My UPSC   Interview

I have quickly jotted down the interview before it fades out of my memory.I attended UPSC Civil Services Interview on 28th Morning session.

Board was headed by UPSC Members Madam Sri. Shashi Uban Tripathi . Board was very cordial and pleasant. It is a life time experience. I was the fifth candidate in the session and it started on 1:00 PM and lasted till 1:30 PM.

CH: Good Morning.. What should i call you as? Is Saikrishna OK?

me: Yes maam. with a smile.

C: Tell me , What are you doing now?

me : I am working as a software engineer.

C: Where ?

me: in ________Inc. Hyderabad.

C: No, I am asking about the firm that you were working for from Feb  2007 to May 2008.

me:  Madam, Firm name is _______ and I was the first employee in the firm. I was also a part of the founding team and we developed a technology which matches the resumes of employment seekers and classifies them in to various sectors and link them to recruiters in the specific domain and charge a fee for every successful job.

C: What sectors were you working on?

me: Mostly in business related sectors such as Investment Banking, Insurance and so on..

C: Which levels ?

me: Madam, We were working at middle and upper levels.

C: So you were a head hunters?

me: No madam.. we help the recuiters to find the right candidate.( Other members have understood it and explains it further to her)

C: Ok, Tell me about your current firm? When did you join?

me : Madam, I have joined 15 days back.  It is an oil trading platform, I would be working in customising the application to suite clients like Gavilon.

C: Good.

C: What is corporate Social responsibility?

me: Madam, Corporate firms use several public resources like land, water and other things.. so they should be paying back something especially to the community in which their operations are held.

C: (Prompting) What % should it be? 2%??

me: madam, it depends on the sector in which the firm is  .. for example leather manufacturing firm pollutes water and air and thus should pay more than ….

C: ok, Do you know that warren buffet is in town in regards to Philanthropy. What do you think?

me: Madam, His view is that of Individualistic philanthropy like now those with lot of money we should think about giving it back. He met with lot Indian billionaires and some have pledged money. But i think he was not very happy with response.

C: Smiled and looked at m1

M1: madam, can i take it from here on..

C: Ok. Please.

M1: (Starts off with a long sentences..I could not comprehend..But in the last line he asked a question).. Private philanthropy is behind the research and development activities in the universities in USA most of the Top univs have grants ..  why do not we see the same in India?

C: Yes Most of the Yale Universities have large grants.

me : Took a pause and Sir, Probably the during the evolution of those universities, the philanthropists were owning large manufacturing corporations and they funded R&D in the universities and slowly it developed into a philanthropy. In india our economy is driven by services and manufacturing sector which depends on technology imported and so we have not seen such a relationship. But the trend seems to be changing now..

M1: Ok, There is an Act of Government which was behind such development in US and we had a similar Act and we repealed it at a later stage? Do you know What it is?

me: I Beg your pardon sir.. [Not sure what Act means.. is it parliament act or activity of government]

M1: I am referring to Act of Government.

me : I am not aware of it sir.

M1 : Goes on to say, Estate duties were 60% in america on inheritance so the rich preferred to donate than pass money to government… Everybody listens attentively including Chairman.. M1 is impressed with his answer and looks at me.

me: Thank you sir.

M1 :  Ok.. Recently one country head visited India and he said that you have software and we have hardware together we can rule the world. Do you know who he is?

me: Sir, As far as i am aware of it was said by South korean president on Republic day visit and it was also the President of China.

M1: Correct, It is President of China. We had technical supremacy in 1960s in Hardware but we lost it. Can you tell us why?

me: Sir, It was because of our economic policies sir. We pursued import substitution and eventually got isolated from the technological developments.

M1: How did others move forward then?

me:  Others realised by 1970s that they need to change and did so by importing technology or reverse engineering.

M1: Do you think that our leaders lacked vision?

me : No sir, But by that time this became an ideological issue and socialism was considered holy. So they were gradually started bringing in changes which led to structural reforms at a later date.

M1: so is it only an issue related to IT sector?

me : Sir, It was the result of broader policies out of which IT sector was a specific case. M1 looked pleased and looked at M2.

M2: What do you know about Pakistani economy?

me : Pause.. Sir, It is largely an agrarian economy with few landlords holding huge amounts of land and a small middle class and large number of labourers who are poor. M1 Interrupts..

M1: Pakistan is falling apart what should we be doing? …

me: Pause.. Sir, we want  strong neighbours and we should do everything to keep our neighbours stable.

C: You mean directly or help the government?

me: Help the government madam.

M1: In the economic context our neighbours are benefiting from our growth why not pakistan benefiting ?

C: You can see a case of Bangaldesh how they have benefited from our concessions.

me : Yes, Madam. But our relationship with Pakistan little more complicated. First we must let the tempers cool a bit.  If i remember correctly. two billion dollars worth trade happens between India and Pakistan via Singapore. We are doing by encouraging cross border trade and two days back government relaxed visa restrictions..

M1: (happy but wants to poke more.. goes back) But why don’t you want to split pakistan?

me : ( I do not want repeat what i have said earlier) It is our government policy to seek strong neighbours.

M1: Why do you say that? Indiragandhi has split Pakistan into bangladesh (and looks at me).

C: Smiling and looking at me..

me: Sir, We did not split pakistan and east pakistan people wanted support and we helped them.

M1: (smiles and says) thats a diplomatic answer and looks at me and (C)madam who is also smiling.

me: smilingly, I understand sir. But, Times have since changed.

M1: (Passes the buck to M2)

M2: What do you understand my Computer Vision Problems?

me: ( I was thinking about Vision 2020 types..but wanted to be sure.. so paused..and looked at him)

M2: (seems to have understood the dilemma) I mean health related problems you see…?

me: sir, There is an issue of losing eye sight and also backbone problems and also due to lack of exercise becoming fat and eventually diseases like Diabetics..so on..

M2: Ok, What do you know about  test tube baby?

me: It is an artificial method to produce zygote by taking a sperm and ovum and fertilizing it in a testtube and placing zygote back into mothers womb. Sir, Recently, Robert chambers got Noble prize for this amazing technology.

M2: Good.

C: (Shows hand towards M3)

M3: (Starts off with a very long sentence… ) I forgot what he said in the beginning when he came to end. But it was about technology and society impact

me : pause..

M3: ( seems to have understood it .. instantly.) Is telephone a boon or bane to society?

me: pause.. Technology perse is not a boon or bane it depends on how we use it. It has both advantages and disadvantages.

M3: (looks interested) Tell me about advantages?

me: First, Most important advantage is connectivity. Not just technical sir. but also people are more connected to others and are also more aware of information that affects their lives. It has a transforming experience on social spaces.

Economically, It has reduced wastage of time in travelling and also improve the productivity through easy sharing of information….(interrupts)

M3: What about adverse affects?

me: this connectivity also has some problems sir.. according to post modern theorists..this continuous connectivity with friends leads to social saturation and eventually leads to frustration and psychological effects.

M3: Ok, Suppose you are writing a letter to CM asking him to take action on adverse effects of mobile phones. What will you write?

me: Pause..

M3: Like banning mobiles when driving..

me: But Sir, I was thinking what can CM do about them?

M3: Smiles.. he will issue orders banning them..

me: Ok sir. Then people operating complex machinery should also be banned from using mobiles. It can lead to industrial accidents.. any activity which needs concentration should restrict mobile phones usage.

M3 : About school children..

me : yes sir, We should restrict use of mobile phones in schools…but i am not sure about the age limit i would prescribe.

M3: (looked satisfied) Ok.

M4: So, you are from IIT Guwahati.

me: Smiling, Yes sir.

M4: Do you know a famous literature from Assam?

me: Sir, Are you talking about Sri Sankaradeva?

M4: Nods head.

me: Sir, We had a satra near our IIT campus and we travelled to it and it was a great experience visiting it.

M4: (looked happy) Did you read his ramayana?

me: As far as i am aware of, He did not write Ramayana though he was a vaishnavite saint.

M4: smiles.. Ok.. tell me ..what is at the root of major problems affecting North east?

me: Geographical remoteness is the main problem and it led to under development. Becuase..pause.. as far as i have seen..north east indian societies have strong communal ties and have tribal loyalties.. especially in areas surrounding assam…every assertion of issue of identity becomes a secession issue also because north east’s sharing long borders with other countries..The whole issue  becomes a complicated issue and [stop]…

M1: Suddenly, says.. you said identity ..there is a famous book written by a famous indian with identity in the title..do you know?

me: Yes sir, Identity& Conflict by Amartyasen.

M4: (Listens attentively) Don’t you think that corruption is a big problem in NE?

me: ( immediately with higher pitch and emphasis and with lot of conviction) Yes sir, Corruption is a very big problem in North east.

M4: So, If you were to be posted to North east what will you do to fix corruption ?

me: Pause..turned my head and looked at madam and turned to him.

me : Sir, In general there is a gap between government and people.. this is particularly an issue according to me in NE. I would be a proactive administrator and put every effort to bridge the gap by leading with example and encouraging people to participate and supervise governance…

M4: Let us say that your subordinates are local assamese and they say that you are not from Assam what would be your response?

me: pause.. I would tell them patiently that yes..I am not an assamese by birth but by heart because i have its best interests in my…

M4: (Looks very happy..) says fine..

M4: You said correctly that assamese society is based on communal ties.. if they organise into communities?

me: Sir, As long as their communities are not a threat to integrity of nation and does not give rise to conflict. I have no problems with it.

M1: Let me start of a new discussion.. Do you think that by fixing corruption can we remove poverty in india?

me: Looked at him and said.. sir, Corruption is a problem of human nature and though we limit it poverty is also a relative phenomena.. we cannot eliminate it.. What we should be more worried about is is the poverty happy poverty or angry poverty.

M3: Good. He is taking discussion to a new level.

C: ( looks pleased and smiling) What is happy poverty?

me: Madam, My grandfather is an example of happy poverty. He was poor but he was happy and wanted to lead a simple life.

C: Good. Your hobby is mentoring.. tell us about it?

me: Pause.. madam.. can i request for two minutes to set the context?

C: Looks at watch which is above my head and behind me and says ..take one minute..

me: Thanks madam..pause.. After my tenth standard I had no guidance and faced confusion about what to do next.. in general also and had to learn by making mistakes….

C:(interrupts) yes, thats a good thing and so you want to mentor others.whom do you mentor..

me: Yes mam. Most of the times they are people whom i met via friends and their younger brothers and sometimes people whom i met in trians also..

C: (interrupts) So is it on adhoc basis or you regularly stay in touch with them via phone calls and so on..

me:Yes mam.. I regularly interact wiith them.

C: Tell me about your strengths as a mentor?

me: Takes a long pause and answers with a hesitation.. I learn from mistakes.

C: It is a good thing to learn from mistakes… seems she is hell bent on listening till the end.

me: Madam, Most of the times when mentees come they are perplexed and want some instructions and I give them and this helps them in feeling that they are in control and later they open up and I listen to their problems and advice them accordingly. I also have a large network of friends across various disciplines and connect them to mentees…

C: hmm.. good. (Cunning smile now.. ) What are your weaknesses?

me:  Pause ….( She asked with her eyes..answer it ..:) )

me: Madam, I have recently started reading Patanjali’s Yoga sutras and have understood that my personality is a combination of Rajasic and Sattvic nature…

C: ( Quickly asks..) Sattvic means weakness isn’t it?

me: No madam..Sattvic means right amount of action with right efforts..

C: Ok.. tell me about your weaknesses.

me: Madam.. I have all the weaknesses that come with Rajasic…like passion, aggression.. but, now that I know them I am trying to take care of them.

C: Smilingly.. Thank you Saikrishna.. You can leave now.

me: (gets up.. thanks madam.. walk confidently out.. )

 

My Civil Services Interview- CSE 2010

April 12, 2011 by Gokul 20 Comments

My interview was scheduled for the afternoon session on the 4 th of April 2011. After the document verification, by around 14.15 hrs, we were told that we will be interviewed by the board chaired by the UPSC member I.M.G. Khan. I was the last candidate in the list.

I entered the interview room by around 16.50 hrs. This is the transcript of the interview:

Me: May I come in, Sir?

The chairman asked me to come in. The room and the table were quite small. So I had a hard time distinguishing the chairman from the five members.

I got in wishing the chairman, lady member and the other members Good afternoon. But before I could finish the niceties, chairman was asking me to sit down. He seemed very cordial and the mood in the board was surprisingly fresh even at the end of the day. I sat down saying ‘Thank you’

Chairman: So you are Gokul?

Me: Yes sir, Gokul G.R

Ch: I will call you Gokul. Will that be fine? (smiling)

Me: Yes sir that will be fine. ( me too smiling)

Ch: Gokul, you have taken Physics as an optional. Are you going against the trend as we see a lot of engineers and science graduates taking non-science optional?

Me: Sir, physics is a subject that I have been studying form my school days. It is the most familiar subject for me and I like it. I wanted to take a subject that I would enjoy studying.

Ch (going through my bio-data): So you passed out from NITC with first class with distinction. Some chap came to a place near Calicut some time back no? Who was he?

I was confused and thought for a fraction of a second when I knew he was talking about Vasco Da Gama…

Me: Vasco Da Gama sir. It was in 1498. He landed at a place called Kappad. It is quite near to my college.

Ch: The beach has a memorial saying this is where he landed. Have you seen that?

Me: I have been to the beach twice. It is a rocky beach. But I don’t remember seeing the monument.

Ch: It’s a small monument which says ‘this is the spot where….’ (the other members nod at this)

Me: sorry sir. I don’t remember seeing the monument.

Ch: Why did he have to find a route through the sea?

Me: I don’t exactly remember the details but the land route was blocked by some reason.

Ch: No No that’s not possible. They could have found some other route.

Me: Sea route is cheaper and it also facilitates large scale trade.

Ch: Yes. Besides don’t you think it is safer? Taking the land route they would have to come through hostile territories and through bandits and hooligans. But again they face pirates in the sea route.

Me: Yes sir.

Ch: Why did the Europeans land in Kerala?

Me: They were looking for trade in spices, especially pepper.

Ch: Is spices still an important component of your state’s economy?

Me: Yes sir. Spices are still a major component of our exports.

Ch: Why is that Kerala has not been able to diversify from traditional agricultural commodities? Why is Industrial growth not strong in Kerala?

Me: There is a general lethargy within the government and people about inviting capital and setting up an investor friendly climate. We also have a very strong trade unionist culture. It definitely has positives for the society. The wage rates and working conditions are one of the best in India. But various elements have misused it and used it for personal ends at the expense of industrial growth. It was a mindset that was set in the 1970s and 1980s that is still preventing investors from investing in Kerala. But we are definitely changing. We just commissioned the vallarpadam project and signed the agreement for the Smart city project.

Ch: So you think that the situation will change? That the future is bright?

Me: The change is already happening. It has already started sir (smiling).

Ch: Tell me about this smart city.

Me: It is a PPP between the Kerala Govt. and Dubai’s Tecom to set up a Technology park which will provide the necessary infrastructure for software and electronics firms to set up office.

Ch: Where exactly is it?

Me: At Cochin. Kakanad to be exact.

The chairman nodded at the first member. Having taken Physics as an optional, his questions were only on the safety of nuclear power and nuclear reactors.

M1: In the context of the Japanese disaster, do you think we should continue our expansion plans for nuclear energy or should we stop it? How safe is nuclear energy?

Me: Nuclear energy is a dangerous technology and it can never be 100% safe. But nuclear energy is a vital energy source for the future. So stopping it is not an option. But we should put in place better safety and security systems. Even in the Japanese case, the reactors withstood the 8.9 magnitude earthquake and the tsunami and the reactor stopped working also. But it was the failure of the cooling system due to the damage to the electric grid that led to the current crisis.

M1: So what all should be done?

Me: We already have better safety systems. Our reactors are PHWRs as opposed to the BWRs of Japan which are inherently safer. Besides, the newer reactors have a Passive heat removal system by which air can be used for cooling in the event of failure of active cooling systems. New reactors will also have Hydrogen capture systems to prevent the kind of explosions that occurred at Fukushima.

M1: But still you think it won’t be 100% safe?

Me: Achieving a 100% safety line would be impossible but we should put in place mechanisms and safety systems to take the safety level as near to 100% as possible. Besides the safety guidelines should be placed under an independent regulatory body outside DAE.

M1: Very recently the former chairman of the AEC said that India should not import foreign reactors. Even he is not so sure about the safety of the rectors.

Me: The foreign reactors especially Areva’a EPR 1600 has untested safety features and has been rejected by a number of nations. Also, foreign reactors will have different safety systems and we will have to be experts in each of these. We will also have to depend on foreign know-how to learn their safety features also. But our reactors have been completely designed by us. So we have a better understanding of their dynamics and can better perfect the safety systems for them. Even the former chairman has supported the use of indigenous reactors.

M1: The proposed reactor at Jaitapur is coming up in a seismically active zone. What all measures need to be taken to prevent damage due to earthquakes?

Me: Building standards need to be strictly applied. Earthquake-resistant technology need to be incorporated which building. The effect of this was seen in the recent earthquake in Japan. The 8.9 magnitude quake, which is one of the largest ever killed only 20,000 people while the 7 point magnitude quake in Haiti last year killed more than 2 lakh people.

M1: You said about smart city? What all are the criterion for selecting a place for setting up a project like this?

Me: Connectivity to major city centres, road and rail connectivity, presence of good colleges in the vicinity.

The chairman interrupted asking me whether human element is also a factor that is considered.

Me: Yes sir. Availability of prospective employees is a major factor. If a Keralite is given a choice between a job in Smart city and in Bangalore, he will choose smart city even if the salary is a bit less. Given that about 50,000 engineers pass out from Kerala every year, this will give a competitive edge for the recruiters.

The turn was passed to the second member, a lady member. Her questions were about social issues.

M2 (looking at the summary sheet): You were selected as the ‘Young Scientist’ at the National Children’s Science Congress and you were second in the Regional Mathematical Olympiad. Why have you chosen civil services after coming from a science background like this?

Me: The project that we did for the Science congress has in fact played a very important role in me choosing civil services as a career. It was a social project. It was about the nutritional status of the people in a particular rural area in my district. The project gave me a firsthand exposure to the problems in the rural areas and about the various government departments working on these issues. The results of the project painted a very grim picture about the nutritional status of the people with respect to protein and vitamin deficiency. Besides, my aptitude is in an administrative job. Civil services will offer me the variety and challenges that no other job can give. I chose engineering because of my interest in science and to keep my options open. But civil services have been my dream throughout. It was always there in the back of my mind. That was why I started my preparation at the end of my third year itself.

M2: Suppose you are posted as an SDM in your state. What will you do to improve the nutritional level of the people? Are you aware of any schemes in that regard?

Me: ICDS, PDS, NRHM etc are the schemes for improving the nutritional and health levels of the people. Most of these projects suffer from poor implementation and leakages. For e.g., in

ICDS, the anganawadi workers are ill-paid and their responsibilities are quite heavy.  This has led to a lack of morale among them. I will concentrate on proper implementation of such schemes.

M2: But as an SDM you cannot make policy decisions. You can’t give them more salary. What will you do in that context?

Me: I will look for implementation of the schemes with support from the local bodies and community organisations. Involving of Panchayats can also create the political pressure for change.

M2: Kerala is called ‘God’s own country’. In what context is that name used.

Me: It is essentially a tagline coined by the tourism department for promoting tourism in Kerala. But otherwise also, Kerala can be called God’s own country (smiling).

Everyone laughed at this and the chairman interrupted asking me ‘Why is that Gokul?’

Me: The climate is good throughout the year,  people are well educated and friendly, presence of some of the most ecologically diverse areas, greenery all around……

With this, the Third member took charge. He was jovial throughout.

M3: You have taken public administration as an optional. Do you think decentralization through Panchayati raj is good?

Me: Definitely sir.

M3: Then why is it that in spite of being inserted in the constitution, it is not properly implemented in many places?

Me: Although they have been inserted in the constitution by the 73rd and 74th amendment, it is still the prerogative of the state governments to delegate powers to these bodies. In the case of Kerala, most of the powers in the 11th and 12th schedule have been delegated. Besides, 25% of the plan expenditure in budget is passed to the local bodies.

M3: So what should be done in the other states?

Me: People should be politically motivated and should demand more powers. Education can play a very important role in this.

The member said ‘Oh, you Keralite have 100% literacy’ and laughed. Everyone joined with him. I smiled and said 94% according to the provisional census figures

M3: Tourism is affecting our culture. Should we stop tourism due to that?

Me: No sir. We should not close ourselves to anyone. The tour operators act as the interface between the tourists and our people. They should be given training and orientation to properly orient foreign tourists before they land in India. The foreign tourists should be given a basic idea about the culture and society into which they are stepping in.

M3: But shouldn’t masses be educated for this to be effective. (He turned to other members and joked ‘our sanskrithi will become apasanskrithi by then)

Me: A well educated society is definitely good for developing a service industry like tourism. That should be our long term goal. But in the short term, educating the operators will help us develop tourism sustainably.

M3: A DM was recently kidnapped by the Maoists. In such a dangerous environment, do you still want to be an IAS officer?

Me: I heard about Mr. Vineel Krishna for the first time after the incident. All the reports in the newspapers were very positive about his work as a DM. In fact, he was kidnapped when he went to check a development work in a remote area without any protection. The people of his district rallied behind him. So if you are upright and do your work, you will have the support of the people and will be perfectly safe.

M3: So you think if he is honest and upright, nothing bad will happen?

Me: Yes sir.

The turn was passed to the fourth member.

M4: Did you write CAT, GRE or GATE in between?

Me: No sir. I was preparing through my final year and gave the exam right after my final exams.

M4: So you were focused. Tell me the advantages and disadvantages of Mobile communication. Advantages first: Economic advantages:

Me: Better connectivity, ability to make fast economic decisions, buying and selling goods using mobiles, advertising.

M4: Social

Me: People and families are always connected. You can call everyone at any distance at very low rates at any time.

M4: Political

Me: Campaigning, Communicating political ideas and schemes…

M4: Any disadvantages?

When I thought for a while, he said ‘it’s Ok, if you can’t think of any’.

M4: What are the uses of space technology for people?

Me: It has revolutionized communication. Weather satellites like Metsat help us in better prediction. Remote sensing satellites help us in planning. We have recently put in orbit Oceansat which observes the ocean. The information gathered by it is beneficial for the fishermen.

M4: Cyber security is a major issue now. What do you know about it and what is being done by the Indian government?

Me: It is a very dynamic area. It is a constant battle between a large number of hackers and security establishments. We need to keep ourselves updated always. DRDO is developing an operating system for use in govt. systems. The operating systems that we use now are available throughout the world and hence are more prone to hacking. We have set up cyber cells in the major police stations. The CERT-In is the body that is responsible for cyber security at the national level.

M4: Define ethics.

Me: The set of standards that we are supposed to follow in a particular realm.

M4: Can you point out some of those that you are supposed to follow. Was there any committee that made recommendations about ethics?

Me: It was a committee that was appointed in the U.K (couldn’t remember the name of Nolan committee) that gave detailed guidelines regarding ethics in public life.

M4: No Indian committees?

Me: A number of committees to look into corruption have also given similar recommendations.

M4: Can you list out a few of those standards?

