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Why is Dhiman Chakma Who Cracked UPSC Twice Under Arrest?

June 9, 2025, 5:30 pm

Dhiman Chakma, who was once renowned as an inspirational figure among UPSC aspirants in the Northeast, now has his reputation tainted by controversy. The 2021-batch IAS officer was arrested on June 8 by officials of Odisha Vigilance after allegedly being caught red-handed while accepting a Rs. 10 lakh bribe at his official residence in Kalahandi district.

Chakma’s meteoric rise from a small town in Tripura to the Indian Administrative Service had been celebrated as a victory of determination.

He cleared the UPSC Civil Services Exam twice, first in 2019, getting a spot in the Indian Forest Service (IFS), and then in 2020, securing a higher rank that resulted in his IAS deputation in Odisha. However, only three and a half years, the same officer now finds himself at the centre of serious corruption charges.

The Trap and Seizure

An arrest was made after the complaint of a local businessman operating a stone crusher unit, who alleged that Chakma had sought Rs. 20 lakh to spare his firm official action.

After the businessman paid the first installment of Rs. 10 lakh, the Odisha Vigilance officials laid a trap and arrested Chakma.

According to reports, a chemical test identified bribe traces on his hands and in his office drawer.

Later searches at his home revealed Rs. 47 lakh in cash, and police have widened the probe. Chakma has been booked under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act (1988, amended in 2018). Officials are trying to identify the origin of the seized cash and investigating if other officials have any role in it.

From Tripura’s Hills to IAS

Chakma was born in Kanchanpur, Tripura, to a humble family. His father was a school teacher and his mother, a housewife. With limited exposure and resources, he graduated with a B.Tech in Computer Science from NIT Agartala.

He first cleared the UPSC exam in 2019 with rank 722, qualifying for the Indian Forest Service and being posted in Mayurbhanj, Odisha.

Chakma was not ready to give up on his ambition of joining the IAS, though. He returned in 2020 for the exam and scored the 482nd rank, earning a spot in Odisha cadre.

After a year of training, he was appointed as Deputy Collector in Dharamgarh subdivision, where he worked on rural development and governance.

Public Reactions

His arrest became the buzz on social media within minutes, and reactions were widespread shock and dismay. “So much corruption in four years?” one post stated, while another person wanted to know, “What ethics are they teaching prospective administrators?”

The incident has once again raised questions about the moral training of bureaucrats. Most are now wondering if tests such as the UPSC can ever test a candidate’s integrity.

Chakma had himself ranted about the need for ‘transparency and good governance’ in his public speeches and training sessions; virtues now the very essence of the charges against him.

The investigation result may have far-reaching implications for Chakma’s career. Based on the court verdict, he can be suspended or dismissed. Odisha Vigilance continues to scrutinize his previous acts and dealings during money with his stint in Kalahandi in the meantime.

What used to be an icon of bitter victories, Dhiman Chakma’s downfall is something to learn from by civil servants and wannabes alike.

UPSC Launches New One-Time Registration Portal for Applicants: Key Details Inside

May 29, 2025, 3:05 pm

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has launched a revamped online application portal to simplify the registration process and eliminate last-minute hassles for aspirants. The new system replaces the old One Time Registration (OTR) module and is now live on the official website upsconline.nic.in.

4-Part Application Structure

As per the official notice, “The UPSC Online Application Portal has four parts, arranged in 4 separate cards at the home page, three of which namely, Account Creation, Universal Registration and Common Application Form contains information which are common to all examinations and can be filled anytime by the candidates. The fourth part i.e. Examination contains examination notices, Examination Application and applications status. Only examination specific information is to be filled up in this part by candidates during the time period allowed in the notification of an examination.”

This new modular approach ensures that candidates can complete the bulk of their application process well in advance and focus only on exam-specific details when applications open.

Designed to Reduce Rush and Save Time

Highlighting the benefits, the commission added that this structure allows candidates to “fill up first three parts anytime and keep ready for applying to any UPSC examination whenever notified with updates as may be required, thereby saving time and avoiding last minute rush.”

Aadhaar for Seamless Verification

The commission strongly advises candidates to use their Aadhaar Card during registration. This will enable “easy, effortless and seamless verification and authentication of ID and other details,” while serving as a permanent ID record across all UPSC exams.

Old OTR No Longer Valid

In a significant update, UPSC clarified that the previous OTR system is obsolete. All candidates are required to re-register and upload documents on the new platform to apply for upcoming exams.

First Exams Under New System

The commission announced that applications for the CDS II and NDA & NA II exams 2025 will be accepted only through the new portal.

Candidates are advised to visit the official UPSC website for further details and updates.

Who is Dr. Ajay Kumar? Inside the Mind of UPSC’s New Power Player

May 16, 2025, 10:27 am

Behind the closed doors of government, where influence frequently takes precedence over speech, a turning point has been reached. On May 13, 2025, the Department of Personnel and Training made public its notification of the appointment of Dr. Ajay Kumar as the next Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

With this action, India inaugurates a new era for its most elite civil service institution, an era in which reform, innovation, and merit intersect.

A Leader Beyond the Role: Merit Meets Vision

Dr. Ajay Kumar succeeds Preeti Sudan with the gravitas that such institutional shifts necessitate. A leader known for his visionary leadership, Kumar is not the type of person who fills posts—he redefines them. “As Defence Secretary, he didn’t just manage files—he moved tectonic plates,” captures the ethos he infuses into the UPSC.

A postgraduate from IIT Kanpur with a PhD from the University of Minnesota, Kumar combines technical exactness with strategic administration. His legacy is that he anchored defence modernisation, led digital initiatives, and built institutions from the ground up.

Kerala Cadre to KELTRON: Engineering Public Change

He was born on 2 October 1962. Dr. Ajay Kumar joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1985 in Kerala cadre. He soon gained prominence for combining technological innovation with administrative efficacy. When Principal Secretary for Information Technology in Kerala, he triggered the digital march of the state. Subsequently, in KELTRON, he transformed public systems by applying engineering efficiency and economic wisdom.

His own academic qualifications—a BTech from IIT Kanpur and a PhD in Business Administration—also supported his multi-disciplinary orientation, allowing him to see policy both through analytical and humane prisms.

Redefining Defence: The Reform Architect

But it was his tenure as Defence Secretary between 2019 and 2022 that solidified his legacy. Kumar was elevated to become the longest-serving Defence Secretary, who led with vision and courage. He spearheaded the establishment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), accelerated the Agniveer scheme, and was a key force behind the Atmanirbhar Bharat movement in defence.

He did not rest. Kumar facilitated the corporatization of 200-year-old Ordnance Factories Board and created the iDEX programme, which created a vibrant startup ecosystem within the defence space. His influence extended to enhancing the performance of Defence Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). He showed that innovation and efficiency could go hand in hand with public service.

