapragada.
4m: Do you know about the Civil society- its characteristics and the status in India?
VK: Sir, Civil society is a broad term which includes ngos, pressure groups, trade
unions etc. In fact, it is not properly defined and therefore can include any
organisation, which is not related to govt., working on some area of public interest
etc. The civil society organisations have developed well in the recent past in India, but
there is good potential for improvement. In USA, the civil society is really quite
strong.
4m: Can you name some civil society groups?
VK: Sir, we have Sulabh international, Human rights watch, PUCL, CSE, CRY etc.
4m. What do you understand by Third sector?
VK: It is other than the Public and the private sector, sir. In recent times, the Third
sector has been given a major role.
4m: Can you specifically tell me the Maoists talks in AP?
VK: Sir, the previous elections had Maoist as the main issue. In fact, there was an
assassination of the previous CM…
4m: Assassination or assassination attempt?!…
VK: Sorry sir, I meant assassination attempt. Then the early elections were called out
on the issue. The Congress promised in its manifesto that peace talks will be
initiated. Therefore after coming to power, the Congress govt initiated the talks and
the …
4m: ok ok. Then, can you tell me about the Telengana movement. Not about TRS or
recent elections, but specifically about the movement.
VK: Sir, the Telengana was part of the Hyderabad state under Nizam. After
independence, when the Andhra state was formed, the Telengana area was merged
with the Andhra. At that time promises were made regarding Telengana’s interests.
But, by late 1960s, there was growing discontentment and a feeling of betrayal
among the people of Telengana. There started a “Jai Telengana” movement for the
separate statehood, and …
4m: Ok Ok. Do you think small states will lead to development?
Vk: Sir, we have many small states which are backward, at the same time there are
big states like Maharashtra which are …
4m: But even in Maharashtra there is demand for Vidharba…
VK: Yes sir, there are some relative differences in development. In fact, we cannot
have a general rule that only a small state will lead to development. It really depends
on the political and administrative skill as to how they use the resources optimally.
GSJ: You have a hobby of reading books. What kind of books do you read?
VK: Sir, I read all types –both fiction and non-fiction, in general. But I like reading
about the life stories of great people.
GSJ: Whose biography did you read recently?
VK: Sir, I was reading about Marie Curie, written by her daughter Eve Curie.
GSJ: Which is your favourite fiction?
VK: Sir, I like reading the novels of R. K. Narayan.
GSJ: Ok Mr.Vineel. Thank You.
VK: Thank You sir.
Finally, 201 marks were awarded for this interview. Rank-28
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
SHUBRA SAXENA INTERVIEW
SHUBRA SAXENA INTERVIEW : 2008 UPSC TOPPER
I reached UPSC by 12:15 pm. I kept waiting till we were allowed to go in. It was about 1:30 pm when I went in. I reached inside and saw the other candidates who were also there for their interviews. There were 7 tables around which 5 candidates were seated. The table decides which board you are going to be in. At around 2 pm, the candidates started going to their respective interview boards. We still didn't know our board. There were 4 other candidates with me who were going to be interviewed by the same board. There were 2 ladies, one from Maharashtra and one from Rajasthan, and there were 2 guys, one from IIT Chennai and the other I can't recall.
We kept waiting, meanwhile other boards had interviewed around 2 candidates. We were getting impatient and hungry too. The lady from Rajasthan opened her bag and got out a packet of biscuits. I thanked god and started eating them. we were speculating as to which board we would get. Finally someone came and told us that we were going to be interviewed by Mr. P K Mishra.
I was so disheartened. Last year, I had been interviewed by a new board member, Mr Purushottam Aggarwal. I was the 1st one to go in on the 1st day last year. In spite of having a wonderful interview, I got just 180. So, I was a little apprehensive as Mr P K Mishra was also a new member of UPSC.
Now, coming back to the table. Everyone was nervous. We were reading all the newspapers there, in case a question comes from any of the newspapers. Then we started talking and finally we were all relaxed.
I was the 3rd one to go in. So when finally the 1st guy was called to the interview, we heaved a sigh of relief. I was assuming that since the board had started late, they would not give us adequate time. I had been suffering from throat infection just before the interview, so was taking a vicks/strepsil all the time. When the 2nd guy from IIT Chennai went in, I started anticipating the interview.
Finally at 4 o clock, someone came to lead me to the board. Suddenly to my horror I realised that my mouth was so dry due to vicks/ strepsils. I didn't have water with me. I reached there and asked someone for water, but even after drinking water, my throat won't be better. I had about 3 glasses of water, that didn't help. I was cursing vicks/strepsils. I was thinking that a heavy throat was better than a dry one. What if I needed to drink water during the interview if my mouth dried again. Anyway, after 10 mins or so, the gentleman from IIT Chennai came out and told me that they were very cool. But that he had had just 15 mins with them.
Then they called for me. I composed myself, tried to forget my dry mouth and asked for their permission to enter the room. When I entered, I saw two lady members to the left of CM and 2 gentlemen to his right. I wished the ladies first and then the gentlemen. I stood next to the chair and waited for the CM's permission to sit down. He said "please be seated". I thanked him and sat down.
Now the interview starts:
CM: What's your name?
Me: Sir, My name is Shubhra Saxena
CM:Tell us about yourself
Me: I told them about my education, prof background, my family and so on.
CM:Can you tell us the immunisation schedule of children
(Now let me tell you v frankly that I was shocked and thrown off guard. Maybe he wanted to destabilise me to see if I maintained my cool.)
Me:Sir, I am not aware of the immunisation schedule of children. But I do know some vaccines for children.
CM: Fine, go ahead.
Me: There is DPT, that prevents Diptheria, Pertussis and Tetanus. And there is OPV, Oral polio vaccine.
CM: Can't you recall any more?
Me:Sorry Sir, I can't recall any more.
CM:Isn't there a vaccine for Hepatitis B?
Me:Sir there is, But I think it can be taken as an adult because I had this vaccine when I was in college.
CM: (Smiled) Yes but it is now given to children.
Me:I said, Thank you sir.
CM: Your hobbies include teaching. Can you tell us about that?
Me:Sir, I have liked teaching since childhood. I used to teach my younger siblings and the children of my colony. Now I teach some children of my maid servants.
CM:Tell us, who is a good teacher?
(I didn't understand the question but I nevertheless tried to answer.)
Me: A good teacher is the one who can conceptually explain topics to students. Someone who can motivate students to do better. Someone who can be a friend, philosopher and guide to students.
( He was apparently not satisfied with my answer.)
CM: No, tell me if you are teaching students in a class, how would you make sure that they followed what you were teaching?
Me: Sir, I would first try to understand the level of cognitive maturity of students. Then I would try to adjust the speed of teaching to suit most of the students because at any level of teaching not all students would be satisfied. I would include practical examples to make them understand the concepts better. The students who have somehow not grasped the things I taught them, I would give them time other than the class to make sure they understood it.
(he apparently was satisfied. So he let it go. He gestured to the 1st lady member on his left)
M1: Your hobby is teaching. So can you tell me about a few education schemes of GOI
Me: I told her about SSA. She inturrepted me.
M1: Can you tell us about SSA?
Me: I told her about a few provisions under SSA as I did not know all.
M1:Can you tell me if there are any provisions for handicapped children under SSA.
Me:Ma'm I am not sure if there are any. But there mustbe.
M1:(Looks at other members) aren' there? (Others nod)
Tell me about other education schemes?
Me: I told about MSA, MDM, KGBV , scholarship schemes for disadvantaged and backward students.
M1: (Interrupts)..That's fine. Your extra curricular activity said Debating. I will give you a topic. Can you debate on that.
Me: Yes ma'm.
M1: The topic is "Women should empower themselves"
Me: Ma'm should I debate in favour or against the topic?
M1: Whichever way you want
Me: May I speak both in favour and against the topic?
(I was a little apprehensive if this gamble would pay off. But it did. She didn't look offended.)
M1: Yes, go ahead.
Me:Argued first against the topic. Then later in favour of the topic.
M1:(looking very happy) Excellent Shubhra. You have argued well in both directions. But you forgot to mention the role of husbands.
Me:(I smiled) yes Ma'm. Thank you.
She now passed the charge to the next lady member..
M2: So Shubhra, you have stayed in many states. Which state have you stayed maximum in?
Me: Ma'm I have stayed for 16 years in Jharkhand and 12 years in UP and 2 years in AP.
M2: So can you please compare Jharkhand and UP?
Me: Yes Ma'm. Jharkhand and UP are topographically very diffrent states. Whereas JH has a hilly and forested terrain, UP is part of the Gangetic plain and very sparsely forested. UP is densely populated whereas JH has a low population density. JH has a sizeable tribal population mainly consisting of tribes like Santhal and Munda whereas UP has a low tribal population. Both the states primarily speak Hindi. In terms of HDI, both perform poorly.
M2: No, tell me what diff did you find on a personal level?
Me: Ma'm both states are culturally complex and offer a variety of ways of life. While I was growing up in Jharkhand I used to stay in isolated forested lands where sometimes wild animals like tiger would come into our colony. This is something I have never come across in UP. The food of these 2 states is more or less the same with a few regional variations. The people in both the states are very tolerant and loving and make one feel at home.
(Everyone smiled at the tiger comment)
She nods then asks.
M2: Tell me what is India's equation with Nepal?
Me: Ma'm Nepal has traditionally been a good friend of India's and India has always supported Nepal in many ways. But with the coming of Maoist government in Nepal, the equations are changing as Maoists are more sympathetic towards China. And therefore the hegemony of India in Nepal is weakening.
(She draws her eyebrows together as if frowning at me. I am telling you it was a scary moment)
M2: Do you think we should be using words like hegemony in context of international relations. India is a big country and shouldn't it allow her neighbour countries autonomy rather than dominating them?
Me: Ma'm, (how to redefine the meaning of hegemony???) , I didn't mean hegemony in the sense of controlling a smaller country for one's vested interests. I meant primacy in international relations.
India is a very big country and that is the reason most of her neighbours are insecure about India's intentions. But India is a very peaceful country and instead of dominating its neighbours she extends whatever support it can to her neighbours.
(again frowning....I am so scared now...)
M2: It is you who are saying that India is a peaceful country.But other countries don't think so.
Me: Ma'm, I have had the fortune to work abroad in many countries and everywhere I meet people they always say that India is perhaps the most peace loving country in the world.
(She looks satisfied now...I heave a sigh of relief)
M2: Tell me about India's relations with Myanmar.
Me: Relations between India and Myanmar haven't been very positive ever since the military junta took over control of that country since India had never supported the junta's rule in Myanmar. But lately, the contours of relations are changing for the better because India needs Myanmar for access to ASEAN route, for development of NE and to curb insurgency in NE. But even despite many efforts, Myanmar is more inclined towards China, that is using Myanmar territory for its naval base as a part of its String Of Pearls strategy to encircle india in the Indian Ocean. This is a concern in Indo Myanmar relations.
(She looks much happier now....Passes the charge to 3rd member.
M3: So, you have been a student of IIT Roorkee. Can you tell me the history of IIT Roorkee?
Me:Yes Sir. IIT Roorkee initialy known as Thomason College of civil Engg.It was named after Lt Governor of Agra Province whose name was Thomason. It was created in 1847 after a famine in British times led to large revenue losses. The British decided to construct a canal from Haridwar to western UP to irrigate these lands. Therefore a need was felt for Civil engineers. And therefore under Lord Hardinge, this instn was created. After independence it was renamed University of Roorkee. In 2000, after Uttarakhand was separated from UP, it was named IIT Roorkee.
M3: Can you tell me what is this structure in Roorkee where there is a canal over river?
Me: Sir, it's called aqueduct.
M3: Tell me about Ganga Canal.
Me:I told him about the famine of 1837-38. The canal consists of an upper ganga canal from Har-Ki-Pauri in Haridwar to Aligarh and Lower Ganga Canal from Aligarh to Kanpur. Told them the distance of Canal and which governor general started its construction(now I can't recall)
M3:What is the river over which the canal is passing?
Me:Sir it's known as Solani. Similar to the aqueduct structure there are structures like superpassage wherein river flows over canal and a structure called siphon.
(He is looking visibly impressed..am glad all the research paid off)
M3: So you are an engg in Paper technology?
Me:Yes sir.
M3:Can we make paper out of weeds?
Me: Yes sir, if the weeds have vascular structure that will yield fibres.
M3: That would solve the problem of weeding then.(smiles to himself )
Me: I smile back.
M3:So where was paper first made.
Me:Sir, it was first made in Egypt from a plant called Papyrus, that's why the name paper.
M3:But people say it's China.
Me:Yes sir China later followed this practice and made it more sophisticated so that paper came in daily use.
M3: When was this?
Me: Sir it was around 2nd or 3rd century BC.
M3: Tell me something, who invented printing?
Me:(AAAAAAAAARRRGH) Sir I don't know. But I know that the person who invented the prniting press was Gutenberg.
M3:No, you tell me one thing. Why did it take printing to travel from China to Europe 400 years?
Me:(I am thinking...what?.. what is this question. The CM i slooking impatient as well) Sir,I am not aware of the reason.
(Thankfully the CM interrupts and said it's ok.)
M3:Tell me your hobby is teaching. Why does ragging take place ? there was a committee created for tackling ragging.
