Low Rankers in the UPSC Exams: Career Paths and Outcomes

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams, commonly referred to as the Civil Services examination, serve as the primary selection process for various prestigious careers in the Indian civil services, such as IAS and IPS. However, not all candidates who appear for these exams secure high ranks, and it is natural to wonder what happens to the low rankers. The truth is, the opportunities are still significant, and these candidates can carve out successful careers in the allied services and beyond.

Understanding Rank Distribution

The UPSC exams attract a large number of aspirants every year, and the competition can be extremely fierce. The basic cut-offs are determined based on the overall performance, and only a fraction of the candidates make it to the final list of selected candidates. As a result, many candidates find themselves in a position where they do not secure a high rank but are still eligible for an array of alternative career opportunities.

Variety of Allied Services

While the primary focus of the UPSC exams is on IAS, IPS, and other high-ranking civil services positions, it is essential to recognize the vast array of allied services available to those who do not secure a high rank in the UPSC exams. These allied services offer a diverse range of job opportunities in areas such as:

Agriculture and Irrigation Services Forest and Environmental Services Social Services (e.g., Teaching, Social Work, and Community Development) Engineering Services (Structural, Mechanical, Civil, etc.) Medical Services (including Reserve Medical Services) Law and Judiciary Services (Legislative Assemblies, District Courts, etc.)

Paths to Success in Allied Services

The low rankers who still aspire to make a significant impact in the public sector can achieve success through a range of available avenues.

State Civil Services

Many of these candidates can secure coveted positions in State Civil Services (SCS), including positions in state-level institutions like the State Public Service Commission (SPSC), State Forest Services (SFS), and State Law Services (SLS). State-level positions offer a range of responsibilities and can be extremely prestigious, depending on the state’s reputation and the hierarchy within the state civil service.

Allied Services under UPSC

Some candidates may also be eligible to join a broad range of allied services that fall under the ambit of the UPSC but are not as well-known. These services, such as Additional State Services, Junior Transactional Experts (JTE), and Orderlies, require rigorous examinations and offer a variety of roles within the wider civil services system.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil Society

For candidates who prefer a more civilian and non-traditional career path, there are numerous opportunities within non-governmental organizations (NGOs), research institutions, and civil society organizations. These positions can include roles such as social workers, community development workers, and project managers.

Preparing for Allied Services

Candidates who do not secure a high rank in the UPSC exams can still make a difference in public service and achieve their career goals. Here are some tips for preparing for career opportunities in the allied services:

Create a Diverse Preparation Strategy: Focus on developing a strong understanding of the various allied services and the specific job roles within those services. This includes studying the job profiles, understanding the application processes, and researching the eligibility requirements. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with the official notifications and guidelines regarding the various allied services. Regularly visit the UPSC and relevant state-level civil service websites for the latest information. Get Hands-On Experience: Wherever possible, seek practical experience through internships, volunteering, or part-time positions related to the fields of your interest. This experience can be a valuable asset when applying for relevant positions. Improve Your Soft Skills: Enhance your communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for success in almost all civil service roles. Network: Build a professional network of mentors, colleagues, and peers who can offer guidance, support, and advice as you pursue your career in the allied services.

Conclusion

While the UPSC exams are highly competitive, securing a high rank is not the only path to a successful career in the civil services sector. Low rankers can still achieve great things by exploring a variety of allied services and leveraging their skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact.