The UPSC Mains results for 2024 are out, with 2,845 candidates clearing the hurdle to move on to the Personality Test stage. This number aligns with the trends we’ve seen in previous years and serves as a stark reminder of the fierce competition and sheer determination required to stay in the game. For those who made it, this is a significant milestone.
For those who didn’t, the journey itself holds valuable lessons that cannot be overstated.
THE NATURE OF THE EXAM: CONVENTIONAL YET TESTING
This year’s UPSC Main examination stuck to a more conventional approach, with a mix of expected themes across General Studies, Essays, and optional papers. The Essay paper, however, stood out.
It demands not just a surface-level understanding, but an ability to engage deeply with abstract and philosophical themes while tying them to real-world examples.
Those who succeeded likely demonstrated clarity, creativity, and an ability to connect the dots—traits the UPSC seeks in future administrators, according to Ravi Kapoor, UPSC Educator, Author and Former IRS Officer.
The Ethics paper, on the other hand, was a different beast altogether—demanding not just theoretical knowledge but sharp time management and the ability to think practically.
The length of the paper challenged even seasoned candidates. The case studies tested their ability to navigate real-life dilemmas with balance and ethical clarity.
What stood out across the board this year was the advantage enjoyed by candidates who had rigorously practised answer-writing. The ability to think critically, structure responses well, and present coherent arguments under strict time constraints set the successful ones apart. If you practised repeatedly, refined your writing, and familiarised yourself with counterarguments, the payoff was clear.
The UPSC’s approach this year likely bore the shadow of recent controversies, particularly the uproar over the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) last year. Aspirants argued that the difficulty level of CSAT disproportionately impacted their chances, with some comparing it to exams like CAT and IIT-JEE.
Legal battles followed, and this year’s relatively balanced Mains papers may have been a response to ensure fairness and protect the institution’s credibility.
LUCK, SUBJECTIVITY, AND THE HUMAN ELEMENT
No conversation about UPSC can ignore the role of luck and subjectivity. While the process strives to be objective, the human element—both in the evaluation of answers and in the Personality Test—remains unavoidable.
A well-prepared candidate may stumble upon a tricky question or be evaluated by a panel with a unique perspective. This isn’t to say preparation doesn’t matter—it does immensely. But luck, timing, and sheer presence of mind often tip the scale in a tight competition.
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This article is referenced from
https://www.indiatoday.in/
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