UPSC 2023 Topper's Mock Essay Goes Viral, Sparking Debate on Exam Relevance

NEW DELHI: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) recently declared its Civil Services Examination (CSE) results, with Lucknow's Aditya Srivastava emerging as the top scorer. As aspiring civil servants gear up for the 2024 prelims, a purported essay mock test written by Srivastava has gone viral, generating mixed reactions and reigniting the debate on the role of essays in the UPSC selection process.

The essay, titled "A mind all logic is like a knife all blade, it makes the hand bleed that uses it," delves into the potential pitfalls of an overly logical approach. It reportedly begins with a reference to J. Robert Oppenheimer's reflections on the Manhattan Project. While its authenticity cannot be definitively confirmed, the essay has captivated online communities dedicated to UPSC preparation.
Viral Essay Sparks Debate
Netizens' responses have been a spectrum of praise and criticism. Some admire the essay's structure, use of historical references, and overall presentation. Others, however, question the authenticity of the essay being a true reflection of Srivastava's work, considering mock tests are often not representative of a candidate's final performance.
Expert Insights: Perspectives from UPSC Preparation Circles
Rishikesh Taksale, a prominent voice in UPSC preparation circles, emphasizes the limitations of mock tests and stresses that the UPSC prioritizes a level playing field for all backgrounds. He highlights that essay writing is just one aspect of the selection process, not the sole determining factor.

Critiques and Challenges: Examining Different Viewpoints
Archit Chandak, an IPS officer and IIT Delhi alumnus, critiques the negativity surrounding the essay. He encourages aspirants to focus on mastering all seven written papers – including the essay – to succeed in the exam.

However, the debate goes beyond mere technicalities. Ishwar Singh, a business leader advocating for AI and automation solutions, questions the relevance of testing outdated skills like essay writing. He posits the need to nurture critical thinking and innovation in future civil servants.

Concerns Raised: Scrutinizing Essay Criteria
Swathi Bellam, an orthodontist, raises concerns about the essay's focus on "verbose Macaulay English prose" as a selection criterion. She questions whether such skills translate into real-world problem-solving abilities required for effective governance.

Looking Ahead: Reflecting on the Future of UPSC Selection
The UPSC CSE undeniably plays a vital role in selecting future bureaucrats who shape India's policy landscape. The viral essay and the ensuing discussions highlight the ongoing conversation about the exam's effectiveness in identifying well-rounded individuals with the aptitude and vision to lead the nation. Whether the UPSC adapts its selection process to incorporate evolving skills and knowledge remains to be seen, but the discourse surrounding Srivastava's essay serves as a timely reminder to continuously evaluate and improve this crucial pathway to public service.