Some people adapt to the mold of time, while others transform it.
These lines reflect the essence of life’s purpose. Every aspirant strives to find a meaningful career that aligns with their talents, interests, and abilities. Their goal is to achieve their ambitions, attain satisfaction, and find meaning in life, all while earning a respectable living. The desire to develop one’s personality and do something unique and great is inherent in every aspirant. This ambition drives them to dream big, which ultimately takes them to the zenith of achievement. As Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam aptly said, “Dream, dream, dream! Conduct these dreams into thought, then transform them into action.”
The Role of Civil Services in Achieving Personal and National Growth
When an aspirant achieves greatness in life, they become a role model in their field. Whether it’s in literature, music, arts, engineering, medicine, cinema, sports, politics, administration, or social service, their creative expression and exceptional performance set them apart.
The Fundamental Duties in the Constitution of India state:
“To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity so that the nation constantly rises to higher levels of endeavor and achievement.”
This duty suggests that every citizen, regardless of their field, should strive to improve both their personal and social lives and achieve success through continuous effort.
Civil Services: A Path to Meaningful Contribution
For those searching for meaning in life, clearing the Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) or State Public Service Commissions (SPSC) and becoming a part of the Indian Civil Services can be an excellent choice. But why should one opt for the Civil Services, especially when there are countless other career paths available? Before beginning any preparation, it’s essential to understand why you want to be in this field.
In my view, several motivational factors inspire young aspirants to pursue the Civil Services. Let’s explore some of these factors.
Motivation: The Key to Success in Civil Services Preparation
To perform well in any field or examination, a strong desire, dedication, and enthusiasm are prerequisites. Without motivation and enthusiasm, aspirants may lose sight of their goal or get distracted along the way. Therefore, a certain level of motivation and positive thinking is essential, both before and during the preparation for the Civil Services Examination.
The Opportunity to Contribute to National Development
I believe that the Civil Services, when guided by the values of the Constitution of India and the law, offer an immense opportunity to contribute meaningfully and effectively to society. The Civil Services are often referred to as the “Steel Frame” of the country because they play a key role in implementing and regulating plans and schemes across various sectors such as agriculture, industry, law and order, education, health, and welfare. These sectors directly or indirectly impact the lives of common people.
Diversity of Work in Civil Services
Another key aspect of the Civil Services is the diversity of its work. There is hardly any area of a citizen’s life that isn’t touched by the work of Civil Services. Civil servants can leverage their skills and talents to contribute to building a better society and nation.
The Fulfilment of Making a Difference
The sense of self-satisfaction and fulfilment derived from transforming lives is a powerful motivator for becoming a Civil Servant. Imagine the joy and fulfilment when you’re able to restore a poor, elderly woman’s pension after it had been stopped for months or when you bring about a positive change in the lives of marginalized communities, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, women, children, the differently abled, and labourers from the unorganized sector, by successfully implementing public welfare schemes. By following the principles and values of the Constitution of India, civil servants play a vital role in ensuring the “Rule of Law” and in contributing to creating a better environment for future generations.
In the 21st century, we need to draw inspiration from the passion of our freedom fighters and contribute to the nation’s development, with the vision of making India a global superpower.
Civil Services: A Platform for Social Impact
While professionals like teachers, doctors, engineers, lawyers, journalists, and social workers play important roles in various sectors, Civil Servants contribute at higher levels of policymaking, decision-making, and implementation. For example, take the case of Shree Rajesh Patil, an IAS officer of Odisha cadre, who worked as a child labourer in a small village in Maharashtra but later, as a collector, led the district to become free from child labour.
A Platform for Fulfilling Gandhiji’s Vision
The Civil Services also provide a unique platform for working towards the core principles taught by Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhiji once said, “I will give you a talisman. Whenever you are in doubt or when the self becomes too much with you, apply the following test: Recall the face of the poorest and the weakest man (or woman) whom you may have seen, and ask yourself, if the step you contemplate is going to be of any use to him (or her). Will he (or she) gain anything by it? Will it restore him (or her) to a control over his (or her) own life and destiny?”
Even a small step taken in the direction of fulfilling Gandhiji’s dream can bring immense satisfaction and joy. The Civil Services offer such opportunities every day to make meaningful changes in people’s lives.
Civil Services: A Prestigious and Respectable Career
Undoubtedly, the Civil Services are one of the most prestigious and respectable career options for young aspirants, especially those who seek both prestige and social recognition. The work in these services is not just a job—it is a service to the nation. However, Civil Services preparation cannot be driven solely by the pursuit of prestige or recognition. If you dream of joining the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), you must possess the passion, dedication, and perseverance required. You should be keenly aware of global and national events, feel empathy for your society and country, and strive to make your dream a reality. A world full of possibilities awaits you.