Me:I told him it was Raghavan committe. I told them the psychological and sociological reasons for ragging.
M3: Since your hobby is teaching,Tell me, what was the committe recently created for higher education reforms? (I am wondering why they are all fixated on my hobby only)
Me: Sir I am not very sure. But I think it was Yashpal committee.
(Everyone murmurs..yes yes)
M3: What were it's rcommendations?
Me: I told him about improving UGC affiliations, Deemed univ and so on.
CM interrupted- Enough. He gestured to the last member to start.
Somewhere I was getting apprehensive why the CM was getting impatient. Did he think I was no good and wanted to end the interview? But I found the answer in the end. You will also see that)
M4: Your extra curricular activities include athletics. What all did you participate in?
Me: I told them the activities I had participated in.
M4: Can you tell me some type of athletic events in which more than 2 types of athletic events are there.
Me: I told them 2.
M4: What are the special features of Indian Democracy?
Me: Parliamentary democracy, quasi federal structure, Independednt judiciary, Written constitution, supremacy of constitution etc etc.( I explained these also)
M4: Can you tell me the independent agencies under Indian Constitution?
Me: Told him SC, HC, EC, CAG, UPSC(along with the articles)
CM interrupted and said " enough". He apparently wanted to ask more questions.
CM: So you are from UP. Tell me the districts in Bundelkhand.
Me: (I remembered only 3) Sir, they are Jhansi, Mahoba and Banda. There are 2 3 more But I can't recall them.
CM: There are 4 more. Can you recall them?
Me: Sorry Sir, I can't.
CM: Do you know Hamirpur?
Me: Yes sir, its in Bundelkhand ( He then told me 3 more distts)
Me:Thank you sir.
CM: So, UP has been bifurcated . Most of the forest cover has gone to Uttarakhand. How would you go about reforestation in UP?
Me: Since the land-man ratio in UP is very low, we will need to find fallow land that can't be used for agricultural purposes. Also, we can promote social forestry.
Agricultural land can be bordered with trees. That would not just reduce soil erosion but also improve the water table. In addition, the local populace can benefit from Minor forest produce and timber.
CM: No Shubhra. These are conventional measures. I am looking for an innovative solution. An out-of -the-box solution. If you give me an innovative solution, you will make my day.
(To be honest, I had not felt this much pressure in the entire interview. My entire performance would be gauged by this last answer. I tried to think of a novel and innovative solution. But nothing worthwhile came to my mind. I took about 2 min to think but they seemd like hours as the board was waiting for my answer)
Me: Sir, i think we can make planting and maintaining trees an incentive scheme from the govt side. For eg, if one planted and maintained a tree, they can get subsidies on land, property, govt. schemes. There could be monetary incentives for people who took ownership for planting and maintaining trees.
(I was nervous if this solution clicked. To me, it was a very mediocre solution. In fact on my way back home, I thought of much more innovative solutions for this problem. But under that pressure, that was the best I could do. )
He smiled and said. "Thank you. Your interview is over."
I thanked them, got up and left.
The interview lasted 35 mins.
I reached UPSC by 12:15 pm. I kept waiting till we were allowed to go in. It was about 1:30 pm when I went in. I reached inside and saw the other candidates who were also there for their interviews. There were 7 tables around which 5 candidates were seated. The table decides which board you are going to be in. At around 2 pm, the candidates started going to their respective interview boards. We still didn't know our board. There were 4 other candidates with me who were going to be interviewed by the same board. There were 2 ladies, one from Maharashtra and one from Rajasthan, and there were 2 guys, one from IIT Chennai and the other I can't recall.
We kept waiting, meanwhile other boards had interviewed around 2 candidates. We were getting impatient and hungry too. The lady from Rajasthan opened her bag and got out a packet of biscuits. I thanked god and started eating them. we were speculating as to which board we would get. Finally someone came and told us that we were going to be interviewed by Mr. P K Mishra.
I was so disheartened. Last year, I had been interviewed by a new board member, Mr Purushottam Aggarwal. I was the 1st one to go in on the 1st day last year. In spite of having a wonderful interview, I got just 180. So, I was a little apprehensive as Mr P K Mishra was also a new member of UPSC.
Now, coming back to the table. Everyone was nervous. We were reading all the newspapers there, in case a question comes from any of the newspapers. Then we started talking and finally we were all relaxed.
I was the 3rd one to go in. So when finally the 1st guy was called to the interview, we heaved a sigh of relief. I was assuming that since the board had started late, they would not give us adequate time. I had been suffering from throat infection just before the interview, so was taking a vicks/strepsil all the time. When the 2nd guy from IIT Chennai went in, I started anticipating the interview.
Finally at 4 o clock, someone came to lead me to the board. Suddenly to my horror I realised that my mouth was so dry due to vicks/ strepsils. I didn't have water with me. I reached there and asked someone for water, but even after drinking water, my throat won't be better. I had about 3 glasses of water, that didn't help. I was cursing vicks/strepsils. I was thinking that a heavy throat was better than a dry one. What if I needed to drink water during the interview if my mouth dried again. Anyway, after 10 mins or so, the gentleman from IIT Chennai came out and told me that they were very cool. But that he had had just 15 mins with them.
Then they called for me. I composed myself, tried to forget my dry mouth and asked for their permission to enter the room. When I entered, I saw two lady members to the left of CM and 2 gentlemen to his right. I wished the ladies first and then the gentlemen. I stood next to the chair and waited for the CM's permission to sit down. He said "please be seated". I thanked him and sat down.
Now the interview starts:
CM: What's your name?
Me: Sir, My name is Shubhra Saxena
CM:Tell us about yourself
Me: I told them about my education, prof background, my family and so on.
CM:Can you tell us the immunisation schedule of children
(Now let me tell you v frankly that I was shocked and thrown off guard. Maybe he wanted to destabilise me to see if I maintained my cool.)
Me:Sir, I am not aware of the immunisation schedule of children. But I do know some vaccines for children.
CM: Fine, go ahead.
Me: There is DPT, that prevents Diptheria, Pertussis and Tetanus. And there is OPV, Oral polio vaccine.
CM: Can't you recall any more?
Me:Sorry Sir, I can't recall any more.
CM:Isn't there a vaccine for Hepatitis B?
Me:Sir there is, But I think it can be taken as an adult because I had this vaccine when I was in college.
CM: (Smiled) Yes but it is now given to children.
Me:I said, Thank you sir.
CM: Your hobbies include teaching. Can you tell us about that?
Me:Sir, I have liked teaching since childhood. I used to teach my younger siblings and the children of my colony. Now I teach some children of my maid servants.
CM:Tell us, who is a good teacher?
(I didn't understand the question but I nevertheless tried to answer.)
Me: A good teacher is the one who can conceptually explain topics to students. Someone who can motivate students to do better. Someone who can be a friend, philosopher and guide to students.
( He was apparently not satisfied with my answer.)
CM: No, tell me if you are teaching students in a class, how would you make sure that they followed what you were teaching?
Me: Sir, I would first try to understand the level of cognitive maturity of students. Then I would try to adjust the speed of teaching to suit most of the students because at any level of teaching not all students would be satisfied. I would include practical examples to make them understand the concepts better. The students who have somehow not grasped the things I taught them, I would give them time other than the class to make sure they understood it.
(he apparently was satisfied. So he let it go. He gestured to the 1st lady member on his left)
M1: Your hobby is teaching. So can you tell me about a few education schemes of GOI
Me: I told her about SSA. She inturrepted me.
M1: Can you tell us about SSA?
Me: I told her about a few provisions under SSA as I did not know all.
M1:Can you tell me if there are any provisions for handicapped children under SSA.
Me:Ma'm I am not sure if there are any. But there mustbe.
M1:(Looks at other members) aren' there? (Others nod)
Tell me about other education schemes?
Me: I told about MSA, MDM, KGBV , scholarship schemes for disadvantaged and backward students.
M1: (Interrupts)..That's fine. Your extra curricular activity said Debating. I will give you a topic. Can you debate on that.
Me: Yes ma'm.
M1: The topic is "Women should empower themselves"
Me: Ma'm should I debate in favour or against the topic?
M1: Whichever way you want
Me: May I speak both in favour and against the topic?
(I was a little apprehensive if this gamble would pay off. But it did. She didn't look offended.)
M1: Yes, go ahead.
Me:Argued first against the topic. Then later in favour of the topic.
M1:(looking very happy) Excellent Shubhra. You have argued well in both directions. But you forgot to mention the role of husbands.
Me:(I smiled) yes Ma'm. Thank you.
She now passed the charge to the next lady member..
M2: So Shubhra, you have stayed in many states. Which state have you stayed maximum in?
Me: Ma'm I have stayed for 16 years in Jharkhand and 12 years in UP and 2 years in AP.
M2: So can you please compare Jharkhand and UP?
Me: Yes Ma'm. Jharkhand and UP are topographically very diffrent states. Whereas JH has a hilly and forested terrain, UP is part of the Gangetic plain and very sparsely forested. UP is densely populated whereas JH has a low population density. JH has a sizeable tribal population mainly consisting of tribes like Santhal and Munda whereas UP has a low tribal population. Both the states primarily speak Hindi. In terms of HDI, both perform poorly.
M2: No, tell me what diff did you find on a personal level?
Me: Ma'm both states are culturally complex and offer a variety of ways of life. While I was growing up in Jharkhand I used to stay in isolated forested lands where sometimes wild animals like tiger would come into our colony. This is something I have never come across in UP. The food of these 2 states is more or less the same with a few regional variations. The people in both the states are very tolerant and loving and make one feel at home.
(Everyone smiled at the tiger comment)
She nods then asks.
M2: Tell me what is India's equation with Nepal?
Me: Ma'm Nepal has traditionally been a good friend of India's and India has always supported Nepal in many ways. But with the coming of Maoist government in Nepal, the equations are changing as Maoists are more sympathetic towards China. And therefore the hegemony of India in Nepal is weakening.
(She draws her eyebrows together as if frowning at me. I am telling you it was a scary moment)
M2: Do you think we should be using words like hegemony in context of international relations. India is a big country and shouldn't it allow her neighbour countries autonomy rather than dominating them?
Me: Ma'm, (how to redefine the meaning of hegemony???) , I didn't mean hegemony in the sense of controlling a smaller country for one's vested interests. I meant primacy in international relations.
India is a very big country and that is the reason most of her neighbours are insecure about India's intentions. But India is a very peaceful country and instead of dominating its neighbours she extends whatever support it can to her neighbours.
(again frowning....I am so scared now...)
M2: It is you who are saying that India is a peaceful country.But other countries don't think so.
Me: Ma'm, I have had the fortune to work abroad in many countries and everywhere I meet people they always say that India is perhaps the most peace loving country in the world.
(She looks satisfied now...I heave a sigh of relief)
M2: Tell me about India's relations with Myanmar.
Me: Relations between India and Myanmar haven't been very positive ever since the military junta took over control of that country since India had never supported the junta's rule in Myanmar. But lately, the contours of relations are changing for the better because India needs Myanmar for access to ASEAN route, for development of NE and to curb insurgency in NE. But even despite many efforts, Myanmar is more inclined towards China, that is using Myanmar territory for its naval base as a part of its String Of Pearls strategy to encircle india in the Indian Ocean. This is a concern in Indo Myanmar relations.
(She looks much happier now....Passes the charge to 3rd member.
M3: So, you have been a student of IIT Roorkee. Can you tell me the history of IIT Roorkee?
Me:Yes Sir. IIT Roorkee initialy known as Thomason College of civil Engg.It was named after Lt Governor of Agra Province whose name was Thomason. It was created in 1847 after a famine in British times led to large revenue losses. The British decided to construct a canal from Haridwar to western UP to irrigate these lands. Therefore a need was felt for Civil engineers. And therefore under Lord Hardinge, this instn was created. After independence it was renamed University of Roorkee. In 2000, after Uttarakhand was separated from UP, it was named IIT Roorkee.
M3: Can you tell me what is this structure in Roorkee where there is a canal over river?
Me: Sir, it's called aqueduct.
M3: Tell me about Ganga Canal.
Me:I told him about the famine of 1837-38. The canal consists of an upper ganga canal from Har-Ki-Pauri in Haridwar to Aligarh and Lower Ganga Canal from Aligarh to Kanpur. Told them the distance of Canal and which governor general started its construction(now I can't recall)
M3:What is the river over which the canal is passing?
Me:Sir it's known as Solani. Similar to the aqueduct structure there are structures like superpassage wherein river flows over canal and a structure called siphon.
(He is looking visibly impressed..am glad all the research paid off)
M3: So you are an engg in Paper technology?
Me:Yes sir.
M3:Can we make paper out of weeds?
Me: Yes sir, if the weeds have vascular structure that will yield fibres.
M3: That would solve the problem of weeding then.(smiles to himself )
Me: I smile back.
M3:So where was paper first made.
Me:Sir, it was first made in Egypt from a plant called Papyrus, that's why the name paper.
M3:But people say it's China.
Me:Yes sir China later followed this practice and made it more sophisticated so that paper came in daily use.
M3: When was this?
Me: Sir it was around 2nd or 3rd century BC.
M3: Tell me something, who invented printing?