Me: Honesty, integrity, leadership by example…

M4: Those are general things. Don’t you have any set of professional ethics as an engineer? Is there any Body that sets such standards?

Me: IEEE sets the standards for us. But I am not aware of any code of ethics.

M4: No Indian bodies? IETE?

Me: Sir, do you mean ISTE?

M4: No, IETE. Ok, tell me the ethics that you are supposed to follow as a communications engineer.

Me: Respect for IPRs, honesty…

M4: Ok.

The chairman took over. The interview was in its last phase.

Ch: Very recently a Bulgarian group was arrested in Delhi for robbery. What does this incident mean for India? Have we become a soft state that people from faraway places are coming for robbery?

Me: It may be a random, off the cuff incident.

Ch: No no. It was a well organized group with a lot of members.

Me: A number of foreign groups are active in a number of nations like the Italian Mafia in USA. As the economy improves…

Ch (interrupting): So you think it is a good thing!!!( and laughed…the members also joined him)

Ch: So Gokul, what will you do after getting out. Tell me the first thing that you will do on exiting this room.

Me:  Sir…..I will be removing my tie (It was a spontaneous reply)

Everyone burst into laughter at this and the chairman asked me whether candidates think they won’t be selected if they came in half sleeves without tie (Every male member in the room wore half sleeves without tie). I started with the usual answer, ‘Sir, this is one of the most important occasions for us. We respect the occasion’ when the chairman joked once again. Then I said, “Sir, frankly candidates tend to be a bit conservative in this regard”

Ch: Ok. Your interview is over. It has been nice talking to you. Thank you.

I thanked the chairman, the lady member and other members and left the room. It was 17.20 by then. The interview went for around 30-35 minutes.

The session felt more like a candid discussion rather than a strict interview. Hoping for the best!!

My interview by Vijay Singh29th April 30, 2011 (Last day afternoon session, I was 2nd candidate)Vijay Singh Sir’s Chamber2.47 to 2.59 (12 mins) (Vijay Singh was in jolly mood and everything was going perfectly, until he said, thank you very much in just 12 mins)

Following points of my bio data were must have considered before framing questions..(I work in Mumbai Customs for last three years as preventive officer. Before that I have worked in Staff Selection Commission for three years. Hobbies included Watching English War Movies, Writing Letters to the Editors of Dailies and Social Networking. I belong to a village in Pune District in Maharashtra. Optionals were Political Science and Geography. This was second but last attempt, due to age factor)

(While on sitting on the chair outside, I was remembering my achievements, including my last years interview when K K Paul had given me 186. This gave me some energy, First girl, whose interview was going on was in IRS, that disturbed me. Benchmarks are always biased)

Peon opened the door. I thanked him, knocked the door, and..

Me: May I come in, Sir?Chairman: Yes, yes. Come in.

Me: (Entered, reached up to chair, and..) Good afternoon, Sir.Chairman: Good afternoon.

M1(Immediate right of Chairman): Have a seat.Me: Thank you, sir. And good afternoon.M1: Good afternoon.

Me: (While taking seat..) Good afternoon, ma’am,(Immediate left to the Chairman). Good afternoon sir (while looking at my right) Good afternoon sir (while looking at my left). (All replied with broad smiles. All looked in jolly mood)

Chairman: Vinod, you are working in Mumbai Customs. But the general perception of Customs Department is not that good. In fact it is very bad. It is said that there is nexus between officials and smugglers. What is your opinion about it?Me: It was true before 1991, when there were various rules and regulations..

Chairman: What happened in 1991?Me: We started to remove restrictions, the process is still going on…

May 3 (6 days ago)

Anonymous Chairman: No no, what exactly happened?Me: Sir, we entered in the era of liberalization..

Chairman: You are Preventive Officer. What do you prevent?Me: Sir, Smuggling.

Chairman: Smuggling of what, in your opinion, should attract the severest penalty?Me: Smuggling of human beings, human trafficking should attract the severest penalty. Secondly, narcotics.

Chairman: Why did this human trafficking happen? What is the purpose?Me: In western countries..

Chairman: Ok, Ok. You know it has different reasons. In developed countries it happens for commercial reasons. What can be the reasons for human trafficking in India?Me: It can be used for terrorist purposes..

Chairman: And how does you prevent smuggling? I mean, any intelligence network?Me: There are like DRI and AIU. There are various methods to prevent it. Suppose there is Container Scanning Division where…

Chairman: We have Container Scanning facility?Me: Yes, there is pilot project..

Chairman: Yes, yes, in JNPT..Me: Yes..

Chairman: What is your post? Where does it come in the hierarchy?Me: Its Group B Non-Gazetted..

Chairman: Ok. (while signaling towards the M2, sitting to my immediate left)M2: You have taken this International Relations and Political Science as your optional paper. Can you tell me will Mr Obama’s outsourcing policies affect Indian companies?Me: I don’t think it will affect Indian companies. American capitalism is highly motivated by profit motives. Their lobby is strong. I don’t think they will compromise their profits. They are earning heavy

profits by outsourcing business to big Indian companies.

M2: But visa restrictions are being increased..Chairman: Yes, recently there was increase in visa fees.Me: Yes, that will affect business of big IT companies like TCS, Infosys etc. But that will be short term effect.

May 3 (6 days ago)

Anonymous M2: You have done this Diploma in Cyber Law. How you will increase the cyber security?Me: At personal level I’ll suggest awareness. At government level, or to protect the websites of Govt, there are some technical things, like creating firewalls..but I’m not well aware with technical things. But government has taken some initiatives like CERT i e Computer Emergency Response Team.

M2: I’m done (while signaling towards M1)M1: What is cyber laws? Is India’s cyber law enough strong to deal with resurge in cyber crimes?Me: Cyber laws in India means Information Technology Act 2000 and amendments in it. There are some more amendments proposed.

M1: What are those proposed amendments? (Chairman looked the most attentive..)Me: Sir, I won’t be able to discuss details.

M1: Come on, Social Networking is your hobby. Any amendments related with it?Me: Sir, I don’t have details. (He signals that he has done, M3 takes over).

M3: Social Networking means actual social networking or..Me: For me it is only on social networking websites.

M3: Have you seen Transporter?Me: I’ve not seen it but I’ve read about it. It is about human trafficking.

M3: Who was this Fergusson? You have studied in Fergusson Collage..Me: Sir, James Fergusson was the Governor of Bombay Province who helped financially and in the establishment of the Fergusson Collage and also in initial years..

M3: You are from this Shi..rsa..t..Me: That’s my village..Shirsatwadi..in Pune district..

M3: Where it is exactly? I mean how far from Pune?Me: 125 km..the nearest town is Baramati..

M3: What are important crops?Me: Sugarcane. Wheat in winter.

M3: Do you have water for these crops?Me: Yes. Geographical condition is that, canal irrigation is possible. We get water from Nira Left Canal..

Chairman: Which English war movie fascinated you the most?Me: Sir, I liked Troy, Gladiator, 300. (He waits for more) But most of the movies I’ve seen are Second World War movies.

May 3 (6 days ago)

Anonymous Chairman: Which are those?Me: I liked Enemy at the Gates, Saving Private Ryan, Pearl Harbour..

Chairman: Have you seen Letters from Iwo Jima?Me: Yes, sir. I’ve seen it.

Chairman: So, what you think, has the director been successful in conveying the message he wanted to convey?Me: I felt very sad, the condition in which the Japanese fought and in the end their Harakiri..i think the message was well conveyed.

Chairman: What is the difference between Hollywood and Bollywood war movies?Me: Technically Hollywood movies are very sound. If I’ve to choose one, I’ll choose Hollywood war movies. But our movies also do business because we are emotionally attached with those wars..

Chairman: Do the heroines and so much songs are required? The movies made on 1948, 1965 and Kargil war has so much songs..Me: Bollywood movies have a typical formula. We follow that in war movies also. (Chairman commented that it is totally untoward for in the war movies and signaled to M4, ma’am seating to his immediate left)

M4: You have worked in Staff Selection Commission for three years. And now you have been working in Mumbai Customs, for almost three years. What difference you see? How you will compare these two organizations?Me: Staff Selection Commission was a well managed organization as compared with Mumbai Customs. Because that was a small organization, with less than 1000 employees. Mumbai Customs is a big organization. Secondly, the training which I’d received in SSC was very good. I’ve not received any training in Customs..

Chairman: They must be thinking that you will receive it on the field…Me: That’s good idea. But..

M4: You have written writing letters to editors as your hobby? What was your latest letter?Me: That was online comment on PMO’s secret talks with Gen Kayani..

May 3 (6 days ago)

Anonymous Chairman: what was your viewpoint?Me: I had opposed the idea. It was like giving legitimacy to ISI and Pakistani army. Instead, my view was that, we should try to strengthen Pakistani civil society and Pakistani Political Leadership. These talks may be fruitful in the near term, but not in the long term interest of India.

M4: Was it published?Me: As I said it was a online comment on a news item and the very next day PMO clarified that its not a truth…

Chairman: Yes, yes. They clarified.M4: How many letters have been published?Me: Three in Indian Express and four in Loksatta, a marathi daily.

M4: You have won these essay prizes in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. What were the subjects? Do you remember?Me: Yes, as that is one of the big achievements. The latest one was ‘Ekkisvi Sadi Ka Bharat’ (India in the 21st Century) as it was Hindi Essay competition conducted by Staff Selection Commission during Hindi Fortnight.

M4: Do you remember what was the theme of your essay?Me: Yes. I had started how we started at the independence and how we have progressed since then.

The main theme was how we are converting ourselves from a Soft State into a Real State. There are some issues but we are sorting it out and India will be one of the superpowers in the 21st century..

M3: Do you remember, recently Ratan Tata made a statement where he called India a Banana Republic? How you can say then that we are turning ourselves in a Real State?Me: Sir, I remember Ratan Tata used terms like Banana Republic and Crony Capitalism to describe India, but he himself has intrigued in many controversies of late..Chairman: Yes, yes. There are enquiry going on against him.Me: And as I said, there are some issues but we are sorting it out..

Chairman: (To my astonishment) Ok, thank you. You may go now.Me: (Surprised expression) Its over..Chairman: (Smiled)…Me: Thank you sir, thanks to all of you and have a nice day.

kk pauls interview a grilling experience

INTERVIEW WITH  DR KK PAUL

31st march 2011, I was the fourth candidate to be interviewed in after noon session.

Interview started at 3 45 pm.

As soon as I entered even without looking at me kkp sir told to sit .i was  confused as I have not yet greeted them members .however  I wished  members and took my seat.

Chairmen started (kkp sir) dr bhuvnesh whats your name

Me                   sir  dr bhuvnesh pratap singh

Kkp sir            your roll no

Me                   48756

Kkp sir             your date of birth

Me                   22/7/1983( by now I was thinking what he is up to,,

            taking interview or  interrogating me)

kkp sir            dr you have worked in ONGC FOR 1 YEAR why did you left it

me                    sir ,I was on contract there . which got over

kkp sir              SO,     you left ONGC or they left you ??or  you left it for preparing

me                    sir ,as contract period was over so I deciced to leave   and

                         I had to prepare    also..

Kkp sir             your hobbies are teaching ,writing hindi poems,introspection(he read

                         this in one go).you write what sort of poems

me                     sir, for my friends..

kkp sir             for friends or about friends??you tease your friends in your poems ???

me                     sir . I write for my friends..i try to incorporate my emotions in poems

kkp                  and this introspection.. it is same as diary writing

me                    yes sir,, I do write diary also . but since I do introspection often so

                         I have  written it as my hobby,   

Kkp                what you do

Me                   sir I try to evaluate my behaviour . I think about how I think,,

                         I review my decisions,, also it sets me right when ever I go wrong..

