- Years Lost Chasing Security
- Odds Stacked Against Aspirants
- Innovation Seen as Priority
- A Growing National Concern
Article Today, New Delhi:
Across the country, a large section of young people continues to revolve around the Civil Services examination. Many spend years confined to preparation, driven by the belief that a single government post ensures lifelong stability. This prolonged focus, however, has raised concerns about lost productive time and its wider impact on the economy and society.
Sanjeev Sanyal’s Critique
The debate gained momentum after noted economist Sanjeev Sanyal publicly questioned the value of such prolonged preparation. He argued that the Civil Services examination, in its present form, reflects an outdated approach to talent selection. According to him, the country gains little when a large pool of capable youth remains locked in exam cycles purely for job security.
Numbers that Reveal Imbalance
Meanwhile, official data highlight the scale of competition. Every year, close to one million candidates apply for the examination, while the number of final selections remains below one thousand. This translates into a success rate of about zero point one per cent. As a result, nearly nine lakh ninety nine thousand candidates are left without outcomes after investing years of effort.
The Emotional and Mental Toll
In addition, the long and uncertain selection process places immense psychological pressure on aspirants. Preparation typically spans two to five years, covering multiple stages from preliminary tests to interviews. Repeated failures, especially at later stages, often lead to stress, loss of confidence, and delayed career choices. Experts note that the most formative years of adulthood are frequently consumed by this uncertainty.
Education Lagging Behind Change
However, critics point out that the issue extends beyond one examination. The education system, they say, remains heavily oriented towards marks and competitive tests. While the global economy moves rapidly towards technology driven and innovation led growth, curricula and evaluation methods continue to reward rote learning. This mismatch limits creative thinking and discourages risk taking among the youth.
Need for Broader Opportunities
Therefore, many educationists argue for a shift in mindset. Government employment, they stress, should be seen as one option rather than the sole measure of success. Greater emphasis is needed on science, technology, entrepreneurship, and sports. Faster recruitment cycles, along with stronger private sector job creation, could help diversify career aspirations.
Rethinking Nation Building
Ultimately, national development depends not only on administration but also on innovation and enterprise. Creating new businesses, generating employment, and advancing research are equally vital forms of public service. Observers caution that treating the Civil Services as a life goal rather than a profession risks long term social and economic costs. A balanced approach, they say, would allow young people to contribute meaningfully without losing valuable years to a single pursuit.
