In recent memory, we were witnessed to a dozen of old war horses making it to the big league of MPSC Main. Ultimately, a handful of them had gone on to hit the much exacting bull‘s-eye. Instantly, over-worked rumour mills churned out half-baked truth that goaded us into question-ing the reliability of the recruitment proc-ess; that money, muscle and vested politi-cal clout might have found its way into the system. While there are reasons to believe so, there are also reasons to be gung ho about. We can go on debating for and against endlessly. The point is, let us not miss the wood for the tree and discredit the feats and successes of our fellow vic-tors. They deserve more than mere pats. Please spare them the insult.

Again, soon thereafter, another declaration brought both glam and glum in equal measures to the faces of UPSC aspirants. While we sent our heartfelt solidarity in their moment of contrition to the laggards, we cannot help but rejoice, though with an element of envy, to the tunes of victory drum. If the information I have gathered is any indication, we have reasons to look forward to the future with much fanfare. 2007 can arguably be touted as the year churning out the highest qualifier (KSOD‘ites) to the Main. The year ahead promises much more. Hurray!

Many who stayed in Delhi for a long haul had witnessed firsthand how many veter-ans of UPSC had solemnly hung up their boots (read pens) and had moved on to diversify their chances in life. While few succeeded in their alternative attempts, many had been consigned to the obscure history. Their epitaphs still reverberate with echoes of lack of conscientious and judicious selection of career path. Which is also a warning against career-detouring where the chances of having to miss the bus are very high.

As much as it is easy to drag yourself into the rat-race of the celebrated track called UPSC, it is also exceedingly taxing to be a consistent performer. The first advice due to the new entrant is - change the way you live, drink, eat and sleep. In other words – overhaul yourself. Until that happens, you will just be another Roll No. year after year. To be in the league with the best and struggling to equal them in their turf is next to impossible. Do not cringe! Though remember to tell yourself that you are sec-ond to none. All you need is a reality bite that you cannot anymore dwell in the world of fairy tale fantasy. The highest exam of the country merits mental and physical sinew of another level. Prepare to burn your finger, coz in the process you will have saved many hearts from being burnt. 2010 is here, let us scale new heights of success. Happy New Year! Read the full story