In a landmark move, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Chairman, Dr. Ajay Kumar, held a live Q&A session with aspirants on October 1. The interaction, coinciding with the beginning of UPSC’s centenary year, addressed several long-standing concerns about the Civil Services Examination—ranging from eligibility and CSAT to reforms, evaluation, and anti-cheating measures.
Below are the major highlights from this first-ever direct interaction between the UPSC chairperson and candidates:
Why doesn’t UPSC share answer keys and OMR sheets immediately after prelims?
Dr. Kumar explained that after the prelims, candidates are invited to submit objections through an online portal. These inputs are then reviewed by independent academic experts. If corrections are needed, they are made before final answer keys are released, which happens before the next examination cycle.
As for OMR sheets, candidates can access their individual sheets later, and question papers are already available publicly. However, the issue of releasing them immediately is currently under consideration in the Supreme Court. UPSC will comply with the court’s final verdict.
Why is August 1 the cut-off date for eligibility?
The cut-off system has been in place since the 1960s–70s. Exams in the first half of the year follow January 1, while those in the second half follow August 1. Shifting all exams to January 1 would disadvantage students who graduate in May–June, as they would lose almost a year. August 1 prevents this gap and ensures uniformity.
Does CSAT favour engineering or maths graduates?
According to Dr. Kumar, the CSAT (Paper II) is a qualifying paper with just 33% marks required. It covers three areas—comprehension, quantitative aptitude, and logical reasoning—ensuring a balance for all candidates. Its role is only to check basic analytical and problem-solving skills essential for governance, not to benefit any one background.
Will optional subjects in mains be removed?
Optional subjects remain crucial. They account for 2/7th of the written exam and test in-depth knowledge in a subject chosen by the candidate. This flexibility reflects an aspirant’s ability to master new subjects, which is vital for a civil servant’s career. As of now, there are no plans to remove optionals.
Why do prelims results take so long?
UPSC already provides candidates an opportunity to raise objections through its QREP portal. Final answer keys and cut-offs are released before the next exam cycle, helping aspirants prepare for future attempts. The demand for earlier cut-off publication is also part of an ongoing Supreme Court case.
Is UPSC reducing the age limit or number of attempts?
There are no such proposals. Currently, the age limit is 32 years for General candidates, with 9 attempts. OBC candidates get 35 years and 9 attempts, while SC/ST enjoy 37 years with unlimited attempts. Persons with Disabilities (PwD) receive an additional 10-year relaxation. These provisions were last revised in 2014 and remain unchanged.
Is there bias against rural aspirants?
Dr. Kumar clarified that UPSC ensures complete anonymity in evaluation. In fact, 80–90% of successful candidates today come from small towns and rural areas. Coaching is not compulsory, and many clear the exam through self-study.
What reforms are planned?
UPSC is adopting digital tools for transparency and efficiency. Aadhaar-based authentication and face recognition have been introduced to prevent impersonation. A new portal has also been launched to simplify processes, with more reforms expected in the future.
What is the Pratibha Setu initiative?
Pratibha Setu connects aspirants who narrowly miss the merit list with private and public organisations seeking talented candidates. With consent, their details are shared with recruiters, and many have already secured good opportunities through the platform.
How does UPSC tackle cheating and fake certificates?
The Commission follows a strict zero-tolerance policy. Candidates caught using fake documents or engaging in malpractice face a minimum three-year ban. In severe cases, FIRs and legal actions are pursued. Advanced technology is also being used to detect fraud.
Has the grievance redressal system improved?
Yes. Earlier, the helpdesk was seasonal, but now it remains active year-round. UPSC has also launched an official LinkedIn portal to make communication more accessible for aspirants.
Dr. Ajay Kumar’s personal UPSC journey
He recalled preparing for the exam during his BTech at IIT Kanpur. Although pursuing studies abroad was a trend, he chose to serve India. He cleared both IAS and Engineering Services exams. His success came from consistency, curiosity, discipline, and a positive outlook—values he recommends to all aspirants.
How does UPSC ensure fairness in mains and interviews?
Evaluation is done by anonymous subject experts. A moderation system ensures uniformity across subjects, balancing scores and preventing bias. This method has judicial approval and maintains meritocracy.
Why are some prelims questions dropped?
Despite a multi-layered paper-setting process, rare cases arise where questions allow multiple interpretations. To maintain fairness, such questions are dropped, and scores are adjusted accordingly.
If you were an aspirant today, how would you prepare?
Dr. Kumar stressed that self-study is the best approach. Coaching is optional, but discipline, perseverance, and consistency are non-negotiable. Preparation is like long-distance running—difficult but rewarding for those who persist.
Does background affect interview results?
No. UPSC does not differentiate between urban and rural, engineering and humanities, or any other background. The evaluation is strictly merit-based. Data even shows many engineers clear the exam with humanities optionals.
Will such open Q&A sessions continue?
Yes. Dr. Kumar confirmed that such town hall interactions will be organised regularly to strengthen trust and transparency.
Advice for aspirants who miss selection narrowly
Dr. Kumar encouraged aspirants not to feel disheartened. With platforms like Pratibha Setu and the transferable skills developed during UPSC preparation, opportunities are abundant in multiple fields.
Final message for aspirants
“UPSC is not just an exam—it is a platform to realise your potential and contribute to the nation. Success depends on hard work, discipline, and self-belief. Even if civil services is not the final outcome, the journey itself shapes you into a winner.” – Dr. Ajay Kumar