Why Some UPSC Officers Leave Within Weeks
Imagine preparing for years for UPSC, sacrificing family and personal time, pushing through endless books, and finally clearing one of the most challenging exams in the country. You walk into your first day of training feeling proud, hopeful, and ready to make a difference. Then, within weeks, you decide to step away.
It may seem surprising, yet it happens more often than people realise. These early resignations are not simply career moves; they are the result of dreams meeting a reality that does not match expectations.
Is UPSC a True Calling or Just a Status Symbol?
For many, clearing the UPSC exam represents a proud achievement and a respected title. It brings a sense of honor that is hard to match. But for those who do not have a deep-rooted passion for public service, that initial enthusiasm can fade quickly. When the work starts, the reality of dealing with bureaucracy and limited authority often feels very different from the noble vision they once held.
New officers often enter the service with hopes of making a real difference. At first, the job seems exciting and full of possibilities. However, as time goes on, they come face to face with the slow pace of progress and the many layers of approval that slow down decision-making. This experience can make them wonder if this career is truly the right fit. One officer expressed it plainly, saying, “The respect you receive at the start feels rewarding, but soon you notice challenges that most people do not talk about.”
Why Leaving Early Matters
When someone steps away so soon, it is not just a personal decision. The position they leave behind could have been taken by someone who has dreamed for years of serving in that role. For those individuals, the chance to serve is a lifelong goal, and losing that opportunity can be disheartening.
The Interview Stage Debate
For aspirants, reaching the interview stage after passing the preliminary and mains exams is a huge achievement. Yet, if they do not succeed in that final step, they must begin the entire process again the following year. Some believe that if a candidate has already cleared the mains, they should be allowed to retake only the interview. This change could reduce stress and ensure that committed candidates remain in the running.
Conclusion
If UPSC is to remain a place for those who genuinely wish to serve, certain changes could help. Introducing a minimum service period might encourage officers to stay long enough to truly understand the role before making a decision to leave. Rethinking the interview process could also make the system more efficient and fair.
This exam must represent more than just a milestone or personal success. It should symbolize a promise to serve the country, embraced by those willing to invest their time and effort wholeheartedly in public service.