Me:(AAAAAAAAARRRGH) Sir I don't know. But I know that the person who invented the prniting press was Gutenberg.
M3:No, you tell me one thing. Why did it take printing to travel from China to Europe 400 years?
Me:(I am thinking...what?.. what is this question. The CM i slooking impatient as well) Sir,I am not aware of the reason.
(Thankfully the CM interrupts and said it's ok.)
M3:Tell me your hobby is teaching. Why does ragging take place ? there was a committee created for tackling ragging.
Me:I told him it was Raghavan committe. I told them the psychological and sociological reasons for ragging.
M3: Since your hobby is teaching,Tell me, what was the committe recently created for higher education reforms? (I am wondering why they are all fixated on my hobby only)
Me: Sir I am not very sure. But I think it was Yashpal committee.
(Everyone murmurs..yes yes)
M3: What were it's rcommendations?
Me: I told him about improving UGC affiliations, Deemed univ and so on.
CM interrupted- Enough. He gestured to the last member to start.
Somewhere I was getting apprehensive why the CM was getting impatient. Did he think I was no good and wanted to end the interview? But I found the answer in the end. You will also see that)
M4: Your extra curricular activities include athletics. What all did you participate in?
Me: I told them the activities I had participated in.
M4: Can you tell me some type of athletic events in which more than 2 types of athletic events are there.
Me: I told them 2.
M4: What are the special features of Indian Democracy?
Me: Parliamentary democracy, quasi federal structure, Independednt judiciary, Written constitution, supremacy of constitution etc etc.( I explained these also)
M4: Can you tell me the independent agencies under Indian Constitution?
Me: Told him SC, HC, EC, CAG, UPSC(along with the articles)
CM interrupted and said " enough". He apparently wanted to ask more questions.
CM: So you are from UP. Tell me the districts in Bundelkhand.
Me: (I remembered only 3) Sir, they are Jhansi, Mahoba and Banda. There are 2 3 more But I can't recall them.
CM: There are 4 more. Can you recall them?
Me: Sorry Sir, I can't.
CM: Do you know Hamirpur?
Me: Yes sir, its in Bundelkhand ( He then told me 3 more distts)
Me:Thank you sir.
CM: So, UP has been bifurcated . Most of the forest cover has gone to Uttarakhand. How would you go about reforestation in UP?
Me: Since the land-man ratio in UP is very low, we will need to find fallow land that can't be used for agricultural purposes. Also, we can promote social forestry.
Agricultural land can be bordered with trees. That would not just reduce soil erosion but also improve the water table. In addition, the local populace can benefit from Minor forest produce and timber.
CM: No Shubhra. These are conventional measures. I am looking for an innovative solution. An out-of -the-box solution. If you give me an innovative solution, you will make my day.
(To be honest, I had not felt this much pressure in the entire interview. My entire performance would be gauged by this last answer. I tried to think of a novel and innovative solution. But nothing worthwhile came to my mind. I took about 2 min to think but they seemd like hours as the board was waiting for my answer)
Me: Sir, i think we can make planting and maintaining trees an incentive scheme from the govt side. For eg, if one planted and maintained a tree, they can get subsidies on land, property, govt. schemes. There could be monetary incentives for people who took ownership for planting and maintaining trees.
(I was nervous if this solution clicked. To me, it was a very mediocre solution. In fact on my way back home, I thought of much more innovative solutions for this problem. But under that pressure, that was the best I could do. )
He smiled and said. "Thank you. Your interview is over."
I thanked them, got up and left.
The interview lasted 35 mins.
PREVIOUS PAPERS LINKS
PREVIOUS PAPERS
-----------------------
http://upscportal.com/civilservices/IAS_Civil_Services_Downloads_Old
http://examrace.com/IAS_previousyrmainoptionalpapers.aspx
for CSAT which is new in the syllabus, you have to practise reasoning and aptitude and english
from previous banking exam papers so that you will get an idea about the exam pattern
http://www.win4exams.com/free_material.php
http://way2freshers.com
http://www.scribd.com/doc/12750083/Bank-Exam-Solved-Question-Papers
-----------------------
http://upscportal.com/civilservices/IAS_Civil_Services_Downloads_Old
http://examrace.com/IAS_previousyrmainoptionalpapers.aspx
for CSAT which is new in the syllabus, you have to practise reasoning and aptitude and english
from previous banking exam papers so that you will get an idea about the exam pattern
http://www.win4exams.com/free_material.php
http://way2freshers.com
http://www.scribd.com/doc/12750083/Bank-Exam-Solved-Question-Papers
Some useful general Websites
Some useful general Websites
------------------------------
http://www.india.gov.in/
http://www.frontlineonnet.com/
http://www.yojana.gov.in/
http://www.competitionmaster.com/
http://indiacode.nic.in/coiweb/welcome.html
http://www.mppolice.gov.in/Static/IPC%20and%20CrPC/IPC/ipcmain.htm
------------------------------
http://www.india.gov.in/
http://www.frontlineonnet.com/
http://www.yojana.gov.in/
http://www.competitionmaster.com/
http://indiacode.nic.in/coiweb/welcome.html
http://www.mppolice.gov.in/Static/IPC%20and%20CrPC/IPC/ipcmain.htm
ONLINE CURRENT AFFAIRS WEBSITES
ONLINE CURRENT AFFAIRS WEBSITES
-----------------------------------------------
http://www.indiasummary.com/2010/07/
http://www.currentgk.com/gk/abbreviations.html
http://www.gktoday.in/2010/01/current-affairs-2010-national-january-1.html
http://www.civilserviceindia.com/current-affairs/august.html
http://upscportal.com/civilservices/QUIZ
-----------------------------------------------
http://www.indiasummary.com/2010/07/
http://www.currentgk.com/gk/abbreviations.html
http://www.gktoday.in/2010/01/current-affairs-2010-national-january-1.html
http://www.civilserviceindia.com/current-affairs/august.html
http://upscportal.com/civilservices/QUIZ
ONLINE GK WEBSITES
ONLINE GK WEBSITES
---------------------------
http://www.onlinegk.com/general-knowledge/
http://www.webindia123.com/government/award/asp/index.asp
http://www.csgsindia.com/InfoBits.asp?Topic=Per&SubName=Person
http://www.onlinegkguide.com/2009/04/03/important-and-famous-books-written-by-indian-authors/
http://www.historytution.com/pre_historic_cultures_in_india/basis_for_periodization.html
---------------------------
http://www.onlinegk.com/general-knowledge/
http://www.webindia123.com/government/award/asp/index.asp
http://www.csgsindia.com/InfoBits.asp?Topic=Per&SubName=Person
http://www.onlinegkguide.com/2009/04/03/important-and-famous-books-written-by-indian-authors/
http://www.historytution.com/pre_historic_cultures_in_india/basis_for_periodization.html
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
General Instructions (Preliminary as well as Main Examination)
General Instructions (Preliminary as well as Main Examination) :
• If a candidate’s handwriting is not easily legible, a deduction will be made on this account from the total marks otherwise accruing to him.
• Marks will not be allotted for mere superficial knowledge.
• Credit will be given for orderly, effective and exact expression combined with due economy of words in all subjects of the examination.
• In the question papers, wherever required, SI units will be used.
• Candidates should use only international form of Indian numerals (i.e.1,2,3,4,5,6 etc.) while answering question papers.
• Candidates will be allowed the use of Scientific (Non-Programmable type)calculators at the Main examination of UPSC. Programmable type calculators will however not be allowed and the use of such calculators shall tantamount to resorting to unfair means by the candidates. Loaning or interchanging of calculators in the Examination Hall is not permitted. It is also important to
note that candidates are not permitted to use calculators for Preliminary Examination.
The Main Examination is the most important stage of the exam. If you are well prepared for the mains, then a good foundation for your success is made. The risk involved with the interview can also be reduced with good performance in MainExamination. Always target the Mains Exam and make clearing the Prelims an incidental objective and a passing phase in the path of your goal. If you always focus on Prelims result and don't think of Mains till the Prelims results are out, you will end up as a looser because there is hardly any time left for a thorough preparation. So always aim at the Mains.
Note :
• Your answer in the exam is the only medium through which you can convey to the examiner. So you should always think as to how to impress the examiner with the answer. Your pen, handwriting, writing style, logical presentation,innovations, relevance to the question, etc, everything matters. Be careful about these aspects right from the beginning.
• The final two months should be devoted to repeated revisions.
• The writing practice within time limit should be done from the beginning. This will help in understanding what you can remember and reproduce within the time limit. If you do this as the preparation progresses then the study will be exam-oriented.
• Improve your handwriting if it is bad. Your handwriting should at least be easily legible.
• You can use colour pens when you draw figures, diagrams etc.
• While writing answers, focus on good introductions and conclusions. The presentation should be logical. The introduction should introduce the reader about the path he is about to take and whats in stored for him. It should raise the curiosity of the reader. While, the conclusion should sum up what the reader has gone through in the path. There should be a balanced judgement in
the conclusions. (This is suggestible only for 30 and 60 marks questions)
• You need not have a very good vocabulary or scholarly writing style. It is sufficient if you can present your answer in a simple logical manner.
• Your aim should be to score equally well in all the papers. In general, you should get above 300 in optionals and the GS. Depending on your strong areas you should get more marks in some papers. The essay score should be above 100. In this way, if you can get around 1100, then the position will be very
strong.
• The presentation is to be practiced well. Do not dump the information in the exam, but present it in a logical and attractive manner.The point form can be used only for some factual areas. Other wise, paragraph mode with good analysis should be used.
• Read the question carefully and grasp the aspect being asked. The answer should be relevant to what is being asked.
ESSAY :
The essay paper (200 marks) in the civil services main examination is crucial in determining the final outcome/ selection and ranking. It is decisive because there is no specialization in an essay and so no aspirant can claim expertise, unlike optional subjects.
Essay paper does not have a source of definitive information as in the case of general studies or optional subjects. This constitutes a challenge. It is vital to understand that an essay is a reflection of the personality - ideas, views, analysis, assessments and inferences, values, attitude, aptitude, orientation and communication (written) abilities, all the attributes that are wanted by UPSC in an aspirant.
General trend is that essay paper will contain 6 topics out of which one topic to be chosen. There is no syllabus for essay. Anything under sun can be asked. But, if we analyse previous year paper, it is conspicuous to find some root topics. For example, there is at least one question on women empowerment every year. So, the topic ‘Women Empowerment’ is a root topic.
Suggested Root Topics :
1. Women Empowerment
2. Environment, S&T, Energy Security, Sustainable Development
3. Democracy, judiciary and related topics
4. Education, Indian Culture
5. Current Events
Suggested Reading :
a) Yojana issues
b) Frontline cover stories
c) “The Hindu” Sunday Magazines
Groundwork Preparation :
The duration of the essay paper is 3 hours and the word limit is not mentioned. It is generally said that 1500-2000 words should make a good essay. This can comfortably be written even with a moderate pace in 2 to 2 ½ hours. So the first 30-45 minutes can be spent for the groundwork preparation. First is the selection of the proper essay topic. Out of the 6 topics, one topic would generally be related to philosophical issue, unless one is confident it is better to opt it out. Like wise one can eliminate topics with which one is not comfortable. Some topics, most of the aspirants cannot maintain a balance throughout the essay so better opt them also out. Finally select the topic that you think can do justice. The answer booklet of the main examination consists of 24 single pages. The last 3-4 pages can be used for rough work. If you are sure that you can complete the main booklet, then ask for one additional at the beginning of the exam and use it for rough work.
• If a candidate’s handwriting is not easily legible, a deduction will be made on this account from the total marks otherwise accruing to him.
• Marks will not be allotted for mere superficial knowledge.
• Credit will be given for orderly, effective and exact expression combined with due economy of words in all subjects of the examination.
• In the question papers, wherever required, SI units will be used.
• Candidates should use only international form of Indian numerals (i.e.1,2,3,4,5,6 etc.) while answering question papers.
• Candidates will be allowed the use of Scientific (Non-Programmable type)calculators at the Main examination of UPSC. Programmable type calculators will however not be allowed and the use of such calculators shall tantamount to resorting to unfair means by the candidates. Loaning or interchanging of calculators in the Examination Hall is not permitted. It is also important to
note that candidates are not permitted to use calculators for Preliminary Examination.
The Main Examination is the most important stage of the exam. If you are well prepared for the mains, then a good foundation for your success is made. The risk involved with the interview can also be reduced with good performance in MainExamination. Always target the Mains Exam and make clearing the Prelims an incidental objective and a passing phase in the path of your goal. If you always focus on Prelims result and don't think of Mains till the Prelims results are out, you will end up as a looser because there is hardly any time left for a thorough preparation. So always aim at the Mains.
Note :
• Your answer in the exam is the only medium through which you can convey to the examiner. So you should always think as to how to impress the examiner with the answer. Your pen, handwriting, writing style, logical presentation,innovations, relevance to the question, etc, everything matters. Be careful about these aspects right from the beginning.
• The final two months should be devoted to repeated revisions.
• The writing practice within time limit should be done from the beginning. This will help in understanding what you can remember and reproduce within the time limit. If you do this as the preparation progresses then the study will be exam-oriented.
• Improve your handwriting if it is bad. Your handwriting should at least be easily legible.