Before his stint at the Defence Ministry, Kumar made a lasting impact as Meity Secretary. His work on Aadhaar, UPI, MyGov, and Gem overhauled India’s digital governance landscape. These platforms augmented convenience, enhanced transparency, and facilitated streamlined citizen-government interaction.

Act II: Strategist, Investor, Academic

Even after retirement, Kumar did not let himself take a back seat. He founded MGF-Kavachh, a ₹250 crore fund investing in deep technology startups in aerospace and defence. His advisory positions at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and Sify kept him abreast of leading-edge policy and industry trends.

In parallel, he shared his knowledge as a visiting professor at IIT Kanpur and a non-resident Senior Fellow at Carnegie India. His writings in leading dailies reveal a mind still deeply engaged with India’s evolving governance challenges.

A Vision for the UPSC and India’s Future

Dr. Ajay Kumar’s joining UPSC is a time when India is in need of more than administrators—India requires visionaries. His varied experience in defence, technology, and governance positions him best to reform the way the country appoints and develops its civil servants.

This is not just an administrative transition. It signals that a leader with his eyes on both the machinery of the state and the dreams of its people will shape the future of India’s bureaucracy.

UPSC Success Story: Shepherd Birdev Dhone Achieves 551 Rank

April 25, 2025, 7:26 pm

Birdev Siddhappa Dhone, a shepherd from Karnataka, hit the headlines on April 22 after clearing the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations for the third time. Though he encountered great hurdles, the 27-year-old got a rank of 551, making him one of the select few to do so.

Dhone’s journey started in Belgaum, where he was taking care of his uncle’s goats when the life-altering news reached him. His celebration was rooted in cultural practices: “The initial celebration was simple and true to our cultural ethos—my uncle put a yellow pheta (turban) on my head and applied the holy bhandara (turmeric powder) on my forehead. Someone clicked my photo, which somehow went viral,” Dhone told the Indian Express.

A College of Engineering Pune graduate, Dhone finished his degree in civil engineering in the year 2020. His education started with his 10th standard in his home village’s Zilla Parishad school and then senior secondary at Jai Maharashtra School.

Born in Yamage village, Kagal taluka, Kolhapur, Dhone belongs to a traditional sheep herding community, the Dhangars. His parents stood by him at all times, and he has an elder brother who is working as a Naik in the Indian Army. Sheep and goat rearing are the main income sources for the family, and they possess an acre of land.

In 2020-21, Dhone was employed as a postman at Indian Post, yet his dream of joining the civil services remained unbroken. He took a daring step by resigning from his job and solely focusing on UPSC preparation, even shifting to Delhi with the help of a friend’s monetary assistance. “It was always at the back of my mind that I needed to break the civil services, it was going to be tough, but I knew I needed to do it,” he added. “It was tough financially, but one of my friends assisted me, and my keen desire to be in bureaucracy pulled me through the preparation.”

Though Dhone would love to become a member of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), he is willing to take a career path in the Indian Police Service (IPS) as well, declaring, “As an officer, I would like to listen to people – and ensure they are heard.” Commenting on his success, he said, “My triumph appears like a dream.”

Who Are UPSC 2024 Toppers? Know About Shakti Dubey, Harshita Goyal, and Dongre Archit Parag

April 22, 2025, 6:53 pm

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on Tuesday announced the final results of the Civil Services Examination 2024, with Shakti Dubey topping the list. Held in three grueling phases — preliminary, mains, and interview — the exam chooses officers for India’s top services such as the IAS, IFS, and IPS.

This year, 14,627 candidates were qualified for the written (main) exam conducted in September 2024, and 2,845 candidates were shortlisted for the final personality test. The commission has also suggested 1,009 candidates — 725 men and 284 women — for appointments to different civil services.

Profiles of the Top 5 UPSC 2024 Toppers

Shakti Dubey

Standing first, Shakti Dubey has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from the University of Allahabad. Political Science and International Relations were her optional subject.

Harshita Goyal

Standing second rank, Harshita Goyal is a graduate in Commerce from MS University of Baroda. Similar to Shakti, she took Political Science and International Relations as her optional subject.

Dongre Archit Parag

Third-ranked Archit Parag holds a B.Tech degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from VIT, Vellore. Philosophy was his optional subject.

Shah Margi Chirag

Fourth-place Shah Margi Chirag is a Computer Engineering graduate from Gujarat Technological University, Ahmedabad. She opted for Sociology as her optional subject.

Aakash Garg

Aakash Garg, who ranked fifth, did his B.Tech in Computer Science from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi. He also selected Sociology as an optional subject.

The top 25 candidates are 11 women and 14 men with educational qualifications in engineering, science, humanities, and commerce from colleges such as IITs, VIT, JNU, and the University of Delhi.

The test also witnessed excellent performances from the benchmark disabled candidates. Out of 1,009 recommended candidates, 45 have disabilities and comprise 12 orthopedically disebale, eight visually challenged, 16 deaf, and nine having more than one disability.

UPSC Civil Services Final Result 2024 Yet to Be Announced: Where & How to Check Your Score

April 22, 2025, 2:26 pm

The Union Public Service Commission, or UPSC, has yet to announce the final result for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2024. When announced, candidates will have access to viewing their results at the official website — upsc.gov.in.

The interview round, or the personality test, finished on April 17, 2025. A total of 2,845 candidates were shortlisted for the interview procedure by UPSC, and it started from January 7 and continued in two shifts a day, i.e., 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Main Exam Held in September 2024

The main examination of the Civil Services was conducted over five days: September 20, 21, 22, 28, and 29, 2024. The examinations were conducted in two shifts—morning from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, and afternoon from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Mains exam commenced with Paper I and ended with Papers VI and VII. The main examination results were declared on December 9, 2024.

Prelims and Application Details

The first test was conducted on June 16, 2024, and the results were announced on July 1, 2024. Only shortlisted candidates who had cleared the prelims could appear for the Mains. The UPSC CSE 2024 application process began on February 14 and closed on March 5, 2024.

This year’s recruitment campaign is designed to recruit 1,056 officers in different administrative divisions of the central government.

How to Check UPSC Final Result 2024

Go to the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in
Click on the link “UPSC Civil Services Final Result 2024”
A PDF will appear—see if your roll number is in it
Download and save the PDF for later reference

For any more updates, applicants are requested to continue visiting the official website.

SC Grant Relief to Puja Khedkar, Protects from Arrest till Next Hearing

January 15, 2025, 1:52 pm

In a significant development, the Supreme Court has provided relief to Puja Khedkar, an IAS probationer accused of misrepresenting her application for the 2022 UPSC Civil Services Examination to avail of reservation benefits. The apex court intervened and protected Puja Khedkar from arrest till February 14, 2025, offering her a major reprieve after the Delhi High Court had earlier denied her anticipatory bail.