                          it  guides my emotion to do better

kkp                  you are emotional person ???

me                    yes sir

kkp                   an emotional person cannot be practical person ..and

                         emotional person cannot be practical also.. we don’t need such people

me                   sir, shall I take an example

kkp                   ok

me                     sir, since I am a doctor  and when ever my patient comes to me

                         I show my emotion and my empathy towards him to accommodate

                        him .. but while prescribing the drugs I am the most practical person

                           .i prescribe based on scientific tenets..so  I think an emotional person

                         can be practical too..

kkp                    till now his face was wearing mask.. he didn’t showed any

                     facial  expression . and pointed fingers towards 1st member to ask question

member 1(m1) he was sitting left to him

m1              so dr you are from agra

me               yes sir.

m1               dr I call AGRA  as a GUTTER ..despite it being tourist place it is very dirty

me              sir , I beg to defer with you here,,sir you are talking about pre 2008

                    status now agra has changed a lot

m1               really

me               yes sir

m1               ok tell me what all we can do to tackle such problems in big metropolis

me                sir we need to educate people.. we should strengthen

                    municipality corp,,allow  them to come up with bonds to

                     ensure their    financial instability

m1               and in citis

me                sir, I am staying in delhi from past 1 yr and I saw  that MCD sends

                     their autos and truck to clean the areas . so I think we can copy this plan

                    in other cities like agra also

m1               who is responsible for all this mess

me               sir , we all

m1               how we

me               sir , we are the one who throw our garbage in roads and there

                      is implementation failure also

m1               government is coming up with courses like BRMS because there is

                   scarcity  of doctor . and you people instead of working in rural area come

                   and join services..why are you shifting from your field

me             sir, an MBBS is just a beginning or a step in medical field.. and todays is era of multispecialisation(inter disciplaniry) I think we can help more.. and I being doctor I am more well versed with fellow doctors  problems and I think I can tackle that through civil services..sir recently there was a news that in maharastra only 40 % students of 1st year reach 2nd yr and I think I understand this problem better

kkp          interrupted the m1 and asked m2 (lady member) to ask

m2            dr what are your views about traditional medicine , should we discard it

me            mam.. ayurveda has treated our people from past 2000 yr. and even till today we all rely on ayurveda .traditional medicines  is deep rooted in us take for example we all eat chawanprash which is an ayurved prep. Mam what I believe that ayurved in in its lowest ebb now and allopathic medicine in its peak.. so there is need for more research in this field

m2               but we do not have money

me               true mam.. but govt is working in this front we have AYUSH dept .we have homeopathy ,ayurved college etc

m2                dr do you know about  HDI

Me               yes mam

M2              who measures health component on HDI

Me                  and then I kept quiet for some time and then she prompted that is national family health survey..

M2                 do you know what is our ranking in this

Me                  sorry mam I don’t know.. but I know we are behind srilanka n Bhutan in this

M2                  yes.. but why so

Me                  mam . may be population pressure

Kkp                 interrupted mam and told member 3 to ask . m3 was sitting right to me mam wanted to ask more question but she stopped  and I gave a smile to her.kkp sir was listening when I was telling chawanprash stuff.how ever till now kkp sir and other members did not gave any expression

M3                 dr you told you are emotional,, what is difference between emotional person and impulsive and who is better

Me                sir, impulsive person takes decision instantaneously while emotional thinks and  i believe emotional is better than impulsive

M3               asked one more ques relating to emotion which I have never heard, so I stated that I don’t know sir

M3              dr do you take interest in foreign afFairs

Me               yes sir , I do    

M3              who is indias best friend

Me                sir, in long term relations I  it is Russia and recently it is USA

M3             WHY  USA  needs us,big brother attitude of USA

Me               sir for balance of power with china, its strategic interest, its commercial interest.we are largest consumer of US goods blah..blah…

M3               what do you think that doctors are going to USA and not serving nation

Me              sir, they do help us gain dollar which we require the most

M3               but dollar is no more an international currency

Me             true sir, but we import oil which is need of hour and their payment has to

                      be done in dollar terms so dollar is valuable for us

M3              ok , do you know how much is foreign exchange reserve now

Me               I was not sure  and wanted to play safe  so I told sir I think its more than 250 mn dollars

M3           ok quiet above this value..he points toward member 4

M4              dr  as you rightly pointed out that MBBS is just beginning ,but don’t you think that doctors are not at all going to rural area what about  health of rural people

Me             sir I beg to defer with you here,, (he nodded) sir infact my friends are working in rural area, my seniors are also working in rural area also sir when I was student during my community medicine postings I have seen doctors working in rural area.. sir however I do agree that there is problem of turn over

M4           dr you are from agra or karnataka

Me            sir agra

M4            but you have spent your most of time in Karnataka

Me             yes sir, but I was sent there

M4            sent ???

Me             yes sir , since I had my schooling in military school so I was sent there ,but sir later I started liking that place and infact I learned kannada also and  later on did  MBBS from there

 M4          what was your choice for military school

Me             sir , I don’t remember( that form was filled when I was in 5th and what I remember my father had filled that form)

M4             you did MBBS from bijapur. Bijapur is famous for??

Me              after a pause sir   its golgumbaz

M4              nodding his head .. what it is

Me           sir mausoleum of adil sha

M4             but why it is famous for

Me             second largest dome of world.sir also one sound resonates for 7 time

Kkp             interrupts here and looks toward me and says ok go your interview is over

You . can go now

 I wished them thank you and good day

When I came out it was 4 : 15 so my interview went for 30 minutes..

Dr paul kept on giving sarcastic look through out interview

My UPSC Civil Services 2010 Personality Test

Name:              ANAND MISHRARoll No.           0 4 9 6 4 8

Date:               11th April 2011 (After Noon)Time:              03:15 PM to 03:35 PM (20 Minutes)Board:             Prof. Purushottam AgarwalMedium:         English

There were Six Candidates (Table Number 19) interviewed by this board in the AN session; Five Boys, One Girl; Three English Medium (All Boys); Three Hindi Medium (One Girl + Two Boys); English Medium was interviewed first.

I was the Third person to be interviewed. I wore a white Shirt, dark bottle green trousers, a blue tie with small regular designs, a metal strap formal wrist watch, a black leather belt and a pair of laced black oxford shoes. I had an athletic hairstyle and a fit athletic body.

The Peon came in the waiting hall and asked me to accompany him. I followed.

The Friend just before me had completed his interview and was waiting outside the chamber of Prof. Purushottam Agarwal where the Interview was being conducted.

The buzzer rang and I was asked to enter.

My heart sank for a while but was soon assisted by a gush of pure fresh blood that brought in a strange mix of confidence and attitude. The peon stood by while keeping the door open for me.

I arrived at the gate. A straight look and I saw a well composed and elegant group of people in a brightly lit, well furnished, cozy room. They sat around a table placed about Twenty feet from the door. The Chairman [C] (Prof. Purushottam Agarwal) was sitting in the middle across the table. To his right (my left) was a gentleman (M1) and a lady (M4) beside this gentleman. To the left of the Chairman (my right) were two gentlemen (M2 and M3). Total Five persons were there to conduct the personality test.

So it was time to enter.

Me:      May I please come in Sir?C:         Yes.

(I walked in, straight and confident with a pleasant smile on my face)

Me:      Good Afternoon Sir (to the Chairman who was sitting just in front of me). He nodded.Then I greeted the lady and other members.

C:         Please sit down.Me:      Thank you Sir.(I took the seat. There were two chairs. They were big, black, well cushioned, revolving, wheeled chairs. I rested my elbows on the chair handles, kept my fingers clasped while rested my feet well on ground maintaining a gap between two legs. I kept my spine straight wile slightly lent forward towards the table. I kept a pleasant, humble but firm smile on my face. I maintained this posture without being stiff for almost the whole interview)

The Interview started somewhat suddenly. The Chairman seemed to be in a very serious and grim mood, the lady was also serious but pleasant, the other three male members had pleasant smiles on their faces and seemed to be closely observing me in all my details.

The Chairman [C] (Prof. Purushottam Agarwal) started the Interview.

C:         So, Anand, you are working as an Assistant Director under the Government of West Bengal?Me:      Yes Sir (with a humble but confident smile).C:         What do you do there?Me:      Sir, I am an Assistant Director in the Food & Supplies Department of Government of West

Bengal. I am Assistant Director, Vigilance there. I also look after the Public Grievance cell and I am also the SAPIO.

C:         What is SAPIO?Me:      Sir, it is State Assistant Public Information Officer under the Right to Information Act, 2005.C:         What do you think of the RTI Act?Me:      (After a brief pause of around 2 Seconds) Sir, This act brings Transparency in the system and

hence ensures Accountability.C:         Don’t you think that the RTI Act is being misused?Me:      Sir, almost all acts or laws are misused, but I don’t think that due to this reason we should

belittle the RTI Act. Moreover Sir, personally I am an ardent supporter of the RTI Act and try to help the RTI petitioners who come to me in whatever way I can.

C:         Ok. (Then he indicated towards the First member who was sitting just to his right….) You ask…!!

M1:      Ok Anand, so you are a student of Economics.Me:      Sir, actually I had Political Science as my major subject.C:         (He interrupted..) yes yes.. he is Political Science Honours.M1:      Ok, but you seem to have studied some economics in your college. Do you

remember somethimg..like…Me:      (I Gave a look expressing my discomfort in the area…still he continued…)M1:      Do you know about the law of Diminishing Returns…Me:      (Before I could arrange my thoughts and speak…he moved on)M1:      Ok. You are from St. Xavier’s College; do you know something about who was St. Xavier?Me:      No Sir, I am not able to recollect it now.M1:      Ok. Can you tell me something about the Presidential Election system in USA…tell me

something broadly. I don’t need the details..Me:      Sir, an electoral college is formed which then elects the President.

M1:      Yes, but is it direct or indirect…or (before I could respond).. ok do you remember who stood for the presidential election alongwith Barrack Obama?

Me:      (Thought a little) No Sir, I am not able to recollect the name.M1:      Ha ha..it was not even worth remembering.. (then he shared a comment with the Chairman and

both laughed aloud… I just smiled.)M1:      Ok, recently the Prime Minister of UK visited India… like he was…mmmmm..Me:      Sir, Mr. CameroonM1:      O’ yes, Cameroon. He commented upon something…do you remember as to what he said?Me:      (Not very surely) Sir, he gave a statement about the Kashmir issue.M1:      Yes did you follow as to what exactly was the comment…just broadly…Me:      No Sir. Sorry I could not follow that News.M1:      O’ yes may be because you had much work load and you did not get time.Me:      Sorry Sir, but I will not like to use this as an excuse for not knowing this. I should have known

this.M1:      Ok, tell me the basic difference between the Fundamental Rights and the Directive principles.

Tell me the very basic and primary difference. The basic one…Me:      Sir, the basic difference between the two is that the Fundamental Rights are Justiceable, i.e. a

person whose fundamental rights are infringed can get them enforced by moving to the court; whereas the Directive Principles are non-justiciable, i.e. one cannot move the court to get these enforced. These can be enforced only if they are made into a law by the parliament.

M1:      Ok, so do you remember any directive principle that was recently made into a fundamental right?

Me:      Yes Sir, it was the Right to Education.M1:      Don’t you think that such rules are made before a demand comes from the society? It means that

the society is not yet ready for such an act and thus these rules are not implemented properly and thus get violated.

Me:      Sir, in our country, I think that at times it is important to lead by legislation. It clarifies the goal before the Government and also creates public opinion infavour of such social goals.