• You can use colour pens when you draw figures, diagrams etc.
• While writing answers, focus on good introductions and conclusions. The presentation should be logical. The introduction should introduce the reader about the path he is about to take and whats in stored for him. It should raise the curiosity of the reader. While, the conclusion should sum up what the reader has gone through in the path. There should be a balanced judgement in
the conclusions. (This is suggestible only for 30 and 60 marks questions)
• You need not have a very good vocabulary or scholarly writing style. It is sufficient if you can present your answer in a simple logical manner.
• Your aim should be to score equally well in all the papers. In general, you should get above 300 in optionals and the GS. Depending on your strong areas you should get more marks in some papers. The essay score should be above 100. In this way, if you can get around 1100, then the position will be very
strong.
• The presentation is to be practiced well. Do not dump the information in the exam, but present it in a logical and attractive manner.The point form can be used only for some factual areas. Other wise, paragraph mode with good analysis should be used.
• Read the question carefully and grasp the aspect being asked. The answer should be relevant to what is being asked.
ESSAY :
The essay paper (200 marks) in the civil services main examination is crucial in determining the final outcome/ selection and ranking. It is decisive because there is no specialization in an essay and so no aspirant can claim expertise, unlike optional subjects.
Essay paper does not have a source of definitive information as in the case of general studies or optional subjects. This constitutes a challenge. It is vital to understand that an essay is a reflection of the personality - ideas, views, analysis, assessments and inferences, values, attitude, aptitude, orientation and communication (written) abilities, all the attributes that are wanted by UPSC in an aspirant.
General trend is that essay paper will contain 6 topics out of which one topic to be chosen. There is no syllabus for essay. Anything under sun can be asked. But, if we analyse previous year paper, it is conspicuous to find some root topics. For example, there is at least one question on women empowerment every year. So, the topic ‘Women Empowerment’ is a root topic.
Suggested Root Topics :
1. Women Empowerment
2. Environment, S&T, Energy Security, Sustainable Development
3. Democracy, judiciary and related topics
4. Education, Indian Culture
5. Current Events
Suggested Reading :
a) Yojana issues
b) Frontline cover stories
c) “The Hindu” Sunday Magazines
Groundwork Preparation :
The duration of the essay paper is 3 hours and the word limit is not mentioned. It is generally said that 1500-2000 words should make a good essay. This can comfortably be written even with a moderate pace in 2 to 2 ½ hours. So the first 30-45 minutes can be spent for the groundwork preparation. First is the selection of the proper essay topic. Out of the 6 topics, one topic would generally be related to philosophical issue, unless one is confident it is better to opt it out. Like wise one can eliminate topics with which one is not comfortable. Some topics, most of the aspirants cannot maintain a balance throughout the essay so better opt them also out. Finally select the topic that you think can do justice. The answer booklet of the main examination consists of 24 single pages. The last 3-4 pages can be used for rough work. If you are sure that you can complete the main booklet, then ask for one additional at the beginning of the exam and use it for rough work.
Monday, November 22, 2010
INTERVIEW OF MUTYALA RAJU
INTERVIEW OF MUTYALA RAJU :
Raju: May I come in Sir?
Chairman: Yes, please.
Raju: Good morning, Sir. Good morning, Madam. Good morning, Sirs.
Chairman: You are Mr...
Raju: (Still in standing position), Matyalaraju Revu Sir.
(Chairman is writing something. Other members are keenly watching the candidate.)
Member 2: Please take your seat.
Raju: Thank you, sir.
Chairman: Mr. Revu, You did B.Tech from REC Warangal, ME from IISc, Bangalore. But why did you do diploma?
Raju: Sir, After completion of my 10th class, based on my financial background, my father joined me in polytechnic. After completion of polytechnic, we do get jobs. Also, since I will get scholarship, the amount of money spent on me is less.
Chairman: That means you will get job after diploma.
Raju: Yes Sir, I got a private job. Company is Cain energy limited.
Chairman: Then, why did you join B.Tech?
Raju: Sir, After completion of my diploma, I wrote ECET and I got state 1st rank. So I convinced my father that I will join REC which is a premier Engineering institute in our state.
Chairman: Then, you joined ME because your father insisted on that?
Raju: No Sir, It is based on my project guide ճ suggestion.
Sir, infact there are two streams to enter into B.Tech. One through EAMCET after Intermediate and other is through ECET. After ECET...
Chairman: What question I have asked?
Raju: Sorry Sir, you have asked me why I joined ME after B.Tech.
Chairman: OK. Then stick on to the question.
Raju: Sir, I am explaining it.
Chairman: Be specific.
Raju: OK sir, during my final year I got all India rank 3 in Gate. My guide on knowing this result suggested me to join IISc. He further told that this is the golden opportunity for me. ԉf you miss it you will not get it again! ՠ he told sir. Then, I informed about my career option as civil services. He then convinced me by saying that I can write civil services after M.E. also.
Chairman: That means you are preparing for civil services while you are in IISc?
Raju: I beg to differ with you sir. I started my preparation only after completion of M.E.
Chairman: You have written that you joined Railways in September 2004. That is of which exam?
Raju: Sir, This is based on IES-2003.
Chairman: That means you are in IISc.
Raju: Sir, I completed my second semester at that time.
Chairman: That means you have prepared for IES in IISc.
Raju: Sir, I have given IES in my own background i.e., Electrical Engineering. Hence I need not prepare much for this exam. I just gave the exam.
Chairman: For how many years you are in Railways?
Raju: Sir, I joined Railways on September 2004. Then I took leave for 1 year, i.e., leave on loss of pay.
Chairman: What did you do in that year?
Raju: Sir, I have prepared for this exam.
Chairman: How many months you are in Railways?
Raju: Sir, roughly 5 months.
Chairman: That means you are in Railways till February.
Raju: Sir, I am in Railways till the result of civil services exam 2005 was out. I was given leave for interview preparation in March.
Chairman: Then what did you do after the declaration of the result?
Raju: Sir, Once the result of out, I came to know that I will get IPS. So, I convinced my director for leave to appear civil services again. My director gave me leave.
Chairman: When did you join IPS?
Raju: Sir, I joined IPS on December 18, 2006.
Chairman: Which part of training you missed?
Raju: Sir, I missed foundation training in Mussorie. At SVPNPA, training started on December 18, 2006. So, I haven մ missed any training at Hyderabad.
Chairman: How many days you have taken leave for interview?
Raju: Sir, 4 days.
Member 2: How was your IPS training?
Raju: Sir, training is good and we are enjoying every aspect of training.
member 2: What are you learning in training?
Raju: Sir, our training is divided into two parts. Indoor and outdoor. In indoor, we have subjects like police in modern India, criminology and law subjects like IE Act, CrPC, IPC and other subjects.
Member 2: You are in IPS for 4 months. So I can ask some questions.
Raju: Yes, sir.
Member 2: Do you aware that the confession admitted to police is not allowed as witness. Why?
Raju: Yes sir. Confession admitted to police is not allowed as witness. Since there is always a possibility of getting the confession in the way the police like, law doesn մ allow it.
Member 2: What is Res gestae?
Raju: Sir, All the circumstances leading to the same transaction are allowable as evidence.
Member 2: You are on the line. Could you explain more?
Raju: (after 2-3 seconds), If some people wanted to commit dacoity and in the process if they theft a vehicle, eventhough theft of vehicle is not connected with dacoity but it is admissible as it forms the circumstance leading to dacoity.
Member 2: Could you tell me the section which deals with Res gestae?
Raju: Sorry sir, I could not remember the exact section.
Member 2: Then how sections you were taught in IE Act?
Raju: Sir, In our academy our sirs are not teaching according to sections. They are teaching the sections which are more useful for the police at first.
Member 2: Do you aware of RTI?
Raju: Yes. Sir. It is Right to Information Act.
Member 2: What are the provisions in RTI?
Raju: Sir, According to provisions of RTI, every government department has to nominate one officer as information commissioner to give information about duties, responsibilities and functions of various officers working in those departments...
Member 2: Then what is the benefit to common man?
Raju: Sir, Common man can know the functions, duties & responsibilities of various officers. They can know the status of their applications. This also increases transparency and accountability of officers. Hence reduces corruption.
Member 2: How can you say that people will get required information?
Raju: Sir, There is a provision in RTI that any one who refuses to give information or delays 30 days for giving information, they are liable for cut in salary.
Member 2: How much salary cut?
Raju: Sir, I think it is 250 Rs./ day.
Member 2: It is not cut from salary. It is separately cut.
Raju: Thank you Sir.
Member 2: Can you tell me what is the maximum limit?
Raju: Sorry sir, I don մ know.
Chairman: Your hobbies are meditation, motivating others and Indian Mythology. Don մ you think that all are inward looking?
Raju: Sir, Whenever possible I play cricket in addition my hobbies, which is a team game.
Member 2: Tell me which countries will reach final in the present world cup?
Raju: Sir, I think Australia and Srilanka.
Member 2: Already two countries reached semifinals i.e., Sri Lanka & Newzealand. What do you think about other two?
Raju: Sir, I beg to differ with you. Actually three countries i.e., Srilanka, New Zealand and Australia reached semifinals. 4th team depends on the outcome of the today ճ match between England & South Africa.
Member 2: Do you know about fly ash?
Raju: Sir, Thermal power stations produce fly ash while generating electrical power.
Member 2: Which state is using it more? Definitely it is not Haryana, My own state.
Raju: Sorry Sir, I don մ know.
Member 3 : (X-A) (X-B) has highest X power of 2. Do you agree?
Raju: Yes, Sir.
Member 3: (X-A) (X-B) (X-C) has highest X power...
Raju: 3, Sir.
Member 3: Then, tell me. What is the answer for (X-A) (X-B).... (X-Z).
Raju: (after 3-4 seconds), It must be Zero. Sir, because of the presence of the term (X-X).
Member 3: Whom do you think a greatest mathematician of all times?
Raju: Sir, Srinivasa Ramanujan, because even though he lived for only 33 years, he contributed more to mathematics in the areas like Numerical methods, Solution of algebraic equations, number theory like prime numbers etc.
Member 3: Can you tell me the formula for prime numbers?
Raju: Sir, exactly I don մ know but recently IIT, Kanpur professor along with his students wrote a software program which gives whether a number is prime or not within less time.
Member 3: You are an electrical engineer. Tell me where prime numbers are used?
Raju: Sir, they are used in coding.
Member 3: I am asking a question in your engineering only. Tell me how prime numbers are used in coding?
Raju: Sir, exactly I don մ know. But to the best of my knowledge, if the code length is prime, decoding and encoding are easy.
Member 3: You are on the line, but not exact answer.
Member 1: Your hobbies are meditation, motivating others and Indian Mythology. What you do in motivation?
Raju: Madam, many of classmates and Juniors came to me for clearing their doubts in subjects as I am the toper of my class. I usually listen to their problems regarding their understanding of concepts as many have problems either in one or many subjects. I tell them that every subject is easy if knew the concepts clear and we should like the subject what we are studying...
Madam: Do your response same for all?
Raju: Madam, I usually spend more time with those who are very much lagging. I take classes to clear their doubts.
Madam: Then do you call it motivation or strategic learning?
Raju: Madam, strategic learning may be the correct term.
Madam: What is the difference between these two?
Raju: Madam, motivation is a general term which includes not only academic motivation but also others like psychological, etc., Madam, I don մ know exactly the meaning of strategic learning.
Madam: Which books you read in Indian Mythology?
Raju: Madam, I read Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Madam: Since your hobbies are motivating others and Indian Mythology, tell me how Krishna motivated Arjuna?
Raju: Madam, When Arjuna refused to fight with friends, teachers, Krishna told him that it is the duty of the king to protect Dharma and fight wars for protecting it. We should not move away from our duty. Since soul is immortal and of which is born, death is certain, of which death happened, birth is certain. Hence you should not think that you are committing crime. Also he motivated him by saying that we should do our work only. We should not think about the results of our actions. Otherwise, attachment to the results will occur which is a major reason for unhappiness.
Madam: Do you practise it?
Raju: Madam, It is very difficult to practise.
Madam: Why?
Raju: Madam, for example, if we are about to play a cricket match, we will think about the winning of the match which is actually the result of the playing that match.
Madam: One last question. What kind of training our team got during our last year world cup?
Raju: Madam, exactly I am not able to recollect it. But it is like ҷe can do it this time Ӽ /span>
Madam: Sorry, It is not last year world cup but it is 2003 world cup. The team was given psychological training.
Raju: Yes, Madam
Member 4: You studied your B.Tech. from REC Warangal and M.E. from IISc Bangalore. Do you proud of your institutions like IISc?
Raju: Sir, I am proud that I have studied in a great institution like IISc, which according UNESCO survey conducted in 1997 was in 18th place among world universities. Recently a Chinese university conducted a survey in which IISc was placed at around 250th position.
Member 4: Do you think that 250th position is a good position?
Raju: Sir, even though it is not a good position, the position depended on the parameters they have taken into consideration like no. of nobel laureates present, no. of research papers presented, etc.
Member 4: Who are nobel laureate present in IISc?
Raju: Sir, now there is no nobel laureate in IISc. Earlier Sir C.V.Raman worked in IISc. Now, there are two internationally reputed professors working there.