Supreme Court Notice to Delhi Govt and UPSC

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court bench of Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma issued a notice to the Delhi government and the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in response to Khedkar’s plea for anticipatory bail. The case will again be heard on February 14, 2025. Khedkar’s counsel during the proceedings strongly rebutted the allegations against her and asserted her innocence.

Delhi High Court Rejects Bail

The case is from December 2023, when the Delhi High Court refused to grant anticipatory bail to Khedkar, accused of cheating and allegedly wrongfully availing OBC and disability quotas in the UPSC exam. The Delhi Police and the UPSC had opposed the bail plea, considering the seriousness of the accusations against Khedkar. Still, Khedkar had approached the Supreme Court to seek a stay on her arrest.

Cheating Allegations Against Puja Khedkar

The controversy began in July 2023 when the UPSC launched an inquiry into Khedkar’s civil services examination attempt. The UPSC claimed that Khedkar had misrepresented her identity in order to avail multiple attempts in the examination under OBC and disability categories. This led to the registration of a criminal case against her, invoking provisions of the Indian Penal Code, Information Technology Act, and the Right of Persons with Disabilities Act. The Delhi Police subsequently filed an FIR against Khedkar.

Interim Protection Granted in August 2023

After the FIR was filed, Khedkar moved the Delhi High Court for anticipatory bail, citing that she was falsely implicated in the case. Although the High Court rejected her plea initially, it granted her interim protection against arrest on 12 August 2023. The court gave her interim relief several times but ultimately rejected her application for pre-arrest bail in December 2023. This is the reason why Khedkar is now appealing before the Supreme Court.

Khedkar Denies Charges

Khedkar has been denying the charges throughout the legal process, stating that she did not indulge in any fraudulent activities during the UPSC examination process. Her lawyers have argued that the allegations against her are baseless and politically motivated.

The case continues to attract considerable attention, given the profile of the UPSC exams and the necessity to maintain fairness and transparency in the selection process. The Supreme Court has, in the meanwhile, granted Khedkar protection from arrest for the time being, which has been a temporary reprieve for her, and her supporters are hoping for a positive outcome when the matter is taken up again in February.

Legal and Political Ramifications

The result of this case will have deep implications, not only for Khedkar but for the credibility of the UPSC examination process as well. Khedkar will face serious legal repercussions if proven guilty, and he may also be disqualified from appearing in the civil services examinations further. The case has also sparked questions regarding the effectiveness of the systems in place to check on the authenticity of the information furnished by the applicants and to prevent fraudulent practices.

UPSC to Use Aadhaar-Based Authentication for Candidate Verification Amid Identity Fraud Case

August 29, 2024, 9:45 am

For the first time, the Centre has authorized the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to use Aadhaar-based authentication for verifying candidates’ identities on a voluntary basis during registration and various stages of examinations and recruitment. This decision follows last month’s cancellation of provisional candidature for probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar, who was barred from future exams for fraudulently exceeding the allowed attempts in the civil services examination.

Khedkar was also accused of improperly using disability and Other Backward Classes (OBC, non-creamy layer) quotas, among other allegations.

According to a notification from the Personnel Ministry, the UPSC is now permitted to perform Aadhaar authentication voluntarily to verify candidates’ identities at the time of registration on the ‘One Time Registration’ portal and at different stages of examination or recruitment tests. This will utilize Yes/No or e-KYC authentication facilities.

The commission is required to comply with all provisions of the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits, and Services) Act, 2016, as well as the related rules, regulations, and directions issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).

Aadhaar is a unique 12-digit identification number issued by the UIDAI based on biometric and demographic data of eligible citizens.

In July, the UPSC took several actions against Khedkar, including filing a forgery case for attempting the civil services exam by falsifying her identity. The Delhi Police subsequently registered a case and initiated an investigation.

Khedkar, who was provisionally allotted to the Indian Administrative Service (2023 batch, Maharashtra cadre), was also accused of abusing power and privileges during her training in Pune.

Additionally, in June, the UPSC decided to implement facial recognition and artificial intelligence-based CCTV surveillance systems to prevent cheating and impersonation in its examinations. It invited bids from public sector undertakings for two technological solutions: “Aadhaar-based fingerprint authentication (or digital fingerprint capturing) and facial recognition of candidates, along with QR code scanning of e-admit cards” and “Live AI-based CCTV surveillance service” to be used during the examination process.

The UPSC conducts 14 major exams annually, including the prestigious civil services examination for selecting officers for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and Indian Police Service (IPS). It also conducts numerous recruitment tests and interviews each year for induction into Group ‘A’ and Group ‘B’ posts of the central government, with lakhs of candidates participating across the country.

Lateral entry: UPSC Asked To cancel Advt

August 21, 2024, 1:28 am

he government on Tuesday morning decided to withdraw its earlier order to recruit “talented and motivated Indian nationals” for 45 posts in the positions of joint secretary, director, and deputy secretary in 24 departments through lateral entry, a recruitment process which was to be conducted by the Union Public Service Commission.

The idea of lateral entry is regarded as one of the forward-looking policies aimed at reforming the bureaucracy and making it more accountable and answerable.
Ever since the UPSC issued the advertisement for these 45 posts on 17 August, Opposition leaders, including LoP Rahul Gandhi, and ally LJP, had criticised the move, saying it was against the backward communities.

The government’s decision became clear after Union Minister Jitender Singh wrote a letter to the UPSC to cancel the latest recruitment process as it did not have a provision for ‘reservation.’

Singh, in his letter to the UPSC Chairman Preeti Sudan, stated that the lateral entry system was endorsed by the Second Administrative Reforms Commission, which was constituted in 2005 and chaired by senior Congress leader Veerappa Moily. It highlighted how under previous governments, lateral entry was done, including in Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Singh had also written that after Modi came to power, he had made the process “constitutionally-driven, transparent, and open”.

After highlighting the positives and the reasons for bringing this process, Singh stated that UPSC should cancel the recruitment for the sake of ‘social justice.’ “I urge the UPSC to cancel the advertisement for lateral entry recruitment issued on August 17, 2024. This step would be a significant advance in the pursuit of social justice and empowerment,” the letter said.

Earlier, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had attacked the Opposition by stating that lateral entry in bureaucracy had been happening since the 1970s during Congress-led governments, with former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Montek Singh Ahluwalia being prominent examples of this.

Another ally, JDU, which has 12 Lok Sabha MPs, too has flayed the move. The criticism by Paswan and JDU can mostly be attributed to assembly elections in Bihar, which are slated for next year but, as per speculation, might be preponed. Both parties rely on voters from the backward community to justify their political significance.

