IIT Madras alumnus clears UPSC, joins civil services, then walks away: ‘Things take a toll’ |

Clearing UPSC is a goal that many aspirants spend years working towards. But after achieving that goal and entering government service, some may still find themselves questioning whether the career is right for them. Bharani Vlsvss, an IIT Madras alumnus who cleared the civil services examination and joined the Indian Trade Service, has shared why he eventually chose to leave government service and return to the private sector.In a detailed post, Vlsvss spoke about his experience and the aspects of the civil services system that made him rethink his career. His comments have also received varied reactions from users online.

Not every civil service offers the same experience

Vlsvss highlighted the differences between the various services that candidates can enter after clearing the civil services examination.He said these differences go beyond prestige and perks, and can also affect an officer’s opportunities, working conditions, institutional support and quality of life.“To begin with, the disparity between the so-called ‘elite’ services and the others under the civil services umbrella. And I am not talking merely about prestige or perks,” said Vlsvss.He pointed out that candidates who go through the same examination process can have very different experiences after joining different services.

IIT Madras alumnus clears UPSC, joins civil services, then walks away: ‘Things take a toll’

He questioned the space for specialists

Vlsvss also focused on the role of specialised knowledge within government.He said there is a need for people with expertise in specific fields, particularly as governance becomes more complex. However, he believes specialists have limited opportunities to influence decisions and progress within institutions.“Then there is the question of expertise. At a time when governance is becoming increasingly complex, the need for specialists has never been greater. Yet, the system continues to be dominated by generalists, with limited scope for specialists to shape decisions and rise within the institution,” he said.

Work and career progression

Another issue he raised was the connection between an employee’s work and professional growth.Vlsvss questioned whether the amount of work someone does always makes a difference to their career. He also pointed to uneven accountability and differences in professional standing.“There is also the question of satisfaction in government. A system where work or no work often makes little difference. Where accountability is uneven. Where professional standing and career progression can depend more on your service than on what you actually do.”

Why changing careers can get harder

Vlsvss said leaving government service can become more difficult after spending several years in the system.He explained that starting again in another field becomes a bigger challenge as time passes. He also said that this can have an impact over the years.“The longer you stay, the harder it can become to step out and start afresh. Over time, these things take a toll. I have enormous respect for the many good people in government who continue to do meaningful work despite the system. But respect for individuals does not require silence about institutional problems.”For Vlsvss, this experience eventually led him to question whether the trade-off involved in the career was worth it.

His advice for UPSC aspirants

Vlsvss also addressed those preparing for the civil services examination.He urged aspirants to think carefully before dedicating several years to the examination and said they should not pursue it simply because people around them consider it the ultimate career destination.“The years spent preparing are some of the prime years of your life. Locking yourself up for years, postponing life and opportunities in pursuit of an examination, is not a decision to be taken lightly. Do not enter the race merely because everyone around you tells you it is the ultimate destination. It isn’t.”

What users said

The post received different responses from users.One person praised Vlsvss for speaking openly about his experience:“The courage and honestly is very evident in this message. Thank you for talking about it,”Another user argued that leaving the system would not solve its problems:“Quitting does not change anything. You have to fight against the system, change it and make it professional.”A user agreed with his point about specialists, writing:“Rare courage to say this out loud. Your point about generalists crowding out specialists, just when governance needs depth most, is the one that will stay with me.”Another user offered him encouragement:“If you can clear UPSC, you can do well anywhere. Just maintain your optimism, take momentary setbacks in stride and and keep working hard!”Disclaimer: This article is based on a post shared by the individual on social media. The views and statements expressed are his own and have not been independently verified by The Times of India.Thumb image: Canva (for representative purposes only)