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  • *Urgent – Mock Interviews Round 2 on coming Thursday 21st Feb

    Students,
    After a successful Round 1, we are delighted to announce that we are conducting the 2nd round of Mock Interviews on the 21st Feb – Coming Thursday. 
    Our previous session was very well appreciated by all candidates facing the interviews.
    Venue – Statesman House, Barakhamba Road near Connaught Place. (This we believe is convenient for everyone).
    Students who are available in Delhi should confirm their availability on the 21st by dropping an email to hello@civilsdaily.com
    We are assuming that all of you have already emailed us your DAFs. In case you haven’t please do so. We have to spend time on it to ensure better quality.
    *Slots will be handed over on a first come first serve basis*.
    Besides our beloved VP Sir who has been mentoring candidates for years, we have roped in Dr. Makhan Saikia,  Mr. Rohit Pande and Mr. Rakesh Dalal.
    The details of the panelists are as follows –

    Virendra Pratap Singh did is B.Tech from IIT Kharagpur in 2003. He joined the services with immense experience in the Private Sector working across domains in high profile companies like Tata Steel, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd, and Tata Motors. He has consistently scored very high marks in interviews. His 2009 score of 213/300 was among the toppers.

    His insights have proved to be very helpful to aspirants appearing for exams year after year.

    Dr. Saikia is an Author & Expert on International Affairs and Foreign Policy. He has an MA & M. Phil (Pol. Sc.) JNU, New Delhi and Ph.D (Globalization and Governance). His schedule is packed with Conferences and Talks at various national and international forums. At present is he working on a book on major conflicts worldwide. Very rarely he can be seen expressing his opinion for The Pioneer

    We believe his immense knowledge on critical contemporary issues will benefit the students and help them face the actual interview with confidence. He will be holding an informal round-table session with all the candidates present on high probable topics.

    Mr. Pande, Consultant Tata Trust and understands India’s social sector in great depth. He has a B.Tech from IIT Guwahati with certification in Public Policy. He has interacted with almost every big NGO in our country and has traveled far and wide working with governments and startups trying to upgrade services for the needy and poor.
    His ground-level insights will help students enrich their answers wrt social problems faced by India.
    Rakesh Sir is a popular figure with Civilsdaily Junta.Man of many degrees – MA, MBA and Political Analyst with a passion for books. Takes out time to read a minimum of 4 books/month on various issues. He knows the interviews in and out and has been instrumental in pinpointing the issues with candidates.

    All the panelists are up to date with the latest trends in UPSC interview. They have been associated with UPSC candidates and have kept a tab on the changing format of the exam and the interviews.
    This will be an enriching experience with a lot of learning.
    Another important point. We want your support to help this interview program evolve into something phenomenal.
    While we wish all of you are selected, the hard truth is some of you will be giving the interviews next year. We want to put a system in place where we record your performance in the mocks this year, then get details from you on how your actual interview went. Next year, we assess how your responses have matured.
    This might sound bleh at this point and you’d think who cares about next year. But its only by maintaining continuity can we create real value for you.
    Hence, we will encourage informal questions, suggestions to our team (not the panelists).
    Always at your corner
    Civilsdaily

  • Interview Transcript – Kunal Aggarwal

    This script would be of great help to everyone having PSIR as optional.
    It gives a glimpse of a good probing interview/conversation. All of you are requested to understand the pattern of interview clearly depicted here.

    Board – Sujatha Mehta Mam
    Background – Sonipat, Haryana

    – Education – B.Tech, Comp Sci, IIT Hyderabad
    – Job – 3 years as Software Developer at Goldman Sachs
    – Hobbies – Cooking, Watching TV Shows

    Chairman

    – Can you introduce yourself focussing on your education and job?
    – When did you leave your job?
    – What did you do in your job?
    – Were you developing software for in-house clients or outside?
    – What is that you were working on?
    – Have you read the article on medical implants?
    – tell me about it

    M1

    – Why does Haryana have high economic growth but low social development?
    – I answered but he seemed unconvinced
    – How is Bangladesh developing? Why it has better social parameters than India?

    M2

    – Why are there so many vacancies in engineering colleges?
    – Why do people move to other fields?
    – Why the majority are not working in technical fields?
    – “We can not innovate” – do you agree? what do you think about it?
    – B.Tech can not innovate but M.Tech can?