The Telugu Desam Party, which has 16 MPs, had welcomed the lateral entry system. Andhra Pradesh minister and TDP National General Secretary Nara Lokesh had told the media that he was in support of the lateral entry system as “several of these (government) departments need expertise, and we are happy it (lateral entry) is being brought in.
“We have always been in favour of taking expertise from the private sector into the government. The government should learn from the private and vice versa. We support this move by the Central government as it will enhance the quality of governance and delivery of services to the common citizen,” he had told the media.

The BJP’s outreach to the backward community on the advice of a few leaders who come from specific backward community but whose supporters portray them as leaders of the entire backward community has, in recent times, hurt the party’s perception and votes in crucial states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, with its candidates failing to secure the votes and support of the forward community due to this ‘pandering’ to the views of the few select leaders of the backward community.

The news is also likely to ease the concerns among the all powerful bureaucratic lobby which was against this lateral entry system as it had the potential to challenge and shake their decades old hold over administration and governance in India.

Union Minister Requests UPSC Chairman to Cancel Lateral Entry Advertisement Following PM’s Directive

August 20, 2024, 1:46 pm

In a significant development on Tuesday, the Minister of the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) formally requested the Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to withdraw the advertisement for lateral entry positions. This decision follows direct instructions from the Prime Minister.

The advertisement, which was aimed at filling various senior positions through lateral entry, has been a point of contention. The Minister’s request to cancel the advertisement indicates a shift in policy or strategy, likely influenced by recent developments or concerns raised at the highest levels of government.

The Prime Minister’s directive underscores the importance of aligning public service recruitment practices with current administrative priorities and ensuring that the process meets the expectations of governance and transparency.

Further details on the rationale behind this request and its potential implications for the UPSC’s recruitment process are anticipated as the situation develops.

Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Modi’s Lateral Entry, RSS Appointments

August 18, 2024, 5:17 pm

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday sharply criticized the lateral entry system for top government positions, alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is appointing public servants through the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) rather than following the traditional Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) route.

In a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Gandhi accused the Modi government of undermining the reservation system by bypassing the UPSC and recruiting individuals aligned with the RSS for key posts. “Narendra Modi is attacking the Constitution by recruiting public servants through the ‘Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’ instead of the Union Public Service Commission,” Gandhi stated.

He further alleged that this practice is “snatching away” the reservation benefits meant for SC, ST, and OBC categories by filling important positions in various central government ministries through lateral entry. Gandhi argued that such moves not only bypass merit but also deprive talented candidates from marginalized communities of opportunities in public service.

“Reservation for SC, ST, and OBC categories is being openly snatched away by recruiting through lateral entry on important posts in various ministries of the central government,” he added.

The Congress leader also raised concerns about corporate influence in government appointments, citing the recent appointment of SEBI chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, who has been linked to the Adani Group. “A prime example of what representatives of a few corporates will do by occupying key government positions is SEBI, where for the first time a person from the private sector has been made the chairperson,” Gandhi remarked.

Gandhi warned that this trend is leading to the “privatization of IAS” and is part of what he described as “Modi’s guarantee” to end the reservation system. He emphasized that the INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) coalition will strongly oppose what he termed as an “anti-national move” that threatens both the administrative structure and social justice.

“This is a robbery of the rights of talented youth preparing for UPSC and an attack on the concept of social justice, including reservation for the deprived,” Gandhi said. He vowed that the INDIA alliance would resist such practices, which he described as detrimental to the nation.

Gandhi’s remarks come in the wake of a recent Allahabad High Court ruling that directed the government to prepare a fresh selection list for 69,000 assistant teacher appointments in Uttar Pradesh—a decision he praised as a “befitting reply” to what he termed as the BJP government’s conspiracy against the reservation system.

The debate around lateral entry has sparked discussions on the role of the UPSC, social justice, and the integrity of India’s administrative structure.

CBI takes over Three UPSC Aspirants’ Death Investigation

August 7, 2024, 3:26 pm

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Wednesday took over the Delhi coaching center deaths case, in which three UPSC aspirants drowned in the basement in Old Rajinder Nagar, officials said.

A senior CBI official informed that the agency has taken over the case by registering an FIR into the matter and all documents about the investigation have been handed over by Delhi Police to CBI.

“After the initial formalities, the CBI team will soon be visiting the spot where the incident took place for a detailed investigation into the matter,” the official said.

On Aug 2, the Delhi High Court transferred the investigation to the CBI. The court was unsatisfied with the investigation done by Delhi Police in the case.

Earlier on Wednesday, Rouse Avenue Court Delhi issued notice to CBI after hearing the bail pleas of four co-owners of the basement. Principal District and Session judge Anuj Bajaj Chandana issued notice to CBI after noticing that the process of transfer of the case, as instructed by the High Court, was not completed, and called for a status report from the CBI.

The accused have been booked Under sections 105,106(1), 115(2), 290, 3(5) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 in an FIR registered at Police station Rajinder Nagar on July 27. The accused were arrested on July 28.

On August 5, the Supreme Court took suo motu cognisance on the issue related to safety norms in the coaching centres. A bench of justices, Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, observed that such institutes have become “death chambers” as the top court was hearing the petition filed by the Coaching Federation of India.

The court took note of the recent incident in the Old Rajinder Nagar in Delhi and orally said, “These places (coaching centres) have become death chambers. You are taking away the lives of young ones coming from different parts of the country.”

The court said that recent unfortunate incidents taking the lives of some of the young aspirants who joined coaching centres for their career pursuits are eye-openers for all. The court further suggested that such institutes shall operate through online classes until they fully comply with the fire and safety norms under the Master Plan of Delhi, 2021, read with Unified Building Bye-Laws of Delhi, 2016.

On July 27 three civil services aspirants after a basement library at Rau’s IAS Circle was flooded during heavy rain in Old Rajinder Nagar, reportedly causing damage to the single biometric entry and exit point of the basement.

The incident claimed the lives of two women students, Shreya Yadav (Uttar Pradesh) and Tanya Soni (Telangana), and Nivin Dalwin (Kerala), in the basement of the institute.

“Changed Her & Parents’ Name”: How Former IAS Trainee Officer Puja Khedkar Duped UPSC

July 31, 2024, 6:12 pm

Puja Khedkar, a former IAS trainee officer, has been exposed for fraudulently passing the Civil Services entrance exam multiple times beyond the permissible limit for general category candidates. Khedkar achieved this by changing her name and the names of her parents, which allowed her to bypass detection by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Her case came under scrutiny after allegations surfaced that she had faked visual and mental disabilities to qualify for the exam.

The UPSC, responsible for overseeing the exam, admitted that it had only conducted a preliminary scrutiny of Khedkar’s certificates during the application process. This involved verifying if the certificates were issued by a competent authority but did not extend to reviewing the validity of the claims made. The UPSC noted that due to the large volume of certificates submitted annually, it generally accepts the certificates as genuine without further investigation.