M1:      Do you remember something of this sort done earlier where legislation preceded social demand?Me:      Yes Sir, for example the law to ban Sati.M1:      Yes, it was sometime in 1830s…no…Me:      (The exact date was not instantly coming in my mind and I just gave a slight nod suggesting that

yes it was around that time only.)M1:      But did the act helped in eradicating the problem of Sati.Me:      No sir, but this definitely effected in bringing down the numbers and created an awareness

against the Sati system.M1:      So, you think that the Right to Education may do something like this.Me:      Yes Sir.

C:         (He indicated to the Member sitting towards his Left and said him to ask)

(This member maintained a smile during the time he asked questions and also seemed to be receptive and appreciative of what I answered.)

M2:      Ok, So how many States and Union Territories are there in India?Me:      Sir, 28 States and 7 Union Territories.

M2:      Ok. Do you remember their Official Languages?Me:      Not all Sir, but definitely that of a few.M2:      English is the Official Language of which state?Me:      Sir, Goa.. (I was wrong then. But it was this which came to my mind... and i answered confidently. They did't

counter me and the interview carried on..) and Sir it is also used for official purposes in other states..

Chairman interrupted…

C:         Do you understand the meaning of Official Language?Me:      Yes Sir.C:         What is the official Language of Centre?Me:      Sir, it is Hindi.C:         Yes. And English is used as a secondary language.Me:      Yes Sir.C:         Ok. (Indicated the M2 to continue)

M2:      Have you heard about the Linguistic Reorganization of States?Me:      Yes Sir.M2:      When was it done?Me:      Sir, 1956.M2:      Yes, Good. So, which was the first state to be made and when and like what happened…

mmmm… how?Me:      Sir Andhra Pradesh was the first state to be formed in 1953 on linguistic basis after the agitation

led by one person called Puttu Srimalu.M2:      O’ you remember the name. Good.            Have you heard of the Telengana movement, like…. what do you say about that?Me:      Yes Sir, I have heard about the movement but it has nothing to do with linguistic issue. It is

mainly based on the principles of relative deprivation and inequality. The leaders of the Telengana movement claim that the resources of that region has been exploited for the development of the other parts of Andhra and thus this region has been left backward. They claim that if Telengana is made into a separate state they can use its resources to develop the region.

M2:      Some committee was instituted for inquiry into the  demands… no?Me:      Yes Sir, it was the Srikrishna Committee.M2:      So what were its suggestions?Me:      Sir, it gave some Six suggestions…which included proposals for dividing the state into two

while making Hyderabad into an Union Territory or Common state capital… and … sorry Sir I am just not able to recollect all the proposals.

M2:      Six proposals?Me:      Sir, yes, it was either Six or Three, I am not able to recollect it exactly.M2:      Ok

(The Chairman indicated the third Member to ask the questions)

M3:      Do you know what is Biodiversity? (He had a heavy south Indian-anglo accent and I could not make out what he asked)

Me:      Sorry Sir…M3:      He repeated the question more clearly.Me:      Yes Sir. I know.M3:      Can you tell me the reason for so much biodiversity in India. I mean why there are so many

species of flora and fauna found in India?Me:      (Thought a little) Sir, India is having lot much Geographical diversity and…M3:      (Interrupted) No, No.. I am asking about Biodiversity..Me:      Yes Sir, I was coming to it. As I said that there is so much Geographical diversity and thus so

much climatic diversity; and this leads to so much biodiversity in the form of various species of flora and fauna.

M3:      Yes, you are partially correct but what exactly… like (he gave a hint) what is the location of India…like where is it placed?

Me:      Sir, (I paused a bit) India is placed in southern Asia (and suddenly it clicked) in the tropical zone..

M3:      Yes, exactly. It is because of India’s location in the tropical zone that there is so much Biodiversity in India.

Me:      Yes Sir. Thank you.M3:      Have you heard about Hotspots?Me:      Yes Sir.M3:      How many are there? Can you name them?Me:      Sorry Sir, I don’t remember.M3:      They are few. You can count them on fingures.M3:      Ok, where are the Western Ghats? And what are they?Me:      Sir, they are a mountain range on the western side of Indian peninsula facing the Arabian Sea.M3:      They are from where to where?Me:      Sir, from Gujrat to Kerala.M3:      Yes, till Kanyakumari. Are they continuous or broken ranges?Me:      Sir, continuous.M3:      No, they are broken, having a gap of 30 Kms.Me:      Ok Sir, I didn’t know that. Thank you.M3:      Where are the Eastern Ghats?Me:      Sir they are on the eastern side of the Indian peninsula facing the Bay of Bengal.M3:      No, they are on the Himalayas, Eastern Himalayas.Me:      Sorry Sir, but what I know is that they are on the eastern peninsula facing the Bay of Bengal.M3:      No, they are on the Himalayas.Me:      (Disapprovingly I said) Sorry Sir.

M3:      He smiled.

C:         He looked at the Board members and said Ok Anand your Interview is over… then he suddenly looked at the Lady member and said… O..ho.. you have not asked na.. you ask ask…

I turned a bit towards the Lady member (M4) and gave her a smile. She also smiled.

M4:      Ok, so you said that you are associated with the vigilance section in your office. So what exactly is the procedure that you follow after you receive a complaint….like what do you do with the anonymous complaints…just file them or what?

Me:      Ma’am after we receive a complaint we get it enquired by a team from Headquarters. If the allegations are of very serious nature, we forward the case to the State Vigilance Commission…

M4:      (Interrupted) So, do you enquire into the anonymous complaints also.Me:      Yes Ma’am, if the nature of allegation is serious we get it Inquired, plus our present Director

insists that all cases must be enquired into.M4:      After that what do you do?Me:      Ma’am, if we find that allegations are proved then Departmental proceedings are initiated

against the defaulters and corrective measures are taken.M4:      Corrective measures are taken?Me:      Yes Ma’am, Corrective measures are taken.M4:      Fine, What is JPC and PAC?Me:      Ma’am, Joint Parliament Committee is JPC. It is an Ad Hoc committee set up to investigate into

some particular case. As of PAC, it is the Public Accounts Committee. It is a standing parliamentary committee renewed every year. It deliberates upon the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.

M4:      Ok, tell me something about the Parliament… very shortly in may be two or three sentences.Me:      Yes Sir…(mistake), sorry, ma’am….M4:      (Perhaps she got me wrong…she thought that I could not understand/hear the question properly

and she repeated it)Me:      Ma’am, it is the central legislative body comprising of the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and the

President.M4:      What is the duration of both the Houses?Me:      Ma’am, the Lok Sabha’s duration is Five years and the Rajya Sabha is a permanent body whose

members retire every two years… I mean every One Third of its members retire every two years.M4:      Ok. She indicated that she has completed

C:         Ok Anand, thank you. (He indicated that the Interview was over)Me:      Thank you Sir.

I rose up from the chair and said thank you to all its members starting from the lady. I turned around and walked out smartly. Though it was a self closing door, I pulled it slowly and closed it.

            I found the next candidate was waiting to enter the room. The peon waited for the buzzer that meant that discussion about the last candidate is over and the next candidate be sent in. It took some time. The peons said that the board was taking unusually longer time to discuss my interview.

            During the complete Interview, I maintained a pleasant and energetic bearing that came naturally to me. I was original, in and out.

My Conclusion:

            The questions asked were very easy and basic. There were no tricky questions. Board was cordial and encouraging. However, I could not answer a few question which I actually knew but somehow did not or could not reply. My other answers could have been more elaborate and bit

more organized. However, perhaps I was following the unsaid code of the board (which I could understand from their overall bearing and body language since the beginning) that… be brief, specific and to the point.

            My confidence level never dipped during the Interview and I had a uniform presence during the whole conversation.

My Interview Of ICS

interview lasted for 30-35 minutesmy subjectsGeographyChemistrypresently doing Ph D at IIT kharagpurState RajasthanDist Jaipur

I Was last to be interviewed (out of six) in forenoon session on 25th march in the Vijay singhs' Board

5 persons were there out of them 2 women in the board

they were discharging every person in 25 minutes on average

before I was called upon for the interview it was around 40 minutes ago the last person was called. I was little anxious that what is going on why they are taking so much time with that fellow. the person called me that it is my number. He asked me to drink water. scaring me. I was asked to wait outside the room there I show some empty plates were going out of their room

so they had their food and thats' why it took them 40-45 minutes to call me. I had a shy of relief that they will not eat my head.. food matters

the person who called me for interview from waiting room opened the door still I knocked the door and asked

May I come in sir?

yes come in (chairman replied)

I entered with good smile wished all first the two women and then chairman

Chairman asked me to be sited

but it was not so easy

before I could grab my seat

question started

Q:Ohh great! what is your height Mr. Devesh?

A:Sir, It is 6 feet 3 inches

You could have been a good pace bowler

Sir, I could Have but I have not tried

chairman again said ohh Please sit

I did.. since I was standing near the chair.. wished them again.. now started the rain of questions.

Q:So, you have completed your M Tech in 2008 what are you doing now?

A: Sir, Now I am doing Ph D in the Rubber Technology Center Of IIT kharagpur.

Q:For fun time pass or...?

A: No Sir, I am doing Ph D because it give good knowledge and experience and if the terms and conditions of civil service permits I Would be completing it in future. (here the chairman looked happy )

Q:So, Rubber technology. Do you know about Rubberised roads?

A: Yes sir I know about Rubberised roads.

Q:what is different with normal road?

A:Sir Rubberised roads are constructed by mixing scrap waste rubber with asphalt and using the same in road construction. These roads are more durable and give good traction and prevent skidding. These roads are more useful in the area where rainfall is more like in kerala, west bengal.

Q:we are doing this in Kerala and I am from that state.

A: Right sir, It is very good initiative.

Q: Does India have that potential of rubberising roads?

A: Yes sir we have the potential since we are the second largest consumer of rubber and a lot of waste is being generated every year, if we can utilize this waste rubber it is very good. (here the other person look sitting near to chairman looked happy and said that he is from kerala cadre)

Q:what is the status of roads and other infrastructure in Rajasthan?

A; Sir the length of roads is less then what is needed but the condition is good and reason is there that once a road is constructed it remain there because of lack of rain. More Infrastructure is needed for better connectivity.

Q: Who could be the good administrator. A academician or a sports person?

A: Madam,I think It could be either an acedmician or sports person because to be a good adminitrator depends on the aptitude of a person or how a person thinks.

Q: so you will not go with one

A: madam I cann't go with.

(The Chairman came in my side and said right it depends on the aptitude of a person.)

Q:I see you have completed your schooling from Jhunjhunun District rural area

A: Right Sir.

Q:what problem did you find there in water resource?

A: Sir water is really scare there. People face problem of water for drinking, Irrigation and industrialization. it could be seen by the fact that due to drought the state GDP growth is lowest in all state with just 3.4 per cent.

Q:how will you solve that?

A:Sir, I shall try to alive bawadi, Johad, talab in the area which served the purpose in past, along with that I shall try to recharge the ground water by making check dams and with the latest development in technology in agriculture like drought resistance crop.

Q:What is Important for a farmer.. 1 credit 2 seeds 3 water

A: madam, It is credit. (She didn't ask why)

Q: what GOI have done for credit

A: madam. GOI have increase the amount of credit to be distributed in farmers from 3lakh 75 thousand crore to 4 lakh 75 thousands crore this fiscal.

Q:What is your view about the bureaucracy is it honest or dishonest?

A: (I took little time here. it was i tricky question) madam, I met some officials for my work and nowhere i encountered an demand for bribe. So I cann't say that they are dishonest

Q:What is general perception in your village?

A: Sir, the general perception is that many officers are dishonest. but sir one may or may not be dishonest but still the perception could be that the officer is dishonest because the officers are not easily approachable if an aam adami want to meet a DM of his district it is not easy and in the process to get he thing done he could be asked for bribe by babus and other people and the perception becomes that the officer is dishonest. So, Officer must have direct contact with public.