Member 4: Last year government proposed to stop B.Tech entry into IITs. Do you support that?
Raju: Sir, I support it. Sir, due to hectic schedule, the professors of IITs are not able to concentrate much on research. Once the B.Tech entry is stopped, they will get more time for research and quality of research will increase.
Member 4: Don մ you think the quality of B.Tech students will reduce as IITs are known for better professors?
Raju: Sir, those students who are earlier eligible for entry into IITs, they will join NITs. Since they are the core students I don մ think the quality will reduce. But the professors in other institutes should get sufficient training to reach the level of IIT professors.
Member 4: You agree to that proposal. But the government has withdrawn the proposal due to very good argument against it. Can you tell me?
Raju: Sorry sir, I don մ know.
Member 4: What do you think is responsible for reduction in research?
Raju: Sir, IISc is not able to retain those students who completed M.E. and other courses there. One reason is brain drain, Sir. Second one is that research is not attractive in India, Sir. For example, in our batch out of 230 students who completed M.E. only 2 joined for Ph.D. in IISc. At the end of our M.E. we got campus placements. The minimum salary is around 6 lakhs/ annum. It is attracting most of us. Those who are really interested in research, they are going abroad as they will get more money and research is attractive there. Here, a Ph.D. student gets 12,000 - 15,000 Rs per month. Also material considerations have risen these days, sir. We have to include some compulsory courses in morale & ethics to stop this.
Member 4: Instead of choosing job or research, why did you choose services as career option?
Raju: Sir, The incident that took place in my village in November 2000, when I am in 3rd year of B.Tech, has changed my career options. Nearby Engineering college students came to our village for picnic as our village has excellent beach. 7 of them drowned in the Bay of Bengal and all of them has taken sand into their lungs in addition to water. Since our village is an island, there are no transportation, medical & meagre educational facilities, it took 2 hours to reach nearest town which is 16 Km away from my village. By that time, 6 out 7 were died, Sir.
Chairman: You are telling about an incident in your village. In that case who will respond first?
Raju: (3-4 seconds silence)
Chairman: Whether it is Block development officer, Doctor, or Police.
Raju: Sir, It is the police to respond first.
Chairman: Then, you are in IPS. Why did you come?
Raju: Sir, even for police it took 2 hours to reach that place as there is not enough transportation facilities.
Chairman: Thank you.
Raju: Thank you, Sir. Thank you, Madam. Thank you, Sirs
This has become a very important component. The preparation should be continuous from the sources given in mains strategy. The notes should be focused on the factual aspects that come in the news. Many questions are asked from this area, so prepare
thoroughly. The efforts will be useful for all stages of the exam. It should become a part of your daily routine.
Raju: May I come in Sir?
Chairman: Yes, please.
Raju: Good morning, Sir. Good morning, Madam. Good morning, Sirs.
Chairman: You are Mr...
Raju: (Still in standing position), Matyalaraju Revu Sir.
(Chairman is writing something. Other members are keenly watching the candidate.)
Member 2: Please take your seat.
Raju: Thank you, sir.
Chairman: Mr. Revu, You did B.Tech from REC Warangal, ME from IISc, Bangalore. But why did you do diploma?
Raju: Sir, After completion of my 10th class, based on my financial background, my father joined me in polytechnic. After completion of polytechnic, we do get jobs. Also, since I will get scholarship, the amount of money spent on me is less.
Chairman: That means you will get job after diploma.
Raju: Yes Sir, I got a private job. Company is Cain energy limited.
Chairman: Then, why did you join B.Tech?
Raju: Sir, After completion of my diploma, I wrote ECET and I got state 1st rank. So I convinced my father that I will join REC which is a premier Engineering institute in our state.
Chairman: Then, you joined ME because your father insisted on that?
Raju: No Sir, It is based on my project guide ճ suggestion.
Sir, infact there are two streams to enter into B.Tech. One through EAMCET after Intermediate and other is through ECET. After ECET...
Chairman: What question I have asked?
Raju: Sorry Sir, you have asked me why I joined ME after B.Tech.
Chairman: OK. Then stick on to the question.
Raju: Sir, I am explaining it.
Chairman: Be specific.
Raju: OK sir, during my final year I got all India rank 3 in Gate. My guide on knowing this result suggested me to join IISc. He further told that this is the golden opportunity for me. ԉf you miss it you will not get it again! ՠ he told sir. Then, I informed about my career option as civil services. He then convinced me by saying that I can write civil services after M.E. also.
Chairman: That means you are preparing for civil services while you are in IISc?
Raju: I beg to differ with you sir. I started my preparation only after completion of M.E.
Chairman: You have written that you joined Railways in September 2004. That is of which exam?
Raju: Sir, This is based on IES-2003.
Chairman: That means you are in IISc.
Raju: Sir, I completed my second semester at that time.
Chairman: That means you have prepared for IES in IISc.
Raju: Sir, I have given IES in my own background i.e., Electrical Engineering. Hence I need not prepare much for this exam. I just gave the exam.
Chairman: For how many years you are in Railways?
Raju: Sir, I joined Railways on September 2004. Then I took leave for 1 year, i.e., leave on loss of pay.
Chairman: What did you do in that year?
Raju: Sir, I have prepared for this exam.
Chairman: How many months you are in Railways?
Raju: Sir, roughly 5 months.
Chairman: That means you are in Railways till February.
Raju: Sir, I am in Railways till the result of civil services exam 2005 was out. I was given leave for interview preparation in March.
Chairman: Then what did you do after the declaration of the result?
Raju: Sir, Once the result of out, I came to know that I will get IPS. So, I convinced my director for leave to appear civil services again. My director gave me leave.
Chairman: When did you join IPS?
Raju: Sir, I joined IPS on December 18, 2006.
Chairman: Which part of training you missed?
Raju: Sir, I missed foundation training in Mussorie. At SVPNPA, training started on December 18, 2006. So, I haven մ missed any training at Hyderabad.
Chairman: How many days you have taken leave for interview?
Raju: Sir, 4 days.
Member 2: How was your IPS training?
Raju: Sir, training is good and we are enjoying every aspect of training.
member 2: What are you learning in training?
Raju: Sir, our training is divided into two parts. Indoor and outdoor. In indoor, we have subjects like police in modern India, criminology and law subjects like IE Act, CrPC, IPC and other subjects.
Member 2: You are in IPS for 4 months. So I can ask some questions.
Raju: Yes, sir.
Member 2: Do you aware that the confession admitted to police is not allowed as witness. Why?
Raju: Yes sir. Confession admitted to police is not allowed as witness. Since there is always a possibility of getting the confession in the way the police like, law doesn մ allow it.
Member 2: What is Res gestae?
Raju: Sir, All the circumstances leading to the same transaction are allowable as evidence.
Member 2: You are on the line. Could you explain more?
Raju: (after 2-3 seconds), If some people wanted to commit dacoity and in the process if they theft a vehicle, eventhough theft of vehicle is not connected with dacoity but it is admissible as it forms the circumstance leading to dacoity.
Member 2: Could you tell me the section which deals with Res gestae?
Raju: Sorry sir, I could not remember the exact section.
Member 2: Then how sections you were taught in IE Act?
Raju: Sir, In our academy our sirs are not teaching according to sections. They are teaching the sections which are more useful for the police at first.
Member 2: Do you aware of RTI?
Raju: Yes. Sir. It is Right to Information Act.
Member 2: What are the provisions in RTI?
Raju: Sir, According to provisions of RTI, every government department has to nominate one officer as information commissioner to give information about duties, responsibilities and functions of various officers working in those departments...
Member 2: Then what is the benefit to common man?
Raju: Sir, Common man can know the functions, duties & responsibilities of various officers. They can know the status of their applications. This also increases transparency and accountability of officers. Hence reduces corruption.
Member 2: How can you say that people will get required information?
Raju: Sir, There is a provision in RTI that any one who refuses to give information or delays 30 days for giving information, they are liable for cut in salary.
Member 2: How much salary cut?
Raju: Sir, I think it is 250 Rs./ day.
Member 2: It is not cut from salary. It is separately cut.
Raju: Thank you Sir.
Member 2: Can you tell me what is the maximum limit?
Raju: Sorry sir, I don մ know.
Chairman: Your hobbies are meditation, motivating others and Indian Mythology. Don մ you think that all are inward looking?
Raju: Sir, Whenever possible I play cricket in addition my hobbies, which is a team game.
Member 2: Tell me which countries will reach final in the present world cup?
Raju: Sir, I think Australia and Srilanka.
Member 2: Already two countries reached semifinals i.e., Sri Lanka & Newzealand. What do you think about other two?
Raju: Sir, I beg to differ with you. Actually three countries i.e., Srilanka, New Zealand and Australia reached semifinals. 4th team depends on the outcome of the today ճ match between England & South Africa.
Member 2: Do you know about fly ash?
Raju: Sir, Thermal power stations produce fly ash while generating electrical power.
Member 2: Which state is using it more? Definitely it is not Haryana, My own state.
Raju: Sorry Sir, I don մ know.
Member 3 : (X-A) (X-B) has highest X power of 2. Do you agree?
Raju: Yes, Sir.
Member 3: (X-A) (X-B) (X-C) has highest X power...
Raju: 3, Sir.
Member 3: Then, tell me. What is the answer for (X-A) (X-B).... (X-Z).
Raju: (after 3-4 seconds), It must be Zero. Sir, because of the presence of the term (X-X).
Member 3: Whom do you think a greatest mathematician of all times?
Raju: Sir, Srinivasa Ramanujan, because even though he lived for only 33 years, he contributed more to mathematics in the areas like Numerical methods, Solution of algebraic equations, number theory like prime numbers etc.
Member 3: Can you tell me the formula for prime numbers?
Raju: Sir, exactly I don մ know but recently IIT, Kanpur professor along with his students wrote a software program which gives whether a number is prime or not within less time.
Member 3: You are an electrical engineer. Tell me where prime numbers are used?
Raju: Sir, they are used in coding.
Member 3: I am asking a question in your engineering only. Tell me how prime numbers are used in coding?
Raju: Sir, exactly I don մ know. But to the best of my knowledge, if the code length is prime, decoding and encoding are easy.
Member 3: You are on the line, but not exact answer.
Member 1: Your hobbies are meditation, motivating others and Indian Mythology. What you do in motivation?
Raju: Madam, many of classmates and Juniors came to me for clearing their doubts in subjects as I am the toper of my class. I usually listen to their problems regarding their understanding of concepts as many have problems either in one or many subjects. I tell them that every subject is easy if knew the concepts clear and we should like the subject what we are studying...
Madam: Do your response same for all?
Raju: Madam, I usually spend more time with those who are very much lagging. I take classes to clear their doubts.
Madam: Then do you call it motivation or strategic learning?
Raju: Madam, strategic learning may be the correct term.
Madam: What is the difference between these two?
Raju: Madam, motivation is a general term which includes not only academic motivation but also others like psychological, etc., Madam, I don մ know exactly the meaning of strategic learning.
Madam: Which books you read in Indian Mythology?
Raju: Madam, I read Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Madam: Since your hobbies are motivating others and Indian Mythology, tell me how Krishna motivated Arjuna?
Raju: Madam, When Arjuna refused to fight with friends, teachers, Krishna told him that it is the duty of the king to protect Dharma and fight wars for protecting it. We should not move away from our duty. Since soul is immortal and of which is born, death is certain, of which death happened, birth is certain. Hence you should not think that you are committing crime. Also he motivated him by saying that we should do our work only. We should not think about the results of our actions. Otherwise, attachment to the results will occur which is a major reason for unhappiness.
Madam: Do you practise it?
Raju: Madam, It is very difficult to practise.
Madam: Why?
Raju: Madam, for example, if we are about to play a cricket match, we will think about the winning of the match which is actually the result of the playing that match.
Madam: One last question. What kind of training our team got during our last year world cup?
Raju: Madam, exactly I am not able to recollect it. But it is like ҷe can do it this time Ӽ /span>
Madam: Sorry, It is not last year world cup but it is 2003 world cup. The team was given psychological training.
Raju: Yes, Madam
Member 4: You studied your B.Tech. from REC Warangal and M.E. from IISc Bangalore. Do you proud of your institutions like IISc?
Raju: Sir, I am proud that I have studied in a great institution like IISc, which according UNESCO survey conducted in 1997 was in 18th place among world universities. Recently a Chinese university conducted a survey in which IISc was placed at around 250th position.
Member 4: Do you think that 250th position is a good position?
Raju: Sir, even though it is not a good position, the position depended on the parameters they have taken into consideration like no. of nobel laureates present, no. of research papers presented, etc.
Member 4: Who are nobel laureate present in IISc?
Raju: Sir, now there is no nobel laureate in IISc. Earlier Sir C.V.Raman worked in IISc. Now, there are two internationally reputed professors working there.
Member 4: Last year government proposed to stop B.Tech entry into IITs. Do you support that?
Raju: Sir, I support it. Sir, due to hectic schedule, the professors of IITs are not able to concentrate much on research. Once the B.Tech entry is stopped, they will get more time for research and quality of research will increase.
Member 4: Don մ you think the quality of B.Tech students will reduce as IITs are known for better professors?