Upon discovering the fraud, the UPSC revoked Khedkar’s selection as a junior government officer and banned her from taking any future UPSC exams. The Commission issued a notice to Khedkar, providing her until 3:30 PM on Tuesday to respond. Despite this extension, she failed to provide an explanation, leading to the cancellation of her provisional candidature.

The UPSC’s review of records from 15,000 other candidates between 2009 and 2023 found no similar violations. Khedkar, who had been posted to Pune as an Assistant Collector and later transferred to Washim district before being recalled to a training institute in Uttarakhand, had previously received perks such as a siren for her luxury vehicle and a government sticker, which drew further scrutiny.

Additionally, Khedkar’s claims to an OBC ‘non-creamy layer’ status were invalidated when it was revealed that her father, Dilip Khedkar, a former Maharashtra government officer, owned property worth ₹40 crore. Khedkar’s disability claim, which alleged an “old ACL tear with left knee instability,” was also questioned. In response to the allegations, Khedkar had accused Pune Collector Suhas Divase of harassment, but Divase has denied these charges.

UPSC Cancels Provisional Candidature Of Controversial IAS Officer Puja Khedkar

July 31, 2024, 4:05 pm

The provisional candidature of controversial trainee IAS officer Puja Manorama Dilip Khedkar was cancelled by the Union Public Service Commission in view of the irregularities noticed in her application related to the civil services examination, 2022. Moreover, Khedkar is debarred from appearing at any examination conducted by UPSC.

According to the investigations, Khedkar, who had secured an all-India rank of 821 in the UPSC examinations, had misused her powers to avail herself of more attempts at the civil services examination, which was actually barred due to identity manipulation. This included changing her name, parents’ names, photograph, signature, email ID, mobile number, and address to bypass examination rules.

Thereafter, the UPSC filed an FIR against her with Delhi police. The UPSC said that Khedkar had produced fake documents to claim physical disability and issued her a show-cause notice.

The decision comes after the Maharashtra government struck her off the District Training Programme and called her back to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, Mussoorie. Her training has been suspended by the institution.

A Delhi court will hear Khedkar’s anticipatory bail plea today. The hearing was adjourned from Tuesday after the public prosecutor sought more time. Meanwhile, Khedkar’s mother Manorama Khedkar was remanded in 14-day judicial custody by a Pune court recently in connection with a land dispute case for allegedly threatening people with a gun.

No Action On Complaints: Karol Bagh Residents Point Finger At Delhi Administration

July 29, 2024, 12:17 pm

The drowning deaths of three students at Rau’s IAS Study Circle in Delhi’s Old Rajendra Nagar have sparked outrage among local residents, who accuse the authorities of negligence and failure to address the illegal use of basements.

On June 26, Karol Bagh resident Kishor Singh Kushwaha lodged a complaint with the Delhi Public Grievance Monitoring System (PGMS), highlighting the unlawful operation of classes in the basement of the coaching institute. Despite submitting two follow-up reminders on July 15 and July 22, the issue remained unresolved.

Kushwaha stated, “Had the administration acted promptly, this tragedy might have been prevented. The area is plagued by illegal basement operations lacking the necessary NOCs and safety measures. This negligence by the administration is unacceptable.”

Another local resident, Ashok Sharma, criticized the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) for its inaction regarding frequent waterlogging in the area. “The MCD is aware of the waterlogging issues in this area but has failed to address them. Operating libraries in basements is prohibited, yet the MCD allowed it to continue,” Sharma said.

Attempts to contact MCD officials for comments on the complaint and their inaction were unsuccessful.

The tragic incident occurred on Saturday when the basement of Rau’s IAS Study Circle, which had been converted into a library, filled with water during a sudden downpour. The three deceased students, Tanya Soni, Nevin Dalvin, and Shreya Yadav, were trapped inside the flooded basement.

The authorities’ failure to enforce safety regulations and address infrastructure issues has raised serious concerns about the safety of similar establishments across Delhi.

Video: Rau’s IAS Faculty’s Reaction To Flooding During Live Class

July 29, 2024, 11:16 am

In a tragic incident at Rau’s IAS coaching centre in Delhi’s Old Rajendra Nagar, three UPSC civil services aspirants lost their lives due to rain-induced flooding. The victims, Tanya Soni, Nevin Dalvin, and Shreya Yadav, were trapped in the basement library of the coaching centre during a sudden downpour on Saturday.

This Video has been Removed from the Playlist of their YouTube Channel
We All Know Why!!!! pic.twitter.com/nYAPfaBw9j

— tweetsforupsc (@factsforupsc) July 28, 2024

A video circulating on social media reveals a faculty member at Rau’s IAS initially downplaying the severity of the situation during a live class. In the footage, the instructor is informed about the flooding and the issues it caused, such as blocked sewer lines and broken gates. Despite this, the faculty member chose to continue the lecture, stating, “The sewer line is blocked, roads are jammed, and the gate is broken. I’ve been informed to end the class early; otherwise, we won’t be able to reach home. So, what to do? Let’s continue with the lecture and see what happens.” He eventually ended the class midway, which had started at 6 pm.

WATCH THE VIDEO:

Video ?️ pic.twitter.com/Roo9EDd2Fr

— ????? ????? (@vipinyadavin) July 28, 2024

The coaching centre has since removed the video from its YouTube channel. Rau’s IAS issued a statement expressing deep condolences and confirming full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. “Our thoughts are profoundly with the families during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement read.

The Delhi Police have arrested the owner and the coordinator of Rau’s IAS Study Circle, charging them with culpable homicide and other offenses. Authorities cited inadequate drainage systems, lack of safety measures, and non-compliance with norms as contributing factors to the tragedy.

Atul Garg, Director of Delhi Fire Services, reported that emergency services received a call around 7:10 pm about the flooding and students trapped in the basement. Firefighters faced challenges as rainwater continued to flow into the basement, initially increasing the water level to 12 feet. Once the flow subsided, they managed to lower the water level to 8 feet and recover the bodies of the deceased students.

This incident has sparked concerns about safety protocols and emergency preparedness in educational institutions. The investigation continues as the authorities seek to determine the full extent of the negligence involved.

UPSC Plans Biometric Tech Upgrade; Deshmukh Alleges BJP Pressure

July 25, 2024, 2:25 pm

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced plans to adopt advanced digital biometric technologies to prevent impersonation and fraud in its exams, prompted by recent incidents like trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar allegedly using false identity to sit for exams. UPSC aims to enhance exam integrity through measures such as Aadhaar-based fingerprint authentication, facial recognition, QR code scanning for e-Admit Cards, and AI-based CCTV surveillance, though specific rollout dates are pending.