    M3

    – Means and Ends discussion
    – Are means important?
    – Isn’t that the case that sometimes consequences are very important?
    – Have you heard the word critical thinking? With thinking we attach many prefixes like lateral thinking, innovative thinking. Tell me what is innovative thinking?
    – Then, what is lateral thinking?
    – What is ignorance?
    – What is the difference between ignorance and ignoring?

    M4

    – How did you get the inspiration to join civil services from a good job?
    – What do you look forward to in civil services?
    – So, let’s give you a challenge. Suppose there is an encroachment on the middle of a road. You have to demolish it but the elected representative does’t want it to be demolished?
    – He has a personal stake, won’t allow. Then?
    – He has business there. Then?
    – Do you think India’s Pakistan policy is a failure?
    – Has the army been able to tackle it?
    – Then, what do you think of yesterday’s event (attack on CRPF convoy)? Should we talk to Pakistan?
    – What should we do with Pakistan?

    M2 – Tell me your one strength. Then, he confirmed are you sure? Then, tell me one weakness as well. Tried to probe on how and why? Chairman passed intervened and asked the next member.

  • [Video] Essay Writing Tips by Vipul Shrivastava, IPS

    Vipul Sir’s step by step instructions on how to go about essays.

     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWex_2RZshg

     

    View all the details of the Batch 2 of the program and join here – Click2Join

    If you wish to join batch 2 of only the sectional essays program, you can do that here: Click2Join

    Click here to check out all our programs and understand how we are making them better. 

  • Importance of attempting quality tests – Evidence-based Questions approach will give you an edge in Prelims

    The philosophy of our Test Series has been to bring it closer to the actual exam in terms of both toughness and format. We try to ensure that the standard of questions is continuously raised.

    One of the ways we do it is using – Evidence-based question making

    The questions are not framed according to the whims and fancies of the question-makers. They have to provide objective evidence to the supervisory team about the relevance of the question and why it has a higher probability of being asked in the actual exam. They have to prove that a similar question has been asked previously in the Prelims exam.

    We are putting in conscious effort to ensure more questions are asked on themes that UPSC considers important. At the same time, we try to ignore those themes that UPSC has been ignoring. List of examples presented at the end.

    Examples of Evidence-based question making 

    Consider the following statements :

    1. The north-south extent of India is greater than its east-west extent.

    2. Area Wise, Rajasthan is the largest state and Sikkim the smallest.

    Select the correct statements using the code below :

    a) 1 only

    b) 2 only

    c) Both 1 and 2

    d) Neither 1 nor 2

    Similar question asked in UPSC 2016 Prelims

    Which of the following pairs of States of India indicates the easternmost and westernmost State?

    a) Assam and Rajasthan

    b) Arunachal Pradesh and Rajasthan

    c) Assam and Gujarat

    d) Arunachal Pradesh and Gujarat

    Which one of the following islands are separated from each other by the ‘Duncan Passage? 

    a) Little Andaman and Great Andamans

    b) Nicobar and Sumatra

    c) Maldives and Lakshadweep

    d) Sumatra and Java

    Similar question asked in UPSC 2014 Prelims

    Which one of the following pairs of islands are separated from each other by the ‘Ten Degree Channel’?

    a) Andaman and Nicobar

    b) Nicobar and Sumatra

    c) Maldives and Lakshadweep

    d) Sumatra and Java

    Which of the following are the features of Subsistence Farming:

    1. Most of the work is done manually.

    2. overall yield is high but productivity per labor is low.

    3. Traditional methods of farming are followed.

    Select the correct statements using the code given below:

    a) 1 and 2 only

    b) 1 and 3 only

    c) 2 and 3 only

    d) All of the above

    Similar question asked in UPSC 2012 Prelims

    Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’?

    (a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops

    (b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field

    (c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together

    (d) None of the above

  • Interview Enrichment Program – Mock interviews

    Dear students,

    We are starting to release the mock interview videos. The playlist is being maintained here.

    It is well known that the interview is the third and final stage of the CSE. But, the importance of this stage is often underestimated. Despite being a fraction of the total marks in the exam, its weightage is tremendous when it comes to the final rank a candidate gets. Many times it is the interview that makes or breaks your dream of joining the elite clique of civil servants.

    It is vital to realise that cracking the interview is an ‘art’ as well as a ‘science’, both of which are intrinsically connected. In order to understand this enigma, Civils Daily studied the interview to the bone and the findings were shared with the student community through the free lectures of Sh. V.P. Singh (IRTS, 2009).