Raju: Sir, those students who are earlier eligible for entry into IITs, they will join NITs. Since they are the core students I don մ think the quality will reduce. But the professors in other institutes should get sufficient training to reach the level of IIT professors.
Member 4: You agree to that proposal. But the government has withdrawn the proposal due to very good argument against it. Can you tell me?
Raju: Sorry sir, I don մ know.
Member 4: What do you think is responsible for reduction in research?
Raju: Sir, IISc is not able to retain those students who completed M.E. and other courses there. One reason is brain drain, Sir. Second one is that research is not attractive in India, Sir. For example, in our batch out of 230 students who completed M.E. only 2 joined for Ph.D. in IISc. At the end of our M.E. we got campus placements. The minimum salary is around 6 lakhs/ annum. It is attracting most of us. Those who are really interested in research, they are going abroad as they will get more money and research is attractive there. Here, a Ph.D. student gets 12,000 - 15,000 Rs per month. Also material considerations have risen these days, sir. We have to include some compulsory courses in morale & ethics to stop this.
Member 4: Instead of choosing job or research, why did you choose services as career option?
Raju: Sir, The incident that took place in my village in November 2000, when I am in 3rd year of B.Tech, has changed my career options. Nearby Engineering college students came to our village for picnic as our village has excellent beach. 7 of them drowned in the Bay of Bengal and all of them has taken sand into their lungs in addition to water. Since our village is an island, there are no transportation, medical & meagre educational facilities, it took 2 hours to reach nearest town which is 16 Km away from my village. By that time, 6 out 7 were died, Sir.
Chairman: You are telling about an incident in your village. In that case who will respond first?
Raju: (3-4 seconds silence)
Chairman: Whether it is Block development officer, Doctor, or Police.
Raju: Sir, It is the police to respond first.
Chairman: Then, you are in IPS. Why did you come?
Raju: Sir, even for police it took 2 hours to reach that place as there is not enough transportation facilities.
Chairman: Thank you.
Raju: Thank you, Sir. Thank you, Madam. Thank you, Sirs
This has become a very important component. The preparation should be continuous from the sources given in mains strategy. The notes should be focused on the factual aspects that come in the news. Many questions are asked from this area, so prepare
thoroughly. The efforts will be useful for all stages of the exam. It should become a part of your daily routine.
SOME TIPS FROM TOPPERS
SOME TIPS FROM TOPPERS
MUTYALA RAJU REVU :
The 2006 Civil Services Examination results were declared on Monday and Mutyalaraju Revu, an OBC candidate from Andhra Pradesh has topped the exam.Revu, belongs to an extremely humble family and his father is a farmer in the Krishna district in the state.Last year, Revu had cleared the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam, but he had been awarded the Indian Police Service (IPS) because his rank was low.
A product of the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Revu then wrote the exam again and made it to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) this time.
When asked what he remembers most during his preparation, Revu says, “It is the support of my parents, friends and roommates that is responsible for this grand success.”
“We divided a period of five months into different segments and prepared according to the plan we made. Sheer hardwork, perseverance and confidence has contributed to the success,” he added.
This was the third time Revu had appeared for the exam. It has been his dream for sometime to get in the administrative services.
He says an unfortunate incident, which led to the death of his six friends enthused him to qualify for the IAS.“During my third year B Tech, some of my friends came to my village, which lacks proper transport, education and medical facilities, for a picnic. Six of them drowned and died in the sea. And it took us two hours to reach the nearby town for some medical help. This incident made me appear for civil services,” Revu says.Revu, who is presently at the National Police Academy in Hyderabad doesn’t wish to go abroad. He says he would not be able to serve the nation even he’d go abroad.I wanted to be in civil services so that I can render my services to the nation, “ the topper says.
Hard Work, Good Planning, positive Approach and Faith In God Ensure Success - Vinod K.Jacob, IAS Topper 2000 (5th Rank) :
A civil servant is one of the most balanced and normal personalities in a country. He/she need not be an expert, a genius or a super-specialist, he/she has to be an average man/woman of pleasing nature and personality with a flair for leadership and administration. This dictum should guide every IAS aspirant throughout the 3 stages- Prelims, Mains and Interview. A 10 to 14 months programme is a must for this Exam. One should not attempt the first Prelims as a trial. The first attempt ought to be the best attempt. Preparation should be focussed on the Mains 3 months solely devoted to Prelims. Choice of Optional should be the first step the choice should rest solely on aptitude and bent of mind. The study should begin with understanding of the first principles and the basics. One should refer only to the standard text-books and noted classics in the concerned subjects. Preparation for Mains should not be on the basis of past years' Questions papers only. First, complete the syllabus and then one month preceding the Mains, practise with the help previous years' papers. I feel that it is the performance in General Studies paper that tilts the scales.
My observation has been that he candidates are extremely thorough with their Optionals and level of knowledge is improving s the years pass by. Hence General Studies alone makes or mars one's chances. Likewise, one has to practise writing good essays. Writing and presentation skills count for much. English paper and Language paper are no easy sailing affairs. I could not succeed in my first attempt (1998) because I failed in Hindi compulsory paper. So it is always advisable to brush up one's grammar and vocabulary. Making notes, keeping paper cuttings, regular map reading and group discussions are a must. Keeping focussed is often a tall exercise but with the help of our family and few reliable friends we can always recharge our betteries and stay on course.
I decided sometimes in January 97 during my sixth Semester at IIT Kanpur. Then comes the stage as to what is required to be done. Start the practise of regular reading of a newspaper. I was regular with The Hindu and I found it fairly useful. Also the choice of the optional is very crucial. You can decide about it based on your own interests, aptitude, graduation study, consulting the previous years' question papers, etc. it need not necessarily be the popular choice. I had Maths and Chemistry as my optionals. The criteria to choose Chemistry as against Physics was entirely based on my self-analysis because I have more liking for the subject plus by better scoring abilities in it. So despite the fact that there was hardly any guidance available for chemistry as against Physics, I decided about it. Also because I was getting more number of days in between G.S. -Maths and then Math- Chemistry papers (atleast 10 days break in between), this also was favourable and encouraging which did later prove beneficial - for I got sufficient time for last-minute revision.After the self-convincing choice of optional, the collection of the reading material becomes crucial. The study of the previous years' Test Papers together with solution is very useful to understand the trend and type of questions set and how to answer them. Here again Competition Success Review, by publishing answer to the latest such test papers in various Competitive exams including civil Services as a regular Feature, is way ahead of many such contemporary periodicals.
Apart from this, the university level books are consulted for they match the style of the Paper. By September '98, I started on with some optional subject study - taking one topic at a time but main emphasis was on General Studies especially Polity and Modern History. Due to the demanding B.Tech study, I was not able to give a lot of time exclusively for this Exam. But still, I was single-mindedly concentrating on my goal. At times I had to compromise with my B.Tech studies. I used to make a time schedule and a work schedule for the next day and also note down my time analysis and work progress if that particular day and introspect my shortcomings and possible improvements. This went on till April '98 When I gave my Final Semester exams. In between, I managed to devote the Whole one month just to study Indian Polity - the subject I feared the most in GS and its in-depth study instilled self-confidence in me for an otherwise tough subject for me. I started on for Prelims from mid-March. I just studied the Brilliant Notes on Maths and read the NCERT books on History, Geography and Spectrum Guide for Current Affairs. I got the previous years' solved Test of Mathematics to develop a good speed and maintain it as well.
Generally, my tendency during the Practise Test was to complete the paper 10 minutes earlier than the scheduled time (Duration: 2 hours) for in the Exam Hall, in the Hot Summers, one can never be sure of the comfortable conditions. Also signing the Attendance sheets and certain few announcements being made by the invigilators at intervals may be distracting and time-consuming. Prelim is just a qualifying Exam, so my eyes were always directed on the Mains. Still I devoted one full month of May exclusively for it to avoid any risk so that later I can prepare comfortably for the Mains without having any apprehensions about my clearing the first stage. The generally accepted strategy for this Exam is that one must have studied the whole syllabus for the Mains before the Prelims or at least before its result is out, i.e. by July end. But I must admit that it wasn't the case with me.
After my Prelims - taking a 3.4 days' rest break, I prepared a work plan for the next 5 months. I knew that revision is very important, still it was only by August end that I could finish off my syllabus once. With just two months before the Exam,. This was a bit demoralising and at times. I felt that I was out of the race. But keeping my expectations low, still I was determined not to let my spirits go down (Swami Vivekananda quotations and anecdotes never let me down), and sustained my consistency and without letting any negative thoughts overpower my mind, I worked mechanically till the last.
The next two months, I divided into three slots of 20days, each for the three subjects. At first, I revised Maths wholly followed by Chemistry and then GS till the General Studies paper on 30th October. I couldn't do any special study for the Essay paper. However, the high caliber essays for Civil Services published by CSR proved immensely useful in giving me an insight of the methodology to attempt the next 15 days for Math Paper exclusively and then the next 10 days for the Chemistry Paper. So a sufficient gap in between the Exam proved really beneficial to me.
During the crucial six months duration after the Prelims, I feel that you must have a very systematic approach, be disciplines and sincere, be consistent and work zealously. (Each day I would aim at attainable limits of 10-12 hours of study time, maintain a diary, go for some physical work-out for 30-40 minutes in the evening to refreshing myself.) be calm and positive. You should be so dedicated that no external coaxing should be needed to sit and study for long hours have faith in yourself and the Almighty and your concentrated sincere effort will never betray you.
The execution step is the last but the most cautious one. you must take light diet during the Exam days. Have good sleep. The night before the Exam for two papers during a day can be very exhausting and during the second exam, there may be a tendency of lethargy creeping in quite unwittingly. Be calm and positive. Dress comfortably. Reach the Exam centre well in time, so some deep breathing to maintain your cool and be charming during the interview. The work limit prescribes for the GS paper should be largely conformed with, for it helps in good time management as well. Work out the time plan for the Exam beforehand for the Exam pattern is very well known.
For the Essay paper about 45 minutes can be given for planning out, then two hours of writing (on 200 words) and later 15 minutes of overhauling. Interview preparation is not just a matter of a few days - your whole personality counts. Still you must acquaint yourself with your home State, district your college, your hobbies, general concepts of Public Administration, etc. also you can brush up the Mains GS material like Polity, Economy, History, etc.
Interview is more of a psychological test than just content based. But along with good communication skills and self-confidence, good knowledge base gives you an upper hand. Here again, reading certain articles like, "Facing the Interview Board" published by the Competition Success Review helps prepare oneself accordingly. I solely relied on this important feature in Competition Success Review. Group Discussions and MockInterviews are equally important. However, I myself could not make a group and go for any mock interview but I think this may prove helpful especially to those who feel less self-confident and have some difficulty in communication. I did not join any Academy either. On the whole, I feel that the first attempt should not be taken lightly for the enthusiasm and the dedication for the first time may be difficult t sustain on for the next time. Also one must keep his options open while going in for this exam - for with the decreasing number of the seats each year and increasing competition, an alternative job security can give one more self-confidence and thus a wholehearted effort is possible.
With good wishes and good luck to all future aspirants of this coveted service.
Self-Confident, Planning And Systematic Study : Stepping Stones To Success - Amit Negi, IAS Topper 1999 (2nd Rank) :
To achieve glorious success in the Civil Services Examination, proper approach and excellent guidelines are indispensable. Your Optionals are the things which can make all the difference. This single decision has the potential to alter your life. Choose your Optionals carefully and with due care. Try to choose subjects in which you have some background knowledge. Only choose those subjects which are scoring and also with which you are comfortable
. Remember you'll have to do both intensive and extensive study of Optionals. So it is imperative that you must have interest also in your Optionals. Always keep an open-mind. Information from any source relevant to your goal is always welcome. Discuss with your friends, talk to them and listen to their views. This will expand your knowledge base and also expose you to different views. This is important as this will enable you to view things in a balanced perspective and avoid taking extremes. Make it a habit to go through magazines (especially competition Success Review and General Knowledge Today) and newspapers regularly and read as many as possible.
The syllabus in the Civil Services is very hazy and vast with no clearly-defined boundaries. So, it might happen that you end up reading things which are connected with the syllabus but are practically irrelevant from your preparation point of view. So it is necessary that you get a feel of what the examiner expects from you. For this keep a copy of syllabus and side by side keep the previous year' papers. Compare them and see what types of questions are repeated every year. Try to have a feel as to what constitutes important portions of the syllabus and what is irrelevant. Try to from boundaries of the syllabus. This analysis will give you an in-depth insight into the paper and the examiner's mind. This will make you understand which topics need intensive study. This will also enable you to identify unnecessary portions, which are not important from the point of view of examination, so that you may avoid them and save your precious time and energy. It is always useful to maintain a note-book to jot down all important developments happening in the National and the International scene. Also if possible one should make short notes for Optional Paper as well as General Studies. For example, in Mathematics and Physics one can make a formula note-book in which one should write all the important formulae and their derivations. Besides making it easier to remember, such notes are also very useful and handy during revision stages and save a lot of time.
Always do a planned and systematic study. Work out your study schedules in a planned and orderly manner. Maintain a daily routine of studying in a manner suited to you and stick to it; no matter what happens. Plan your whole preparation well. I think this whole preparation should last about 12-15 months. So plan your preparation in such a manner that before the prelims you should have completed your both Optionals and General Studies right up to the Mains level. This will ensure that you have sufficient time to revise. So planning at every stage of the examinations important. Also do a very systematic study.