In another story, former Maharashtra home minister Anil Deshmukh accused a BJP intermediary, allegedly linked to Devendra Fadnavis, of pressuring him to file false affidavits against Maha Vikas Aghadi leaders, including Uddhav Thackeray and Aaditya Thackeray. Deshmukh claimed this was in exchange for protection from investigations by ED and CBI, which he declined, resulting in actions against him. Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Raut supported Deshmukh’s allegations, calling it a conspiracy. Fadnavis dismissed the claims as baseless, vowing to present evidence if accusations persist. BJP’s Ram Kadam questioned the timing, suggesting political motives ahead of elections.

UPSC To Revamp Exam System With New Tech After Pooja Khedkar ‘Fraud’ Case: Facial Recognition And QR Codes…

July 25, 2024, 12:41 pm

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has called for tenders to acquire the latest digital biometric technologies to strengthen measures against impersonation, cheating, and fraud in its examinations.

This decision follows an incident involving trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar, who is alleged to have used a false identity to sit for the civil services exam. Last week, UPSC issued a show cause notice proposing to cancel her appointment.

According to UPSC, the controversial IAS officer “fraudulently availed attempts beyond the permissible limit under the Examination Rules by faking her identity by way of changing her name, her father’s & mother’s name, her photograph/ signature, her email ID, mobile number and address.”

How are UPSC exams likely to change?

UPSC, a constitutional body, conducts 14 major examinations and numerous recruitment tests and interviews for Group ‘A’ and Group ‘B’ posts in the central government each year.

To maintain the integrity of its exams, UPSC plans to implement advanced digital technologies to verify and cross-check candidates’ biometric details and monitor exam activities to prevent cheating, fraud, and impersonation.

The planned security enhancements include:

Aadhaar-based fingerprint authentication or digital fingerprint capture
Facial recognition for candidates
QR code scanning for e-Admit Cards
Live AI-based CCTV surveillance during exams

In the tender issued to Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) on July 18, UPSC has not detailed whether these measures will be in place for upcoming exams. The commission noted that it may use any or all of these services, either partially or fully, at its discretion during its examinations.

Early Resignation Of UPSC Chief Manoj Soni: What’s The Real Reason?

July 20, 2024, 11:12 am

Manoj Soni, Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), has resigned from his position nearly five years before the end of his tenure. According to sources speaking to The Hindu, Soni stepped down for personal reasons.

Soni, who joined the UPSC as a member in 2017, was appointed Chairperson on May 16, 2023, with his tenure set to conclude in 2029. A top source revealed that Soni submitted his resignation about a month ago. However, it remains uncertain whether his resignation will be accepted.

The source clarified that Soni’s resignation is unrelated to recent controversies involving UPSC candidates allegedly using fake certificates to secure seats.

Uncertainty Over Soni’s Replacement

Soni’s resignation was submitted to the President of India, but the government has not yet accepted it. Consequently, there is still no clarity on whether Soni will be officially relieved from his duties. The government has yet to announce a successor.

The Hindu reported that Soni is considered close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi had appointed Soni as Vice-Chancellor of Vadodara’s MS University in 2005 when he was only 40, making him the youngest Vice-Chancellor in the country. Before joining the UPSC, Soni served as Vice-Chancellor for three terms across two universities in Gujarat, including two terms at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU) until 2015.

UPSC Leadership and Structure

The UPSC, a constitutional body established under Articles 315-323 of the Indian Constitution, is led by a Chairperson and up to ten other members. Under Soni’s leadership, the commission included seven other members: Dinesh Dasa, former Chairman of the Gujarat Public Service Commission; BB Swain, a former Gujarat cadre IAS officer; Sheel Vardhan Singh, a former IPS officer; Sanjay Verma, a former diplomat; and Preeti Sudan, a former Union Health Secretary.

The UPSC plays a crucial role in recruiting personnel for various central government positions, ensuring the integrity and efficiency of the Indian civil services. Soni’s resignation comes at a critical time, raising questions about the commission’s future leadership and direction.

UPSC Cancels IAS Probationer Puja Khedkar’s Candidature Over Exam Fraud

July 19, 2024, 2:45 pm

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has taken stringent action against IAS probationer Puja Khedkar by filing a case and issuing a show cause notice for the cancellation of her candidature from the Civil Services Examination 2022. Khedkar, a provisionally recommended candidate, is also facing debarment from future exams.

In an official statement released on Friday, July 19, the UPSC detailed the findings of a thorough investigation into Khedkar’s conduct. The investigation revealed that she fraudulently exceeded the permissible number of attempts for the Civil Services Examination by falsifying her identity. She allegedly changed her name, her parents‘ names, her photograph, signature, email ID, mobile number, and address to evade the examination rules.

UPSC has, initiated a series of actions against her, including Criminal Prosecution by filing an FIR with the Police Authorities and has issued a Show Cause Notice (SCN) for cancellation of her candidature of the Civil Services Examination-2022/ debarment from future… pic.twitter.com/ho417v93Ek

— ANI (@ANI) July 19, 2024

“The UPSC filed a First Information Report (FIR) with the police authorities, initiating a sequence of proceedings against her, including criminal prosecution. A show cause notice has been issued for the cancellation of her candidature and debarment from future examinations, in accordance with the rules of the Civil Services Examination 2022,” the statement read.

The UPSC emphasized its unwavering commitment to maintaining the integrity and fairness of its examination processes. The commission assured that it adheres strictly to its Constitutional mandate and conducts all examinations with the highest level of due diligence.

“The UPSC has deservedly earned the trust and credibility of a very high order from the public, especially the candidates. The Commission is unequivocally committed to ensuring that this high order of trust and credibility remains intact and uncompromised,” the statement further noted.

Maharashtra Halts Training for Controversial IAS Trainee Puja Khedkar

July 16, 2024, 6:47 pm

On Tuesday, the Maharashtra Government ordered trainee Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Puja Khedkar to return to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. The directive, issued by Additional Chief Secretary Nitin Gadre, states that Khedkar’s district training program has been put on hold, and she must report back to the academy by July 23, 2024, at the latest.

Allegations and Controversies

Puja Khedkar recently attracted attention following allegations of demanding a separate office and an official car, as well as unauthorized use of a beacon in her private car. Earlier this month, Pune District Collector Suhas Diwase submitted a report to the state government detailing “objectionable behavior” by Khedkar and her father.

Academic and Career Background

Khedkar completed her MBBS and made several attempts at the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams, securing a position in the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) in 2019. However, she did not join due to “technical issues in her OBC allocation.” In 2021, she secured the 821st rank in the Civil Services Examination but later faced a legal battle against the UPSC in the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) for not presenting herself for a medical examination to confirm her disability claim.