Q: do you think a office at the helm can make great changes in the working of system?

A: yes sir I think that an officer at the helm can certainly make great changes in his area of influence.

Q:If you become DM of J&K what will be your three piorities.. one two and three

A; madam first I shall try to control insurgency with the help of local government and community. second I shall also try to boost the tourism in the district with better development of infrastructure. and finally I shall try to develop the economic status of community by development of self help group and shall try to improve the education and health of the community.

Q:what is the differences in govt policies in different part of rajasthan?

A: sorry Sir I don't Know.

Q:what is the status of their implementation like of MNREGA?

A: Sorry sir I have not gone through the reports.

Q tell something about rajasthan geographically.

A; sir, On the west side of aravali lies the desert and east side semi desert. the state falls in subtropical on latitudinally but climatically it is tropical. the state is drought prone.

Q : why now a days people don't choose chemistry

A: (I thought She is asking that why people do not choose chemistry as an optional in Civils so I answered) madam the study of chemistry is tough and the way the answers UPSC wants are of different kind then other exams.

Q: (now she explained) no I am not talking about chemistry for UPSC I mean to say why not at graduation level.

A: sorry madam I don't know even I can see many people are opting for chemistry My graduation college which was only for science stream is still full of students and lot of competition for the seats.

She smiled. may it was sarcastic one :)

Q: Do you know about new science universities opened recently by GOI?

A: Sorry Madam, I don't know.

Q: Do you know any science institutes in India?

A: Yes madam Indian Institute of Science I know.

Q: where it is?

A: it is in Bengluru madam.

(I really answered what was real the above 4-5 questions and answers were not good enough but since I was not aware what else I could have answered. These answers may let me loose some points. may be.)

Q:have you gone through SC order on Euthenesia?

A: yes sir I have

Q: what is your view on it?

A; Sir, I agree with the judgement of hon'ble supreme court, but sir I think along with passive supreme court must also consider the cases on case to case basis since the economic and social problem used to be same in all cases. (Here Chairman and person sitting near to him from kerala cadre seems happy and anodded toward each other).

Q: what is your view about allowing foreign universities to establish their institutions in India?

A: sir There is no harm to allow good foreing Institutions to come and establish their Institutions in India if they deliver good education it will benefit us. Thing is that they must not become just a money making machine.

Q: what is the relation between efficiency, inefficiency and honesty and dishonesty, and Who is more an efficient an efficient but dishonest or a inefficient but honest?

A Sir there is no relation between efficiency, in efficiency and honest and dishonesty. A person who is efficient but honest will be more efficient than a person who is efficient but dishonest.

ok Mr Devesh (the chairman asked other members if they want to ask anything more but they said no it is ok )

I wished them Thanks

And I came out of the room with confident steps

Nirbhay Sharma Sir's boardInterview experience in Lt.Gen Sir Nirbhay Sharma’s BoardMy interview was today on 15th April in the forenoon session.I was thethird candidate to be interviewed.There were two ladies from UP(4th)and Vizag(2nd).There were three other gentlemen from TN(1st) and UP.At11.05 hrs,I was called to enter the board.Before that the gentlemanwho was calling the names asked me to wait for 10 mins .I was a bitnervous but ultimately it was cool and I made up my mind to enter theboard confidently.I saluted Thakur,Ma and Swamiji and went in.Therewas one lady member other than 4 gentlemen including Chairman Sir.Me: Good morning sir.Good morning Mam and Good morning to u allsirs.(with bowing).CH offered me sit and I told Thank you and sat comfortably and waslooking at other members who were gazing at my biodata.CH:What is your name?Me: Sir my name is Joyanta ChakrabortyCH: Humm u are a technocrat and done B.E(Elect) and M.Tech.....Me: Sir I did not complete my M.Tech.CH: Why didn't u complete/what is the reason?Me: Sir my family was undergoing a financial crunch and my parentswanted to take up some job.My mother underwent a surgery and theythought I shall take up a job and it will give them mentalsatisfaction.I too thought of supporting my family rather thanpursuing higher degree sir.CH: Ok.Then you are in Railways,where?Me: Sir I am Senior Electrical Engineer/Design in CLWCH:Through which service?when?Me:Sir Indian Engineering Services 2005 batchCH: So u entered last year?Me: No sir,I have entered the services in 2006 and right now am in job in CLWCH:So in Railways u will be having good saloon cars and bunglaows.Me: Sir now I am not entitled for that .DRMs ,GMs and Members of Boardare entitled.CH: When will u become DRM?Me: Sir normally it takes 25 years down the line in present scenarioto become DRM but there are attributes like performance,ACR,age forthat.CH: Don't u think that these saloons and big bunglaows should beprovided in the initial years as in th

Apr 18

Anonymous these cannot be used as a means of entertainment as u will be very busy?Me:Yes sir these are lot of benefits available to railways officers and these are tantalising at young age and many of us are desirious of that but we have to see that these are not luxurious to them at that age as those are necessities and are required as to shorten their travel time for busier activities and now these will be mere show-offs and are not required at all.CH: Don't u think that GMs have big bungalows and big cars and those are not necessary?We can think of some still less ostentatious arrangements?Me:Sir it is anice idea and I am one with you Sir.The senior officers in Railways will be having very small families,there children will be away from them and they will be very busy.We can think of some furnished flats type of accomodation in cities or HQs and we can utilise the unused lands to create houses for the poor where many of tem don't have roofs over their head and we can serve a socio-economic cause.CH: What is your idea of privatisation of Indian Railways?Why shouldn't we privatise?Me: Sir Railways is used by the general masses and the high classes alos but for the masses ,privatisation will rob their only means of transport.Again it is used to transport raw materials and food,fertiliser which are all realted to the common people's livelihood. In Railways we have to take some social projects which are economically unviable but socially feasible and privatisation will stop it.CH:No we can do the privatisation to earn more money"Me:Sir money earning is a motive for a commercial organisation like Railways but we should have some social commitment.Lots of people are employed as it being the largest PSU employer.CH:No we can think of privatising some parts like Chenia-kolkata,Delhi routes.....Me: Sir we are thinking of DFC and PP models.And also about multimodal transportation and linkage of Railways with Golden Quadrilateral and ports through eco-cities.This will earn revenue for us but these are on PPP model

Apr 18

Anonymous CH: No I am talking of complete privatisation as it....Me: yes Sir it may lead to efficiency enhancement,more productivity and more revenues for Railways but the common man's interest will be at stake and it may lead to inflation and unemployment.CH: But what about some special routes?

Me: Sir with PPP model we can entrust the arrangement of infrastructure with the private parties with operation in our control with a profit sharing but still some routes have to be kept keeping into mind the general passengers.CH: OK(may be not very convinced).Gives batton to the first member.M1: So can we have some model so that we have GMT+6:30 for North eastern and the rest unchanged?Me: Yes we can do that and it will have many advantages as this is done in other developed countries.M1:What advantages are you talking of?Can u define it?Me: yes Sir by doing that we can reschedule the demand of power in these two regions as we don't have surplus adequate power in NER.It will help industrialisation and office working smoother.M1:How?Me: Sir somewhere the job schedule will be starting and somewhere it will be ending. The demand will be reshuffled and we can wheel power from surplus to deficit region.

Apr 18

Anonymous M1: which time it will be of great use?Me: Sir daytime or office time between 10 am to 6 pm.M1: which loads?Me: Sir industrial and commercial loads.M1: How will it be done?what is that will be affected?Me:Sir the total demand can be made even as per the schedule and ...M1: No is there a term cal peak......?Me:Yes sir,(smilingly),the entire peak demand will not be raised together and with the limited installed generation capacity we can utilise it efficiently.M1:Ok.So how will u wheel power from west to east or say NE?Me: sir through HVDC i.e High Voltage Double Circuit.M1: Why?Me: Sir we have read in electrical engineering that above 800 kms HVDC is technically and economically feasible and will serve the purpose.M1:Ok.so how much space is required for that?Any idea?Me: Sir very narrow but long length space as the return path is through ground.So it will not require much space but the distance it will cover will be large.M1: Do u know some separatist movement is going on in the northern part of West bengal and north east to where u want to wheel power from western side.So can u name them?Me: yes Sir.It is Gorkhaland movement in the north bengal for demands of separate gorkha land for the nepalis,sherpas and bhutiyas.M1:no no .it is close to Assam regionMe: Sir Bodoland.

M1: No ,it is north of west bengal and close to AssamMe: Oh Sir it is KLO i.e Kamtapuri Liberation Organisation and Greater Koochbihar Movement.M1: So who are spearheading?Me:Sir I am not sure but if u allow me to guess.....M1:Yahh.carry on.Me:It is Kamtapuris and Koochbiharis(actually I should have said Rajbanshis)M1:what is ur take on small state vs big state:what is ur opinion?there are more talks and more violent protest going on Me:Sir there cannot be a direct yes or no answer to these demsnda.But we have to keep into mind administrative efficiency,economic and financial viability and genuine people’s aspirations to be addressed by the government and should be dealt with in case to case basis.

Apr 18

Anonymous M1: OkCh moves batton to Lady member(M2)M2: Ok what is the present relations with Bangladesh with India?Me:Mam after Awami league came to power under Seikh Hasina ,the relationship is better as they are pro-Indian.But there are some outstanding issue........M2:What are the issritants?what issues are there between us?Me:For India it is undemarcated boundaries,water sharing issues and dams like Ganges,Teesta and Tipaimukh,illegal infiltration,human traficcking etc.From Bangladesh it is trade deficit.Also natural gas.(stops here)M2:What is this Tipaimukh issue?where is it?Me: Mam India is planning to build a dam on Barak river and Bangladesh is saying that it will affect their agriculture on the downstream.Mam I am not exactly sure of the location but if u allow me to guess I can try it.M2:Ok try it out,speak outMe:Mam it is I think in the borders of Manipur annd Mizoram on Barak river.M2: so what is the Ganga water sharing issue?Me:Mam I am exactly not sure but if u allow me to say..M2: Ok tell meMe: Ma when i was working as an executive engineer in Farakka in NTPC I came to know that in 1996 there eas an agreement between Seikh Hasina and India Govt to share a certain volume of water to Bangladesh in april and certain volume of water to India during summersM2: Where is Farakka?what is so famous for?Me: Mam it is in murshidabad and it is famous for linking north and south bengal through a bridge on

river Ganges that flows as Hooghly to South Bengal from Dhulian.mam it has an economic importance of linking the two sides of bengal and the only link.It also connects NER to the rest of India through bengal.Hilsa fish is available in the waters and a tradeable item between us and Bangladesh.There is 1600 MW NTPC power plant superthermal and a hydel plant was planned but I don't know whether it has been made now.M2:so why was this dam built?Any idea?Me: Mam I am not sure of thisM2:Ok try I shall help uMe:(thinking)M1 tells me about whether for flood control or something....

Apr 18

Anonymous Me:(smilingly) Yes Sir I think for flood control and desiltation......M2: Actually it was to save the kolkata port to increase navigability(She confirms me to some extent)Me: Thank you mam.Ch moves baton to M3.I think he was from South India by his content of questions and accent.M3:so from Jadhavpur to erode..A long distance and u had stayed for 4 years..Me:Sir I was first posted in erode under Saelam division in Southern Railways.I stayed there for 6 months only.M3:so u have travelled form howrah to erode many times I assume.Me: yes Sir 3-4 times.M3:so how did u feel a s a passenger as general public not as an officer?Me: sir yes sir.the cleanliness was an issue.The toilets and coaches are not that much clean as it should be.Sometimes the catering services are poor.The food is not tasty and nutritous and people have complaints about the food and linens which are dirty.There is an issue of punctuality and trains become late sometimes.The availability of berth is problem even if we have so many trainsM3: yes still peeple are not getting enough seats....(convinced)Me:yes sir.Still according to the passengers ,there is dearth of trains and the routes are supersaturated.M3:Humm.So as airports do,we can give passes to the passengers when they are boarding.This system of card tickets in papers is very olr process and does not work well.Me: sir we can think of such measures .we can thin k of hand held ticket vending machines which we introduced in Central Railway s for suburban services where u are given tickets thru GPS based system once u board.But there are practical difficulties in long distance trains as we have infrastructure and technological bottleneck as as many passengers would like to concurrently go to the same place,an unplanned on the spot booking may deprive many genuine passengers as there are dearth of trains in the same route compared to passengers.(convinced)

M3: So u know about something of Erode district where some separate statehood demand was going on?