Work out your syllabus and finish it in an ordered manner. Some time when you are free, try to write an essay on post topics covered in the Civil Services. This will expose you to your lacunae as well as make you understand the things involved: writing a good essay. Not only the easy you should also attempt previous years' Optionals Papers and General Studies Papers. This will expose your weaknesses and give you an idea about the extent of your preparation, your knowledge base, your speed and accuracy. Thus you can develop your writing skills and make sure that you can cover lengthy papers, especially GS Paper-1, in time.
Remember in the Civil Services, writing skills matter a lot. Most of the people appearing for Mains Examinations have a lot of knowledge, some of them have been preparing for the last three or four years, even then such candidates are not selected sometimes. One of the reasons for their failure is their writing skills. They are not able to present all the information present in their mind in a coherent and logical manner as expected by the examiner. So, you should develop your writing skills. The attitude that I will write directly in the Examination should be done away with
. Remembers hours do not count. Don't go by the claims of other persons who say that they study more than 18 hours a day. Do not get depressed if you are unable to achieve their targets. Remember, it is your preparation, you are the one who will appear in the examination, you know yourself better, so do your study according to your needs. Quality of hours put in is more important than quantity. You should use your energy an time in an efficient and effective manner.
Take due care of your health. You might go in for a walk in the evenings. also maintain a hobby which relaxes you during your preparation like listening to music etc. take sleep as required by your body and mind. It is always better to do study when one's mind and body are fresh, this helps in easy grasping of things a swell as in retaining them. Remember that without a good health, you will not be able to concentrate on your studies and your whole idea of the Civil services will go haywire.
It is always better to peak at the time of Examination. So channelise your preparation in such a manner that you don't burn yourself out before the Examination. Build up reserves of energy in yourself. You will need this energy at the time of your Examination. Do not worry much about the compulsory Hindi and English language papers. You will coolly pass them, and you don't need to waste your time preparing for them.
For Interview, from a group of friends who have offered the same Optionals. Remember, Interview is of a personality test. The Board will check certain traits in your personality such as your honesty and integrity, your mental alertness, your acumen, your response to some situations, your views on varied topics and also your knowledge base. So, for Interview read as many newspapers and as many magazine as possible. Discuss with your friends. Take mock-interviews. Try to find loop-holes in your arguments and plug them. Form your views on various subjects in a very logical and rational manner supported by data whenever necessary. Do not get nervous whenever necessary. Do not get nervous before the Interviews. Improve your communications skills by giving mock-interviews.
These will also open you up. Ask your friends to grill you, so that you can face pressure from the Board easily. Always pause a bit before answering even if you know the answer. Do not give a hasty reply. Answer in an orderly and logical fashion an always look into the eyes of the interviewer while answering. Be polite and courteous. Don't be too much argumentative. Be consistent in your views, i.e. just don't change your views because of the fact that the Board is differing with you. Remember that they are only testing you and often even try to provoke you. Give balanced answers and avoid taking extremes.
Alongwith your preparation for the Civil services Examination, the following four elements are the pre-requisites for success in the examination :
(1) Hard Work - Remember that there is no substitute for hard work. No genie is coming to help you. You
have to finish the whole course by yourself.
(2) Dedication - Dedication towards your duty always pays in life. Be totally dedicated towards your study. You will have to sacrifice something like movies, parties, etc. at this stage of your life to achieve bigger things. Just work day and night and go on and on.
(3) Patience - As the civil Services Emanation spans a whole one year right from Preliminary stage to the Interview stage, it requires a lot of patience to maintain your tempo. At times you may feel tired and sick of further studying during the course of your preparation, but don't throw the towel as yet. Maintain your cool and patience and go on. To take out your anger and frustration, talk to friends and parents. They'll provide you with the much-neede emotional support.
(4) Self- confidence- your self-confidence can make the whole difference. If you don't believe in yourself and your capacity to achieve then no matter how hard you try. You will end up in failure. So your self-confidence should be at a very high level. I don't intend to say that you should become over-confident, but a good self-esteem matters. So to pep up your confidence level say t yourself everyday in front of the mirror that you can do it and you will do it. You should be in the surroundings of the people who could constantly motivate you and inspire you. Keep a group of close friends with you who are as determined t make it to the Civil Services as you are. This will make sure that if you are facing some problems in any subject then you can approach some one. Also while talking and discussing with them you'll be exposed to different views. This will also ensure that you can vent out your frustration by talking to some one. Besides, good friends are always a source of inspiration and motivation.
Motivation And Confidence Secrets Of My Success - Deepak Tayal, IAS Topper 1993 (3rd Rank) :
The first and the foremost step to achieve success in the Civil Services Examination is to aim high and have a belief in oneself. Once that is done, one is prepared to give it a go. The first step involves a suitable choice of the Optional subject for the Preliminary Examination and the Mains.
I think that the choice subject be based on interest and comfort level rather than how scoring they are. One should rather than how scoring they are. One should have a natural inclination and aptitude towards these subjects. It always helps if the choice of Optionals for the prelims is one of the subjects chosen for the Mains.After this, it depends on the Particular individual as to what he feels about the method best suited to him and his instincts. But in general preparation can be broadly classified as long-term or short time depending on the available time for preparation.For a long term, one should begin with one of the Optional for the Mains and try to finish as much as possible until about 15 days to 2 months depending on the comfort level for the Optional chosen for Prelims and whether one began with the same subject or not. This should be followed by preparation for the prelims. In the prelims, there is no need to give undue emphasis to the General Studies and to waste time in order to attempt to cover everything. A quick study of different areas of the General Studies is enough if one has prepared thoroughly for the Optional in which attempt should be made to score more than 225 marks.
Preparation for Mains should begin soon after the Prelims is over and one should not waste time waiting for the Interview. Here again the major thrust should be on preparing for optional subject more thoroughly and give them more time. The preparation for General Studies can be highly selective and one can easily see that there is a similar pattern in the questions asked in different years. Of course, there is no feels that there is a lot of available time. On the other hand, if one is following short-term preparation either because of lack of time available for studies or because he feels more comfortable with it, there are some suggestions for books from my side, based on what I did. For History & Indian Polity, selected portions of Unique's Guide and for Current Affairs, Economy & Science and Technology, Spectrum's current affairs are good enough to score more than 325 marks if one has the ability to grasp them quickly. It helps if one has read magazines and newspapers regularly but if he is unable to do so, there is no cause for panic and one can do without them.
A major part of the preparation should go towards the Optional. The most important thing to know about the Interview is that it is not a question-answer session and what they are looking out for is different aspects of one's personality. As far as possible, the answer given should reveal a particular aspect of one's personality and attempts should not be made to present a make-up appearance or politically correct answers. There is no harm in taking extreme views if one is able to justify them.
One need not get carried away by the flood of books and coaching institute. If one feels that he is confident enough to take his own, he can do without them. Most of the questions asked in the Interview are opinion-based. For such questions, it always helps if one already such questions…. it always helps if one already has some views on the issue and he can present them spontaneously. If it is a relatively new issue, the best approach is to think there and also to be seen thinking. If the candidate seems to be applying his mind in an effort towards reaching the solution, it is the best thing that can happen in an Interview.
For the knowledge-based questions, the presentation of the answer becomes more important. One should not make himself appear as having crammed be presented in a conversational manner. There is no need to panic for the Interview and even " I don't know, Sir" should be said with confidence and cheerfulness. One is not expected to know everything under the sun. Finally, whatever the stage might be, one has to have faith and confidence in himself. An individual should be the best judge of what he thinks as the best way to prepare. He should not follow the crowd if it doesn't suit his instinct. Once that happens, he is bound to success and excel
MUTYALA RAJU REVU :
The 2006 Civil Services Examination results were declared on Monday and Mutyalaraju Revu, an OBC candidate from Andhra Pradesh has topped the exam.Revu, belongs to an extremely humble family and his father is a farmer in the Krishna district in the state.Last year, Revu had cleared the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam, but he had been awarded the Indian Police Service (IPS) because his rank was low.
A product of the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Revu then wrote the exam again and made it to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) this time.
When asked what he remembers most during his preparation, Revu says, “It is the support of my parents, friends and roommates that is responsible for this grand success.”
“We divided a period of five months into different segments and prepared according to the plan we made. Sheer hardwork, perseverance and confidence has contributed to the success,” he added.
This was the third time Revu had appeared for the exam. It has been his dream for sometime to get in the administrative services.
He says an unfortunate incident, which led to the death of his six friends enthused him to qualify for the IAS.“During my third year B Tech, some of my friends came to my village, which lacks proper transport, education and medical facilities, for a picnic. Six of them drowned and died in the sea. And it took us two hours to reach the nearby town for some medical help. This incident made me appear for civil services,” Revu says.Revu, who is presently at the National Police Academy in Hyderabad doesn’t wish to go abroad. He says he would not be able to serve the nation even he’d go abroad.I wanted to be in civil services so that I can render my services to the nation, “ the topper says.
Hard Work, Good Planning, positive Approach and Faith In God Ensure Success - Vinod K.Jacob, IAS Topper 2000 (5th Rank) :
A civil servant is one of the most balanced and normal personalities in a country. He/she need not be an expert, a genius or a super-specialist, he/she has to be an average man/woman of pleasing nature and personality with a flair for leadership and administration. This dictum should guide every IAS aspirant throughout the 3 stages- Prelims, Mains and Interview. A 10 to 14 months programme is a must for this Exam. One should not attempt the first Prelims as a trial. The first attempt ought to be the best attempt. Preparation should be focussed on the Mains 3 months solely devoted to Prelims. Choice of Optional should be the first step the choice should rest solely on aptitude and bent of mind. The study should begin with understanding of the first principles and the basics. One should refer only to the standard text-books and noted classics in the concerned subjects. Preparation for Mains should not be on the basis of past years' Questions papers only. First, complete the syllabus and then one month preceding the Mains, practise with the help previous years' papers. I feel that it is the performance in General Studies paper that tilts the scales.
My observation has been that he candidates are extremely thorough with their Optionals and level of knowledge is improving s the years pass by. Hence General Studies alone makes or mars one's chances. Likewise, one has to practise writing good essays. Writing and presentation skills count for much. English paper and Language paper are no easy sailing affairs. I could not succeed in my first attempt (1998) because I failed in Hindi compulsory paper. So it is always advisable to brush up one's grammar and vocabulary. Making notes, keeping paper cuttings, regular map reading and group discussions are a must. Keeping focussed is often a tall exercise but with the help of our family and few reliable friends we can always recharge our betteries and stay on course.
I decided sometimes in January 97 during my sixth Semester at IIT Kanpur. Then comes the stage as to what is required to be done. Start the practise of regular reading of a newspaper. I was regular with The Hindu and I found it fairly useful. Also the choice of the optional is very crucial. You can decide about it based on your own interests, aptitude, graduation study, consulting the previous years' question papers, etc. it need not necessarily be the popular choice. I had Maths and Chemistry as my optionals. The criteria to choose Chemistry as against Physics was entirely based on my self-analysis because I have more liking for the subject plus by better scoring abilities in it. So despite the fact that there was hardly any guidance available for chemistry as against Physics, I decided about it. Also because I was getting more number of days in between G.S. -Maths and then Math- Chemistry papers (atleast 10 days break in between), this also was favourable and encouraging which did later prove beneficial - for I got sufficient time for last-minute revision.After the self-convincing choice of optional, the collection of the reading material becomes crucial. The study of the previous years' Test Papers together with solution is very useful to understand the trend and type of questions set and how to answer them. Here again Competition Success Review, by publishing answer to the latest such test papers in various Competitive exams including civil Services as a regular Feature, is way ahead of many such contemporary periodicals.
Apart from this, the university level books are consulted for they match the style of the Paper. By September '98, I started on with some optional subject study - taking one topic at a time but main emphasis was on General Studies especially Polity and Modern History. Due to the demanding B.Tech study, I was not able to give a lot of time exclusively for this Exam. But still, I was single-mindedly concentrating on my goal. At times I had to compromise with my B.Tech studies. I used to make a time schedule and a work schedule for the next day and also note down my time analysis and work progress if that particular day and introspect my shortcomings and possible improvements. This went on till April '98 When I gave my Final Semester exams. In between, I managed to devote the Whole one month just to study Indian Polity - the subject I feared the most in GS and its in-depth study instilled self-confidence in me for an otherwise tough subject for me. I started on for Prelims from mid-March. I just studied the Brilliant Notes on Maths and read the NCERT books on History, Geography and Spectrum Guide for Current Affairs. I got the previous years' solved Test of Mathematics to develop a good speed and maintain it as well.
Generally, my tendency during the Practise Test was to complete the paper 10 minutes earlier than the scheduled time (Duration: 2 hours) for in the Exam Hall, in the Hot Summers, one can never be sure of the comfortable conditions. Also signing the Attendance sheets and certain few announcements being made by the invigilators at intervals may be distracting and time-consuming. Prelim is just a qualifying Exam, so my eyes were always directed on the Mains. Still I devoted one full month of May exclusively for it to avoid any risk so that later I can prepare comfortably for the Mains without having any apprehensions about my clearing the first stage. The generally accepted strategy for this Exam is that one must have studied the whole syllabus for the Mains before the Prelims or at least before its result is out, i.e. by July end. But I must admit that it wasn't the case with me.