Puja Khedkar’s journey from medicine to the IAS, marred by controversies and legal disputes, continues to unfold as she heads back to the academy for further necessary action.

NDA 2 Notification 2024 Released, Apply Online For 404 Posts

May 15, 2024, 12:15 pm

The NDA Exam is held biannually to select qualified candidates for admission into the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and for Indian Naval Academy Courses (INAC). For the upcoming year, the exam will be conducted for the 154th NDA Course and the 116th INAC. Both male and female candidates will be selected through a written examination followed by SSB interviews. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is scheduled to conduct the UPSC NDA 2 exam on September 1, 2024, to recruit officers for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The official notification for the NDA 2 Exam 2024 will be released on May 15, 2024 (Today).

NDA 2 Notification 2024

The NDA 2 Notification 2024 PDF for the NDA II Exam has been released by the UPSC on May 15, 2024, on their official website. This announcement has made clear that there are 404 vacancies available for unmarried boys and girls to be recruited for the fiscal year 2024-2025 for the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy. Conducted biannually by the UPSC, the NDA exam provides admission to the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the Indian Defence Forces, serving as a pathway for candidates to become officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

How to Apply for NDA Notification 2024

Visit the Official Website:
- Go to the UPSC’s official website: www.upsc.gov.in.
Find the Notification:
- On the homepage, look for the “Examinations” tab and click on it.
- Under the “Active Examinations” section, find the NDA 2 Notification 2024 link.
Read the Notification:
- Carefully read the notification to understand the eligibility criteria, important dates, and other details.
Registration:
- Click on the “Apply Online” link provided in the notification.
- You will be redirected to the UPSC Online Application Portal.
Complete Part I Registration:
- Click on the “New Registration” button.
- Fill in your basic details like name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number.
- After submitting, you will receive a Registration ID and password on your registered email ID and mobile number.
Complete Part II Registration:
- Log in using the Registration ID and password.
- Fill in the required details such as educational qualifications, address, and other personal information.
- Choose your preferred branch (Army, Navy, Air Force) and examination center.
Upload Documents:
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and any other required documents as per the specifications mentioned in the notification.
Pay the Application Fee:
- Pay the application fee through the available payment modes (credit/debit card, net banking, or e-challan).
- Check the notification for details on the fee amount and any exemptions applicable.
Submit the Application:
- Review all the information provided and ensure it is accurate.
- Click on the “Submit” button to complete your application.

NDA 2 Application Form 2024 Link

The application form has been released by the Union Public Service Commission. The candidates can now apply directly through the given link below.

Click Here to apply for NDA 2 Notification 2024

Farmer’s Son Pawan Kumar Achieves UPSC Dream, Ranks 239

April 30, 2024, 10:44 am

Pawan Kumar’s home is currently abuzz with his supporters and well-wishers. A tricolour is prominently displayed on the front of the house, and a narrow pathway leads to a small courtyard. Despite the limited space, it’s enough to accommodate the crowd that has gathered to congratulate the soon-to-be IAS officer.

Hailing from a modest village in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, Mr. Kumar has achieved his dream of cracking the UPSC exam, securing AIR 239 in the civil services exam.

As the son of a humble farmer, he grew up in a mud house amidst severe poverty. With only an asbestos roof over his head, Mr. Kumar faced numerous challenges but persevered, becoming an inspiration for the youth of his village, Raghunathpur.

While his father, Mukesh Kumar, hoped he would secure any job to support the family, Pawan Kumar had a singular ambition—to become an IAS officer and serve his village’s people.

“He wanted to be an IAS (officer) since childhood. I often asked him to get a part-time job. But he used to tell me not to disturb him. He has had no hobby apart from studying,” said his father.

The UPSC exam, known for its difficulty, proved challenging even for the most talented individuals. Mr. Kumar himself faced failure twice before finally succeeding on his third attempt.

Despite owning four bighas of agricultural land and a thatched hut, the family struggled financially, with his father working as a laborer to make ends meet. Pawan Kumar was deeply concerned about his family’s poverty and knew that education was the key to change their circumstances. According to his sister Goldie, he would study diligently whenever he was at home.

UPSC Tale: The Inspirational Odyssey of IAS Nirish Rajput

April 16, 2024, 11:28 pm

Stories of individuals transcending adversity to achieve success resonate deeply, particularly for aspirants navigating the challenging path of UPSC preparation. Within these narratives of ups and downs, what stands out is an unwavering determination and resilience, a steadfast commitment to persist despite facing numerous obstacles.

A remarkable story in the realm of UPSC success is that of IAS officer Nirish Rajput, whose journey from humble origins to esteemed achievement serves as a source of inspiration. Coming from the economically disadvantaged region of Bhind district in Madhya Pradesh, Nirish faced financial struggles from an early age. Raised in a family where meeting basic needs was a constant challenge, he took on the responsibility of helping his father by selling newspapers, displaying a maturity and sense of duty beyond his years.

Deprived of the opportunity for private schooling due to financial limitations, Nirish pursued his education in the halls of a government school. Despite the scarcity of resources, he persisted, eventually earning both a BSc and MSc degree, showcasing his natural intelligence and relentless determination.

Realizing his latent potential, Nirish began sharing his expertise at a UPSC coaching institute, following a friend’s recommendation, in return for study materials. For two years, he dedicated himself wholeheartedly to mentoring aspirants, garnering praise for his contributions to the institution. Yet, he faced a harsh blow when his friend, after achieving success, abruptly cut ties, leaving Nirish in a vulnerable financial state.

Undeterred by this setback, Nirish remained steadfast in his pursuit of UPSC success amidst the bustling streets of Delhi. Despite financial constraints, enrolling in renowned coaching institutes seemed out of reach. Nonetheless, he persevered, forming bonds with fellow students and diligently gathering study materials from their notes, demonstrating resourcefulness born from necessity.

His perseverance paid off as he proudly secured the UPSC with an impressive All India Rank of 370. Nirish’s journey from poverty to civil service excellence serves as a powerful testament to the transformative impact of determination, resilience, and unwavering passion in overcoming adversity.

K Shivaram, actor and former IAS officer passes away at 70

February 29, 2024, 3:09 pm

K Shivaram, a former IAS officer who also pursued careers in acting and politics, passed away on Thursday at a Bengaluru hospital at the age of 70.

Shivaram was born on 6th April, 1953 in Urugahalli village, Ramanagar district, to drama maestro Kempaiah and his wife Chikkaboramma. He achieved success in acting and bureaucracy, but his political career never fully took off.

One of his most notable achievements was being the first person to clear the UPSC exam in Kannada.

In 1972, Shivaram obtained a job in the state government following his graduation from Government High School in Malleswaram and completion of a typing and shorthand course. The following year, he joined the police department’s intelligence wing as a police reporter.