Apr 18

Anonymous (I did not know about separate statehood but separatate municipal corporation)Me:sir I am not aware of this incident.May be I have not followed it that time.M3:So in bengal the congress is not powerful now.When did they become to degrade?Me: sir I think they were in power till 1977 after that and to be precise after 1982 probablyM3: so what is ur opinion about there coming back or reviving?Me: sir sorry sir,I don't have any idea ,I don't know sir.CH:Ok u need not answer that question, don’t answer it now.I shall again ask u some questions later as my questions are not finished.Moves to M4.M4: so u are now in CLW.What are they doing about technology import?Whne did and from where we imported initially?Me: Sir we are importing technology for locomotives,coaches and traction motors.Initually in 1950s we imported from UK and now in 1996 we imported from Sweden and Switzerland from M/s ABB 3 phase loco technology and in 2003 from LHB/Germany for coachesM3: So why are we not importing now?Me:Sir it is costly and a drain on exchequer and dependence on foreign technology and obsolescence can hit usM3: so whether are we doing some new technology?CH also told yes we are now capable enough here in India,don't we?Me: yes sir we also at CLW and RDSO as well other PUs like RCF,ICF are doing work on new technologies.I talked on Loco trol,remote coupling,described,Vigilance control device in which I am involved,Vehicle control electronics,MU coupling of locos,Microporocessor control system modification,AC fitting in locos and some other technologies like TPWS and ATWS.M3:So what bare we doing for coaches like Shatabdi rajdhani rakes?Me: sir we have imported the design of lighter crushproof anti telescopic design of LHB coaches.they have better riding index and payload to tare ratio is moreM3:are we doing something here?Me:sir we are modifying and upgrading it continuously.We are trying to make it with composite material with lesser weight and more with aluminium.It is of green toilets and zero

Apr 18

Anonymous In wagons too we are also trying.RCF and ICF may be doing more and I don't know more about that.M3: so any time frameMe:Sir I don't know about that as RCF and ICF may be doing it so I canot say anything about that.Then there was talks of import substitution,formation of new sources,new developments etc.Next CH took the baton himselfCH: So you are going to be the in charge of administration of some district.You will be involved in some socio economic developmental projects.There are so many social problems.say for westBengal ,the health is a crisis.Is not it?Me:yes sir,it is a serious problem area and we need to do a lot.CH:yes .so what are the programmes?me;Sir NRHM i.e National Rural health Mission.This scheme has to be run successfully and properly implemented.CH:So the scheme is not running well.There are many problems.What do you think will be done to address that?Me:Sir I have to first see whether the provisions of the scheme are there ,means infra,doctors,medicines,Health centers and then its monitoring......(stopped)CH:No those things are not implemented and then say in point form what will you do,say I say Doctors not in..Me Time,not punctual,involved in private practice,not very sensitive and sincere about delivery of health care to the poorCH: yes then medicinesMe: yes they may be of poor quality,medicines for snake bites,maleria which are common in West bengal not available in plenty.health care centers are far away,transportation is a problem,good operation theatres,labour wards,diagnostic centers are not thereCH:So what should be done when u have identified the problemsMeSir initially I should see whether the doctors are doing there duty and I will personally monitor that whether they are there as they are supposed to be,attending patients,any scarcity in doctors has to be filled in,then regarding medicines the quality should be checked thru expiry dates and independent organisations and quality of docs...

Apr 18

Anonymous CH:No the docs may not listen to u ,they will tell they want to pursue higher degree and soMe:Sir I have to convince them and tell rightaway that they have come by their professional choice and as part of there MBBS cours eor by job and they have to serve the people,regarding further studies that they have to do parallely,and I can arrange for good journals or infraCH: but they will say their career prospects are getting disturbed.Me: Sir I have to say that they are dutibound to serve in the rural centers and that is a priority of the government for which they are recruited and being paid and as they are in the job it is a noble cause for which they are hereCh:But your cousin who may be in those doctors that he wants to pursue higher studies and can't give so much timeMe:Sir whether he or she is my cousin or not ,irrespective of any relation with him,I have to tell him or them rules are same for all and serving the people is a noble cause and being a doctor apart form pursuing higher studies it is their duty so long a sthey are in the service to treat the patients in rural areas as they don't have others to be looked afterCH:but your cousin may say that some Chakraborty,mukherjee or ganguly have got degree certificates and I too need them and may be they have got them fakeMe: Sir I have to first check and investigate the allegation but not believe in the face of it.And if really found so,I have to take strict actions like sacking them who have come through such certificatesCH:No they will say their certificates are fairMe:Sir I have to check it out and if found after verification they are achieved thru unfair means ,I have to be rule-bound and retain quality doctors only and take stern measures agaist them who have fake certificates and who are delinquent in dutiesCH:so u said that Railways need not be privatised,It is ok but there are some crucical reasons for that.tell me the most important oneMe:Sir I think Railways are the lifeline of nation.The connect remotest parts of country and

Apr 18

Anonymous carry raw materials,finished goods,food and fertliser which are of most concern to the lives and livelihoods of the common ma,(I should have told strategic word here).There are some areas where we have to take up railways projects which are commercially unviable but socially feasible and a social commitment aspect is there.Besides it is under union list as a means of communications which is of prior necessity.Ch:But there are some other reasons too.Anyways.Thank u and your interview is over.Me: Thanks u Sir.Thank u madam and to all of you sirs.I left the board with a feeling that I could answer many but also could not answer all.It went for around

35 mins.I am not sure how he will assess me and hope God's grace is with me.Best of luck to all fellow candidates too.

Experience with Interview - Civil Services 2010So, it seems we are running fast in time here ! Already two year when i last updated this thread with my 2008 interview. Now its 2010 interview. Here is what went in the 20 min :

Panel : Vijay Singh

Q. It seems you have been into the s/w field for the last five years, so why this shift to civils ? A. It is true that i am having a defined career path settled with a decent salary, fortunately with good education that i was able to get from my society but, if u see, its an individual achievement and when i see myself as a part of my society, it is not an achievement and my society needs and expects me to share my acheivements .. and that is where i have to switch to governemnt services. It is time to put the societal priorities ahead of your own individual prioritiesthere is lot to be done, lots of inefficiecnty everywhere the need of the hour is a bunch of honest and efficient people who can pull the society up. In the end i can say that, the punishment for wise men who refuse to take part in the govt is to suffer under the govt of bad men ..

(there were few laughs and some dialogs went in between the panel members trying to mention that there will be bad men and suffering while you are a part of the govt also ! )

Q. Andhra is called the ricebowl of India, can you tell me any issues with the agriculture in the state?A. Though it is ricebowl of India, it had grave agri issues even after green revolutions .. the primary being farmer suicides and unequitable distribution of irriagation and other facilities among the different regions of the state. Farmer awareness to use latest trechnologies and details of fertilizers n pesticides is not available, which needs to be improved.

Mar 22

Anonymous Q. How do u think the pesticide usage should be among the farmers? A. I said, govt should support and encourage farmers in using pesticides as they cannot afford themseleves. If we can build pest resistant crop varieties it will be much better. Also, if there can be any alternative for pesticides, those areas should be worked out , especially by making some pest resistent varieties of crops/seeds or going into organic farming or other green techniques.

Q. Do u support GM crops?

A. Technology is supposed to help better the lives and when it gets a change, it has to be used. as long as the crop variety is better, any technology usage should not be stopped , given it is properly tested and verified.

Q. He again asked , do u specifically support GM crops?A. I said, YES. since it will be going to be a human experiement of genetically modified varieties, utmost care must be taken before releasing.

Q. I see you have traveling as one of your hobby, what places have you recently visited ?A. I have been to Manali and Leh recently on the Manali - Leh highway on my own vehicle.

Q. Did you talk to the local people there ? And did you find any problems during your travel ? A. Since it is of very high altitude, we had altitude sickness and had to be prepapred for them. yes, we made sure we interacted with the people there, made our trip for 2 weeks for full time, and said their primary educaitonal levels are very good.

Mar 22

Anonymous Q. Recently, what difference did you observe with the states of Bihar and Gujarat?A. Bihar , once one of the most backward regions of the country is now going good with its grass root development, especially with the good implementation of NREGA and other central schemes improving the daily wages of the marginal and agricultural labor, reducing the unemployment and a general overall improvement in the living conditions. Bihar is now the highest in Human Development Index in india amongst the states. In Gujarat, with the existing industrial infrastructure, it was able to sustain its growth trajectory.

Q. Can you tell me how e-gov is being implemented?A. I talked about mission mode projects, national e gov plan (I and II). Explained the different e-gov patterns like G2B, G2G, G2C etc.

Q. Can you explain how G2C works?A. I will explain this by way of taking an example of e-Seva, a G2C initiative in AP where the customers have a single window addressing of e-gov to pay bills and obtain any information, which has been effective and in good use for sometime already.

Q. Did u work in any govt orgs as a part of ur current job at Adobe (i have this mentioned in the application form for mains)?

A. Yes, as a part of my job at Adobe, we worked at National Informatics Center for two years to have the Annual Budget Session live broadcasted over the internet.

Q. What's your take on Women Empowerement ? A. Any discussion of any kind of issues within the society does include in equal regards both men and women. So if men move one step ahead, so must the women, and when it cannot happen due to decades of social deprivation and discrimination, we need to empower them to compete and stand at par with the rest of the society.

Mar 22

Anonymous Q. How do you think we can empower women ? A. We can have different kinds of empowerement like political empowerement which can be done through reservation of quota of seats in the legislatures at the district, state and national levels, and educational empowerement by having higher Gender Empowerement ratios and mandatory seats in all the educational institutes for women.

Q. Being from ECE background, why did you chose Pub Ad and Anthro as your optionals ? A. It was the other way round for me. I got very much interested in going for Civils from reading Public Administration as a subject. I always wondered why even after so much of theory of administration we are still unable to build an efficient system for providing even basic amenities to the public. The interest for Anthropology came after a mix of curiosity over the cultural background as well into the evolution and biological aspects of human evolution.

Q. What makes Anthropology different from other related social sciences ? A. Anthropology is unique in two of its aspects, one is the holitic perspective of looking at the cultural aspects and the comparitive perspective of human evolution in the present form.

Q. Can you explain the current Telangana Crisis with the help of anthropology?A. Since the telangana part was for around 400 yrs under the rule of nizams and asaf jahi dynasties, whereas the coastal andhra and other areas are under the british, there is a cultural difference however slight that might be, that might come up to the surface anytime given the other contridictions are more and more, though there are similar factors like language and same overall ancient history.

Q. Can you tell any Anthropologist who worked in Andhra tribal areas?A. Cannot recall :(

Q. Do you know abt the today's resignation of ISB chairman Rajat Gupta ?A. No idea.

Bye Bye !!

james

intv on 29th march mr vijay singh's boardMy Civil Services Interview :It was on 29th March 2011 Afternoon Session. I was interviewed by Mr. Vijay Singh’s Board.C : Who do u prefer in finals - Sri Lanka or New Zealand ? (It was 1st seminfinal of WC that day)Me : New Zealand .C : why? Because it would be easy for India?Me : I said yesM1 : so u assume that India will go into the final?Me : I said yes. Our team is playing well and its balanced.M2 : our bowlers are not performing well. Zaheer khan is injured ?Me : I said he was injured before. Now he is fine and played an imp role in our win against Australia.