    We went one step further and conducted mock interviews based on the findings of our research. The mocks were taken by a distinguished panel of experts including Dr. Makhan Saikia (published author and faculty of Pol. Sc.), Sh. V.P. Singh (IRTS, 2009) and Mr. Rakesh Dalal (Core Faculty and Mentor, CD). The comprehensive assessment has been done on parameters like:

    1. Integrity
    2. Leadership
    3. Critical power of assimilation
    4. Openness to new ideas
    5. A clear and logical expression
    6. Balance of judgement
    7. Mental alertness
    8. Emotional stability
    9. Body language

    The mocks not just corroborated the strengths of the candidates, but, and more importantly; revealed hidden shortcomings which could have proved deadly in the actual interview.

    The following are the links of the mock interviews taken on 8th January 2019 for your reference:

    KUNAL AGGARWAL – MOCK INTERVIEW

    Personifying a ‘never-say-die attitude’, Kunal is a charismatic young man whose passion for civil services is equated by his calm composure and balanced replies in this ‘stress interview’. After his B.Tech (Computer Sc. and Engineering) from IIT, Hyderabad; Kunal had been working in a reputed MNC for 3 yrs until his decision to take on the UPSC. This mock interview will be most beneficial to those having PSIR optional and to those dejected with multiple attempts at CSE.

    ROHIT ANAND – MOCK INTERVIEW

    With a passion for teaching and serving the underprivileged, this electronics and communication engineer from NSIT, Delhi has balanced his job with social service. With PSIR as his optional subject and an intriguing social service profile, Rohit made a classic interview candidate. His replies further kindled the interview panel’s curiosity. Watch this session to find out what could be those obscure contradictions in your DAF that could cost you your dream job.

    VISHAL SINGH – MOCK INTERVIEW

    This energetic mechanical engineer from IIT Guwahati has a DAF that can fill anyone with awe. The diversity of his extracurriculars are equivalent to his academic feats. But, nothing attracts the inquisitiveness of the interview board more than a rich DAF. Watch this electrifying session for life-changing tips on interview prep.

    CD has done its part in making this ordeal of a stage more intelligible and less daunting. It is now your turn to roll the ball further with your valuable feedback and active cooperation.

    Let 2019 be the year you make history!!

    Cheers,
    Team CD

    Don’t miss out on the program – Click here to know more

     

  • Samachar Manthan – the course to help you get a grip on Current Affairs

    Samachar Manthan needs no introduction. It has become a standard and everyone is trying to bring out a copy-pasted version of the same.

    Here’s a snippet of what you get – 

    1. Video Lectures every week.
    2. Detailed Notes – from a variety of sources. Not just confined to The Hindu.
    3. A clear demarcation between Prelims specific and Mains specific news
    4. Current Affairs based Prelims Tests.
    5. Current Affairs based weekly Mains Tests.
    6. Evaluation by experts to iron out weaknesses in test taking
    7. Mentorship and Personalised Attention
    8. Full access to CD Monthly Magazines – including editorial analysis, PIB, etc.

     

    Samachar Manthan Current Affairs Module 2018-19 (December 2018 to May 2019)- Starts 2nd December

    Join Samachar Manthan 2018-19 (December 2018 to May 2019) [without Answer Writing Module] here: Click2Join

    Join Samachar Manthan 2018-19 (December 2018 to May 2019) [with Answer Writing Module] here: Click2Join

    [Batch 2] Samachar Manthan Yearly 2018-19 (Full Year Coverage of Current Affairs)

    Join Batch 2 of the SM Yearly program [with Answer Writing Module] here: Click2Join

    If you wish to join the program without answer writing feature, you can do that here: Click2Join

    Click here to check out all our programs and understand how we are making them better. 

  • Prime Test Series – Feb Batch | Study-plan | 10% Discount | Tests start 24th Feb

    Dear Students,

    Multiple emails have forced us to announce the last batch with an updated study-plan. The same is available by clicking here – TS 2019 Time-table

    All the features of the program and joining links are available here – Click2View

  • Targeting 160+ in your Essay? 4 ways how our program can help you.

    Every good candidate hovers around 90-110 in the GS Papers (1-3). Where brilliant students outscore their competitors is the Essay – with scores varying from 70 to 160. That’s a difference of 90 marks. Potentially the difference between final list and disappointment. Or between IAS and Grade B services.

    Practicing essays can also be the best way to consolidate what you’ve read so far and make good revision notes helping you for both prelims and mains GS papers as well.

    We have been receiving a lot of queries regarding Essay strategy.

    • Is there a format to follow?
    • How does an Essay format differ from a GS answer?
    • Where can I get personalized feedback?
    • Is there a way I can write better essays using my strengths instead of just following the herd?

    Well, we have created a program just for you. Tailored to maximize your scoring potential without sacrificing the uniqueness you bring to the table. Our program focuses on these things:

    1. Precise Topic Selection – Mirroring what UPSC gives
    2. A rigorous methodology for reviews – We have endeavoured to create a methodology that is as close to the final test as possible. We will focus on Structuring, Language and Expression, Links and Flows, Fundamental Flaws flagging and Appreciation for Unique perspective.
    3. Sample Structure, video solutions, and personalized attention – to help you to think along various dimensions. Highlight the good, bad and ugly so you can learn. Additionally, discussion on different styles in which one particular essay can be attempted as there is no unique right way.
    4. Good essay copies for review and learning.

    Our team has assembled seasoned bureaucrat Mr. Vipul Shrivastava, IPS who is spearheading the initiative.

    View all the details of the Batch 2 of the program and join here – Click2Join

    If you wish to join batch 2 of only the sectional essays program, you can do that here: Click2Join

    Click here to check out all our programs and understand how we are making them better. 

  • [Video] Interview Enrichment Program – Dr. Saikia explains the developments in Brexit and the Middle East

    Dr. Saikia is a leading analyst of International Relations, Globalization and India’s foreign policy. He occasionally writes for The Pioneer and is a regular speaker at prominent global conferences.
    He is passionate about shaping the next generation of bureaucrats. He took out time from his busy schedule to interact with the candidates facing the interviews in the coming weeks.
    In this session, he effortlessly touches upon the various dimension of the 2 most important crisis – Brexit and the Middle East.
    Students preparing for Prelims and Mains should make a note of various Organizations, Conferences, and Conventions mentioned by Sir. Doubts can be posted in the comments below.

  • 9th February 2019 | Daily Answer Writing Enhancement

    Students are advised to post answers by clicking on each question separately in the comment section followed after each question. Kindly ensure that answer to each question is posted as a separate comment with the purchase ID provided by us.

    Reviews will be provided in a week for those who are writing on time. (In the order of submission- First come first serve basis). In case the answer is submitted late the review period may get extend to two weeks.

    *In case your answer is not reviewed in a week, reply to your answer saying *NOT CHECKED*. If Pritam Sir’s tag is available then tag him.  

    For the philosophy of AWE and payment, check  here: Click2Join

    Question 1)

    Do you think the American Revolution would have happened if, there had not been an age of enlightenment? (250 W)

    Question 2)

    RTI Act has transparency, accountability and participation as its mandate and is considered equally important legal document after the Constitution. In the light of the above statement describe the importance of Information Commissions at the center and state levels. Also discuss the challenges they have been facing in fulfilling their mandate. (250 W)

    Question 3)

    India’s abysmal spending on healthcare is a big matter of concern and requires an increased expenditure on preventive healthcare system. Analyze (250 W)

    Question 4)

    Ethics Case Study: In the face of acute famine in the district, you, as an area officer, have instructed your subordinates to procure food grains from the FCI godowns located in the adjoining districts. This would make the food grains available to the public through PDS shops. Considering the gravity of the situation, this task has to be done immediately, because majority of the people in the district are poor, and therefore can’t buy the food at the market prices. However, you were told that all the truck operators have formed a cartel and are asking for three times the usual transportation rate, in order to exploit the situation. This would nullify your effort, as the prices of the food grains would increase due to high transportation charges. (a) Following are some suggested options. Please evaluate the merits and demerits of each of the options: 1. Threaten the truck owners of severe consequences if they do not fall in line and cancel their transportation permits. 2. Transport the food grains by Railways, though it may take a week. 3. Agree to pay the truck owners the transportation charges they are demanding, so as to ensure the availability of food grains, but searching for alternative and affordable transportation. However, take legal actions against the truck owners at a later time. 4. Asking the state government for sending some help. (b) Also indicate (without necessarily restricting to the above options) the course of action you would like to follow, giving proper reasons for the same. (250 words)