After my Prelims - taking a 3.4 days' rest break, I prepared a work plan for the next 5 months. I knew that revision is very important, still it was only by August end that I could finish off my syllabus once. With just two months before the Exam,. This was a bit demoralising and at times. I felt that I was out of the race. But keeping my expectations low, still I was determined not to let my spirits go down (Swami Vivekananda quotations and anecdotes never let me down), and sustained my consistency and without letting any negative thoughts overpower my mind, I worked mechanically till the last.
The next two months, I divided into three slots of 20days, each for the three subjects. At first, I revised Maths wholly followed by Chemistry and then GS till the General Studies paper on 30th October. I couldn't do any special study for the Essay paper. However, the high caliber essays for Civil Services published by CSR proved immensely useful in giving me an insight of the methodology to attempt the next 15 days for Math Paper exclusively and then the next 10 days for the Chemistry Paper. So a sufficient gap in between the Exam proved really beneficial to me.
During the crucial six months duration after the Prelims, I feel that you must have a very systematic approach, be disciplines and sincere, be consistent and work zealously. (Each day I would aim at attainable limits of 10-12 hours of study time, maintain a diary, go for some physical work-out for 30-40 minutes in the evening to refreshing myself.) be calm and positive. You should be so dedicated that no external coaxing should be needed to sit and study for long hours have faith in yourself and the Almighty and your concentrated sincere effort will never betray you.
The execution step is the last but the most cautious one. you must take light diet during the Exam days. Have good sleep. The night before the Exam for two papers during a day can be very exhausting and during the second exam, there may be a tendency of lethargy creeping in quite unwittingly. Be calm and positive. Dress comfortably. Reach the Exam centre well in time, so some deep breathing to maintain your cool and be charming during the interview. The work limit prescribes for the GS paper should be largely conformed with, for it helps in good time management as well. Work out the time plan for the Exam beforehand for the Exam pattern is very well known.
For the Essay paper about 45 minutes can be given for planning out, then two hours of writing (on 200 words) and later 15 minutes of overhauling. Interview preparation is not just a matter of a few days - your whole personality counts. Still you must acquaint yourself with your home State, district your college, your hobbies, general concepts of Public Administration, etc. also you can brush up the Mains GS material like Polity, Economy, History, etc.
Interview is more of a psychological test than just content based. But along with good communication skills and self-confidence, good knowledge base gives you an upper hand. Here again, reading certain articles like, "Facing the Interview Board" published by the Competition Success Review helps prepare oneself accordingly. I solely relied on this important feature in Competition Success Review. Group Discussions and MockInterviews are equally important. However, I myself could not make a group and go for any mock interview but I think this may prove helpful especially to those who feel less self-confident and have some difficulty in communication. I did not join any Academy either. On the whole, I feel that the first attempt should not be taken lightly for the enthusiasm and the dedication for the first time may be difficult t sustain on for the next time. Also one must keep his options open while going in for this exam - for with the decreasing number of the seats each year and increasing competition, an alternative job security can give one more self-confidence and thus a wholehearted effort is possible.
With good wishes and good luck to all future aspirants of this coveted service.
Self-Confident, Planning And Systematic Study : Stepping Stones To Success - Amit Negi, IAS Topper 1999 (2nd Rank) :
To achieve glorious success in the Civil Services Examination, proper approach and excellent guidelines are indispensable. Your Optionals are the things which can make all the difference. This single decision has the potential to alter your life. Choose your Optionals carefully and with due care. Try to choose subjects in which you have some background knowledge. Only choose those subjects which are scoring and also with which you are comfortable
. Remember you'll have to do both intensive and extensive study of Optionals. So it is imperative that you must have interest also in your Optionals. Always keep an open-mind. Information from any source relevant to your goal is always welcome. Discuss with your friends, talk to them and listen to their views. This will expand your knowledge base and also expose you to different views. This is important as this will enable you to view things in a balanced perspective and avoid taking extremes. Make it a habit to go through magazines (especially competition Success Review and General Knowledge Today) and newspapers regularly and read as many as possible.
The syllabus in the Civil Services is very hazy and vast with no clearly-defined boundaries. So, it might happen that you end up reading things which are connected with the syllabus but are practically irrelevant from your preparation point of view. So it is necessary that you get a feel of what the examiner expects from you. For this keep a copy of syllabus and side by side keep the previous year' papers. Compare them and see what types of questions are repeated every year. Try to have a feel as to what constitutes important portions of the syllabus and what is irrelevant. Try to from boundaries of the syllabus. This analysis will give you an in-depth insight into the paper and the examiner's mind. This will make you understand which topics need intensive study. This will also enable you to identify unnecessary portions, which are not important from the point of view of examination, so that you may avoid them and save your precious time and energy. It is always useful to maintain a note-book to jot down all important developments happening in the National and the International scene. Also if possible one should make short notes for Optional Paper as well as General Studies. For example, in Mathematics and Physics one can make a formula note-book in which one should write all the important formulae and their derivations. Besides making it easier to remember, such notes are also very useful and handy during revision stages and save a lot of time.
Always do a planned and systematic study. Work out your study schedules in a planned and orderly manner. Maintain a daily routine of studying in a manner suited to you and stick to it; no matter what happens. Plan your whole preparation well. I think this whole preparation should last about 12-15 months. So plan your preparation in such a manner that before the prelims you should have completed your both Optionals and General Studies right up to the Mains level. This will ensure that you have sufficient time to revise. So planning at every stage of the examinations important. Also do a very systematic study.
Work out your syllabus and finish it in an ordered manner. Some time when you are free, try to write an essay on post topics covered in the Civil Services. This will expose you to your lacunae as well as make you understand the things involved: writing a good essay. Not only the easy you should also attempt previous years' Optionals Papers and General Studies Papers. This will expose your weaknesses and give you an idea about the extent of your preparation, your knowledge base, your speed and accuracy. Thus you can develop your writing skills and make sure that you can cover lengthy papers, especially GS Paper-1, in time.
Remember in the Civil Services, writing skills matter a lot. Most of the people appearing for Mains Examinations have a lot of knowledge, some of them have been preparing for the last three or four years, even then such candidates are not selected sometimes. One of the reasons for their failure is their writing skills. They are not able to present all the information present in their mind in a coherent and logical manner as expected by the examiner. So, you should develop your writing skills. The attitude that I will write directly in the Examination should be done away with
. Remembers hours do not count. Don't go by the claims of other persons who say that they study more than 18 hours a day. Do not get depressed if you are unable to achieve their targets. Remember, it is your preparation, you are the one who will appear in the examination, you know yourself better, so do your study according to your needs. Quality of hours put in is more important than quantity. You should use your energy an time in an efficient and effective manner.
Take due care of your health. You might go in for a walk in the evenings. also maintain a hobby which relaxes you during your preparation like listening to music etc. take sleep as required by your body and mind. It is always better to do study when one's mind and body are fresh, this helps in easy grasping of things a swell as in retaining them. Remember that without a good health, you will not be able to concentrate on your studies and your whole idea of the Civil services will go haywire.
It is always better to peak at the time of Examination. So channelise your preparation in such a manner that you don't burn yourself out before the Examination. Build up reserves of energy in yourself. You will need this energy at the time of your Examination. Do not worry much about the compulsory Hindi and English language papers. You will coolly pass them, and you don't need to waste your time preparing for them.
For Interview, from a group of friends who have offered the same Optionals. Remember, Interview is of a personality test. The Board will check certain traits in your personality such as your honesty and integrity, your mental alertness, your acumen, your response to some situations, your views on varied topics and also your knowledge base. So, for Interview read as many newspapers and as many magazine as possible. Discuss with your friends. Take mock-interviews. Try to find loop-holes in your arguments and plug them. Form your views on various subjects in a very logical and rational manner supported by data whenever necessary. Do not get nervous whenever necessary. Do not get nervous before the Interviews. Improve your communications skills by giving mock-interviews.
These will also open you up. Ask your friends to grill you, so that you can face pressure from the Board easily. Always pause a bit before answering even if you know the answer. Do not give a hasty reply. Answer in an orderly and logical fashion an always look into the eyes of the interviewer while answering. Be polite and courteous. Don't be too much argumentative. Be consistent in your views, i.e. just don't change your views because of the fact that the Board is differing with you. Remember that they are only testing you and often even try to provoke you. Give balanced answers and avoid taking extremes.
Alongwith your preparation for the Civil services Examination, the following four elements are the pre-requisites for success in the examination :
(1) Hard Work - Remember that there is no substitute for hard work. No genie is coming to help you. You
have to finish the whole course by yourself.
(2) Dedication - Dedication towards your duty always pays in life. Be totally dedicated towards your study. You will have to sacrifice something like movies, parties, etc. at this stage of your life to achieve bigger things. Just work day and night and go on and on.
(3) Patience - As the civil Services Emanation spans a whole one year right from Preliminary stage to the Interview stage, it requires a lot of patience to maintain your tempo. At times you may feel tired and sick of further studying during the course of your preparation, but don't throw the towel as yet. Maintain your cool and patience and go on. To take out your anger and frustration, talk to friends and parents. They'll provide you with the much-neede emotional support.
(4) Self- confidence- your self-confidence can make the whole difference. If you don't believe in yourself and your capacity to achieve then no matter how hard you try. You will end up in failure. So your self-confidence should be at a very high level. I don't intend to say that you should become over-confident, but a good self-esteem matters. So to pep up your confidence level say t yourself everyday in front of the mirror that you can do it and you will do it. You should be in the surroundings of the people who could constantly motivate you and inspire you. Keep a group of close friends with you who are as determined t make it to the Civil Services as you are. This will make sure that if you are facing some problems in any subject then you can approach some one. Also while talking and discussing with them you'll be exposed to different views. This will also ensure that you can vent out your frustration by talking to some one. Besides, good friends are always a source of inspiration and motivation.
Motivation And Confidence Secrets Of My Success - Deepak Tayal, IAS Topper 1993 (3rd Rank) :
The first and the foremost step to achieve success in the Civil Services Examination is to aim high and have a belief in oneself. Once that is done, one is prepared to give it a go. The first step involves a suitable choice of the Optional subject for the Preliminary Examination and the Mains.
I think that the choice subject be based on interest and comfort level rather than how scoring they are. One should rather than how scoring they are. One should have a natural inclination and aptitude towards these subjects. It always helps if the choice of Optionals for the prelims is one of the subjects chosen for the Mains.After this, it depends on the Particular individual as to what he feels about the method best suited to him and his instincts. But in general preparation can be broadly classified as long-term or short time depending on the available time for preparation.For a long term, one should begin with one of the Optional for the Mains and try to finish as much as possible until about 15 days to 2 months depending on the comfort level for the Optional chosen for Prelims and whether one began with the same subject or not. This should be followed by preparation for the prelims. In the prelims, there is no need to give undue emphasis to the General Studies and to waste time in order to attempt to cover everything. A quick study of different areas of the General Studies is enough if one has prepared thoroughly for the Optional in which attempt should be made to score more than 225 marks.
Preparation for Mains should begin soon after the Prelims is over and one should not waste time waiting for the Interview. Here again the major thrust should be on preparing for optional subject more thoroughly and give them more time. The preparation for General Studies can be highly selective and one can easily see that there is a similar pattern in the questions asked in different years. Of course, there is no feels that there is a lot of available time. On the other hand, if one is following short-term preparation either because of lack of time available for studies or because he feels more comfortable with it, there are some suggestions for books from my side, based on what I did. For History & Indian Polity, selected portions of Unique's Guide and for Current Affairs, Economy & Science and Technology, Spectrum's current affairs are good enough to score more than 325 marks if one has the ability to grasp them quickly. It helps if one has read magazines and newspapers regularly but if he is unable to do so, there is no cause for panic and one can do without them.
A major part of the preparation should go towards the Optional. The most important thing to know about the Interview is that it is not a question-answer session and what they are looking out for is different aspects of one's personality. As far as possible, the answer given should reveal a particular aspect of one's personality and attempts should not be made to present a make-up appearance or politically correct answers. There is no harm in taking extreme views if one is able to justify them.
One need not get carried away by the flood of books and coaching institute. If one feels that he is confident enough to take his own, he can do without them. Most of the questions asked in the Interview are opinion-based. For such questions, it always helps if one already such questions…. it always helps if one already has some views on the issue and he can present them spontaneously. If it is a relatively new issue, the best approach is to think there and also to be seen thinking. If the candidate seems to be applying his mind in an effort towards reaching the solution, it is the best thing that can happen in an Interview.
For the knowledge-based questions, the presentation of the answer becomes more important. One should not make himself appear as having crammed be presented in a conversational manner. There is no need to panic for the Interview and even " I don't know, Sir" should be said with confidence and cheerfulness. One is not expected to know everything under the sun. Finally, whatever the stage might be, one has to have faith and confidence in himself. An individual should be the best judge of what he thinks as the best way to prepare. He should not follow the crowd if it doesn't suit his instinct. Once that happens, he is bound to success and excel
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