C : so u worked as a derivative trader. Is it a routine job or u make money in that?Me : I said u can make money and also lose it.C : So I assume u didn’t lose money?Me : I was there for 3 months and I was in a little loss when I quit.C : what was your job profile in Malaysia?Me : I was part of a team that used to install jacket in the sea before drilling.C : your job sounds interesting. I think you will not get such interesting job in a district?Me : Sir, even before I joined the job. I had in my mind that I have to go for civil services. I did job to get experience of corporate sector and also to earn money to sustain myself in the preparation. Moreover I think that civil services is the most diverse and challenging job than what private companies may offer.

Apr 5

james M3 : In how many categories Nobel prize is given?Me : 6 . phy, chem., eco, medicine, peace and literature.M3 : who got nobel peace prize 2 years ago ?Me : Mr Barack Obama.M3 : you know what’s happening in middle east. He is attacking Libya so should nobel prize be taken away from him.Before I could answer, she changed the question.M3 : what is the reason of revolt in tunisia?

Me : The main reason is absence of civil rights, poor economy, widespread unemployment.M3 : why did it happened late in Libya ?Me : people in Libya were suffering but lacked courage. When they saw people in Tunisia and Egypt revolting, they also started believing in their strength.M3 : what was India’s reaction?Me : India abstained from voting in UN.M3 : Do you support this view?Me : Yes madam. Libya is a soverign country and its her internal matter. Also the option of dialogue was not used. Military action should be the last option. This shows that there might be some other intentions of these countries.M3 : what can be the reason ? oil ?Me : Yes it could be one of the reason.M3 : are u following the news of resumption of dialogue with Pakistan ?Me : Yes madam.M3 : Do you support it ?Me : Yes madam.M3 : but nothing has been achieved dialogue thing since last 60 years?Me : I think dialogue is necessary but not sufficient.M3 : Then what else can be done ?Me : madam we should strengthen our internal intelligence and military. We should continue with economic growth. Also we should try to become UNSC permanent member which would strengthen our position vis-à-vis Pakistan.At this juncture mr. Vijay singh said there is big IF to our becoming permanent UNSC member.

Apr 5

james M2 : what will be benefits if we become permanent member of UNSC ?Me : Sir it would increase our bargaining power vis- a-vis other countries.M2 : So we would be able to dominate Pakistan ?Me : Sir our position on outstanding issues will get strengthened.M2 : you are from the best college in india- IIT Bombay. Why do u want to join civil services?Me: Sir civil services gives me chance to be part of administration. Administration provides the most diverse and challenging job.M2: How?M2 : We are running the largest poverty eradication programme in the world. We are running the largest literacy campaign in the world. I don’t think any company would be able to provide the same kind of job. Also it gives me chance to fulfill my social responsiblity.

M2: Are you aware of any law like “Right to Power” passed by parliament ?Me : No Sir.M2 : Are you aware of any mandate?Me : No Sir.M2 : What is India doing on energy front ?Me : traditionally we have coal and oil. Now we are diversifying our energy resources from nuclear, solar, wind, biofuel.M2 : But this things wouldn’t be able to satisfy the growing needs. What is that technology which would be able to satisfy needs of not only India but of the world?Me : (after thinking a lot) Fusion Technology.M2 : Yes you are right.

Then Mr. Vijay singh told that the M4 will ask you one medical question.Me : Ok sir.M4: what will you do if somebody has pain in the lower half of the right abdomen?Me : (thinking for a while ) Sir I will take the patient to hospital or call the doctor .He didn’t react but chairman said okk fine it’s a safe option.

Apr 5

james M1: you are from IIT Bombay. Do u know abt the research scenario in IITs.Me : Sir it is good if we compare with other colleges in India but US univs are ahead of IITs in research.M1: why?Me : Sir I think the main reason is that in US and Europe. Private enterprises are investing in R&D in professional colleges which is not the case in India. The govt in both US and India are investing but in US it is the private people who are driving the field.M1 : you know there have been proliferation of IITs in India. Do u think it is right?Me : Sir IITs were established in 1950s and there was need for gradual proliferation but in 40 years there were no new IITs except IIT guwahati . So now gov have realized the need for engineers in growing economy and the colleges are necessary.M1: doesn’t that affect quality?Me : sir the quality should be taken care of by govt. quantity and quality need not be mutually exclusive.M1 : How?Me : The govt should provide good salary to professors.M1 : So you think people earning handsome salary abroad will come back to India?Me : Yes sir. I know many of my friends who are doing PhDs outside want to come back to India. Infact

similar trend was seen after 1991 liberalisation.M1: have u seen 3 idiots?Me: yes sirM1 : do u like it ? is everything shown in that movie is correct ?Me : Sir the movie was entertaining but its not the case in IITs. There ,the professor are very helpful and they don’t pressurize students. Stress is laid on concept buildings.M1: In IITs it might be the case but don’t u think in lower education system, there is stress on mugging and craming. But mind that the students of our system are able to compete well at int’l level.Me : Sir the present system is advantageous to bright students of class but it is disadvantageous to weak and below average students.M1 : so what can be done?Me : sir I think we need to improve the quality of our teachers. Recruitment procedure should me improved.

At this point. The chairman says Thank you.

interview my interview was on march 31, 2011 afternoon.i was second one in list.my two friends who are with me in service was also there having different boards. so i was feeling normal before interview .. :D..i got Shashi Uban Tripathi board.she started late as other boards had already started calling candidates and were still waiting.i entered her room at about 3:10 pm

CP called me in and i said good afternoon to madam and other members.

CP: so u have done engineering in computers and you are from rajasthan. so what u have been doing after graduation.me: i joined state service as RAS last year and under going training.CP: so what u have learned during training?me: implementation of programmes, service delivery to public, etc.CP: what are qualities of administrator?me: answered it ( my optional pubad so very easy to reply)

then she asked another member to begin

M1: u are DM of jodhpur, Prince charles come and ask u to arrange facility to shoot a deer and Bishnoi community is there who will surely oppose this. wat u will do?me: i will inform him with respect that it is not possible as it is against law of land ..M1: he will insist, then??me: i will again inform him that it is not possibleM1: u will be transfered from there.me: no problemM1: now lets u r Dm of sriganganagar , there was incidence of fake arm licences being issued to people and few big officials are now under scanner , so wat u will do?? (he kept asking me long questions which didnt have long answers)me: i will take action against sdm and adm under arms act who issued licenses as they gave licenses to common public having guns illegally bought from armyM1: u will be transfered as political lobby will be involved/me: i said no problemM1: then u r at sawai madhopur, and wat happened in these days what u will do and if u do same thing here u will be transfered.me: yes sir, it may be possibleM1: your wife will not pack bags then what u will do?me: i will convince her that transfer is a part of job and government can place at anywhere in state.M1: but she will not agree , then? (picche pad gaya )

me: i will surely convince herM1: education of your children will suffer due to transfersme: as my parents are in ajmer , i will place them in good school in ajmerM1: ok, your hobby is playing cricket, so what any other sport u watch on tv other than this? (now he changed his direction)me: (i smiled) sir , apart from cricket...M1: tell me about kings of ajmer. (he didnt allowed me to answer last question , i think he was police officer, more intersted in speaking)me: prithviraj chauhan, arnoraj, ajaypalM1: ok , why he prithviraj lost battle of tarain?me: he won first time and second time he was not preparedM1: ok it doesnot mean that i won first time so u can win next time, so tell me what were reasons?M4: your optinal is history so answer this. (he jumped and tried to grill me)CP: let me see your optionals, ok your optiinal are sociology and public administration. so no problemM1: ok, but he didnt answered. (he still tried to continue, picche hi pad gaya tha)

CP signalled to second member and for M1 it was over... :)M2: what happened in japan so what should be done in india , what should we do?me: we need to diversify our source, it is a good option , so we can take safety audit and other international guidelines can be follwoedM2: but why people r opposing?me: they are concerned abt land compensation and other issues like in jaitapur apart from possible radiation effectsM2: so isn't government is wrong?me: no, government is working for public and communication between them will ensure that it is implemented by addressing their concernsM2: what u will do?me: in district , some team can be made to inform public abt its benefit, help of civil society etc. (pubad matter)M2: and for any accident, if happens?me: district team which can give first response, so they can be trained for this work wherever nuclear plants are located

M2: what is nuclear liability bill? (yahi pad ke nahi gaya tha)me : it provide for channeling of legal liability and ensures quick compensation to public through clarifying resposibiltyM2: what is maximum amount permitted?me: 2200 croresM2: no it is 2000 croresme: ok, (ab jyada yaad nahi tha , shayad 2200 tha )M2: who is responsible?

me: operator of plant for any mishappeningM2: what is time limit of claim?me: 20 yearsM2: wat was earlier limit?me: 10 yearsM2: what its time limit to provide for compensation?me: sorry, i am not able to recollect

CP then signaled to 3rd member

M3: u r from science background so tell me equation of nuclear reactor?me: i tried to answer that one uranium atom when collide with neutron...M3: no, have u heard about E=mc2me: yes sir. given by Einstein, it give large amount of energy as speed of light is huge number..(yah click hi nahi hua)

M3: so tell me specific technical safeguards taken in nuclear reactors, not like we discueesd easrlier?me: one , thorough control rods to absorb neutrons to either stop or reduce rate of nuclear reactions. two, by using water circulation mechanism to avoid over heating which may cause meltdownM3: it is heavy waterme: yes sirM3: tell me about IT act 2000?me: it provide for legal recognition of digital documnets, signatures, transactions and provide penaql provisions for any misuse of computer devicesM3: have u read this act in engineering?me: noM3:ok

Cp then signaled 4th to start

M4: tell me about a person who was appointed as governer of state by president, he didn't joined the post and still called as governer of that state? me. sorry i dont know... (i thought he was asking abt additinal charge, but clear nahi kiya usne)M4: when other nuclear accident occured before japan?me: three mile islandM4: whre it is?me: US, and before that chernobyl in ukraineM4: what is new step in computer application?

me: cloud computingM4: tell me generic nameme: i don't knowM4: what is inflation? (yaha fass gaya sala economy weak hai meri)me: due to demand supply mismatchM4: what government can do abt inflation?me: it is due to market so government does not decide it..(error)M4: thn wat government can do?me: by taking action against hoardingM4: then why public is asking govenrment for inflation?me: to take action against hoarding, black marketing, M4: what then if petrol price increases?me: govenrment can reduce indirect taxesM4: u said tht government can't do anythingme: government can deal through tax cut

M4: what is IMFme:it is a international body which provide short term loan for countries facing balance of payment crisisM4:why it is needed as it imposes it condition on developing countries?me: yes , it provide conditinalities for improving economy of country , which is some time criticised. like it in India's case in 1991, it gave guidelinesM4: so it should be accepted?me: no, if it unnecesary then it can't be accpeted, as any country has freedom to take its own decisinsM4: then why we need it, should we scrap it?me: it is not necessary, if any body is providing us guideline and expert assistance then we can consider it, then it can be our decision that wheteher we accpet it or not. it provide guidelines which can take while deciding our policies in this matter

CP said ok..CP: do we indians love cricket or cricketers?me: bothCP: no , mention oneme: cricketCp: then why others matches where india is not playing have not full packed stadiums?me: they watch on TV, and there are too many matchesCP: are, tell na ki we indians love them and it is not wrong......... she was smiling and said ok .. your interview is over.....

it lasted till 3:40 pm...whole interview was cordial now having my fingers crossesd................