While working, he pursued BA and MA degrees through evening and distance learning. He was appointed Deputy Superintendent of Police in 1985 after passing the Karnataka Administrative Service (KAS) test.

In 1986, Shivaram achieved a childhood aspiration when he became the first Kannada individual to pass the UPSC exam and made history.

‘Baa Nalle Madhuchandrake,’ a 1993 musical thriller directed by Nagathihalli Chandrashekar, was a successful movie that launched his film career. He decided to put more of his attention into his bureaucratic job when most of his later cinematic endeavors failed to materialize. As the regional commissioner for Bengaluru, he retired in 2013.

After retiring, K Shivaram joined the Congress party. Later, he changed to the JD(S) and ran from Bijapur in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, losing to Ramesh Jigajinagi of the BJP. He eventually became a member of the BJP and was given a position on the state executive committee.

He is survived by his wife Vani Shivaram and a daughter, who is married to Kannada actor Pradeep.

UPSC more difficult than IIT JEE, X users tell Anand Mahindra

February 5, 2024, 12:32 pm

Anand Mahindra, who previously commended the movie 12th Fail and its lead actor Vikrant Massey for his performance, revealed on Sunday that he was motivated to look for additional information about how candidates study for the test and how challenging it is to pass it. An IIT alumnus who had also taken the UPSC exams reportedly informed him that the latter was more challenging while doing this.

The movie 12th Fail, which started the conversation, is based on the life of Manoj Kumar Sharma, an IPS officer who overcame severe poverty to pursue a career as a police officer.

“After seeing 12th Fail I checked around and spoke to several young people about the relative difficulty of our entrance exams. One of them was a graduate of IIT who is involved in a business startup but who has also taken the UPSC exam,” Anand Mahindra wrote on X. “He stated EMPHATICALLY that UPSC is much tougher than the IIT JEE.”

The chairperson of Mahindra Group also shared a post listing the top ten most difficult tests globally, with three from India including IIT JEE at number 2, UPSC at number 3, and GATE at number 8. Mahindra said that if the feedback he received was true then the global rankings should be updated to reflect it.

However, X users’ reactions to the post revealed different perspectives on the examinations.

“One of my relatives cleared IIT in the first attempt and cracked UPSC in 4th attempt. He always says that UPSC is the ‘mother of all exams’,” commented Neetu Khandelwal (@T_Investor_). Another user and government official Rahman Sheikh (@rahmanology) wrote, “The exam itself is not tough but it has 3 stages and every graduate can take it which makes the competition very tough. One small mistake and you are out of the race. But if the difficulty level of question papers is compared, of course, JEE is much tougher.”

UPSC IES, ISS 2023 Final Result Declared; Toppers Listed

January 25, 2024, 1:33 pm

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has declared the final results for the Indian Economic Service (IES) and Indian Statistical Service (ISS) exams in 2023. The results are available on the official website, including the merit list.

Nikhil Sindh secured the top position in the ISS exam, while Nishchal Mittal emerged as the topper in the IES exam.

The examinations for both services took place from June 23 to 25, followed by interviews conducted from December 18 to 21 for the shortlisted candidates. UPSC recommended 18 candidates for IES positions and 33 for ISS positions. However, results for seven candidates (3 in IES and 4 in ISS) are provisional. These candidates will receive the offer of appointment only after the verification of original documents, and the provisional status clarification. The validity of the results for these candidates is three months, and failure to produce the required documents will result in the cancellation of their candidature, as specified by the UPSC.

The candidates’ marks will be available on the website within fifteen days from the date of the results announcement.

UPSC IES 2023 Toppers List:

Nishchal Mittal
Aditi Jha
Purnima Suden
Rejju Rana
Shubhi Chauhan
Pavit
Yusra Anees
Monika Narayan
Riya Yadav
Vaibhav Rathore
Vishnu K Venugopal
Pranchal Gupta
Shitole Rashmi, Sangeetkumar
Shabeena Begum, Mohd Yaqub
Tabhane Tejaswini Yashwant
Parul Singh
Vishal Aryan
Vishakha Gupta

UPSC ISS 2023 Toppers List:

Nikhil Singh
Janhvi Patel
Vijay Ladha
Agrima Rastogi
Prakhar Gupta
Srishti Agarwal
Shivanshi Shukla
Prateek Naik
Swati Gupta
Rajni Prajapat
Rohit Kumar Sudhansu
Sumanpreet Kaur
Narawade Yogita Ankush
Harshit Kumar Alawat
Nayan Deep Gupta
Ravi Shankar Maurya
Saumya Mishra
Shubham Kesharwani
Simran
Yogesh Kumar
Pooja Kumari
Shobh Raj
Rupesh Jalwal
Rupin Soni
Ankit Yadav
Rekha Gupta
Manish Meena
Prashant Nanaware
Sanju Das
Debdut Saha
Gaurav Kumar
Lokesh Kumar
Payal Meena

Check Result Here – UPSC ISS 2023 Final Result

Check Result Here – UPSC IES 2023 Final Result

Varun Dhawan praises Vikrant Massey for 12th fail

January 23, 2024, 2:38 pm

12th Fail, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, is undoubtedly one of the most talked-about movies from the previous year, starring Medha Shankar, Vikrant Massey, and more.

It tells the story about IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma , where he fearlessly embraces the idea of restarting his academic journey and reclaiming his destiny at a place where millions of students attempt the world’s toughest competitive exam: UPSC.

Many celebrities have showered praises on the film, and the latest addition to the list is Varun Dhawan. Varun Dhawan posted a 12th Fail poster on his Instagram account. The poster showcases Anshumaan Pushkar, Medha Shankar, and Vikrant Massey as the main cast members. The Bawaal actor claims to have been deeply moved by the story of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma, to the extent that he wrote “This film has to be one of the most beautiful films I have seen in a long long time thank you for this. @medhashankar @vidhuvinodchoprafilms @vikrantmassey Kya baat hai yaar” with a clap emoji.

Vikrant has captured a student with the utmost honesty in one of his most brilliant portraits to date. Vikrant Massey is a living example of an actor whose performance goes above and beyond expectations. His tenderness, rage, and joy are all palpable as he walks us through his arduous ascent to the summit.Vikrant receives a lot of help from Medha Shankar. Their undying love, chemistry, and simple ability to support one another through difficult times makes them worthy of being treasured for a very long time.The best friend someone could ask for in their lifetime is Anant Joshi.

UPSC Students Hold Protest In Delhi

December 21, 2022, 12:40 pm

Delhi police detained students protesting in Delhi’s Old Rajinder Nagar area demanding an extra attempt to clear Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam. The students demanded an extra attempt pointing out the pandemic and said the centre should allow one more attempt as 18 states have already permitted the same.