One app for all your study abroad needs
The Union Public Service Commission administers the Civil Services Examination, a nationwide competitive exam, to candidates seeking admission to the Indian Government’s higher civil services, which include the Indian Administrative Service, Indian Foreign Service, and Indian Police Service.
But who exactly sets the UPSC questions that make aspirants sweat? The answer lies with the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) itself. In this article, let us try to answer your question: Who sets the UPSC question Paper?
Table of Contents
Who Sets the UPSC Question Paper?
The UPSC exam question papers are created by a secret panel of experts whose composition is not revealed by the Commission. Only the chairman and secretary of the commission interact with the panel, which includes specialists in different subjects and areas.
Unlike some university exams where professors set papers, UPSC maintains strict anonymity around the question paper setters. This anonymity ensures impartiality and prevents any possibility of influence or leaks. However, that doesn’t mean the paper setters are faceless entities.
Controversy Around the UPSC Process
“UPSC question paper gets ‘lost in translation” in 2019 the Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas (SSUN), an education body linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), suggested that the UPSC should draft the civil services exam question paper in Hindi, rather than translating it from English to other regional languages. The RSS claimed that the essence of the question is lost in translation, putting students taking the exam in Hindi and other languages at a disadvantage.
Former members of the UPSC had expressed their opinion that while the concern being raised was valid, setting the question paper in Hindi alone may not be the solution. They suggested that having multilingual experts in the panel that sets the question papers could be a possible solution.
A Look at the UPSC Question Paper Setting Process
By understanding who sets the UPSC question papers and their approach, aspirants can develop a targeted preparation strategy and approach the exam with greater confidence. Remember, the UPSC exam is not just about rote learning; it’s about testing your ability to think critically and become a well-rounded administrator. Below we have listed out the answers to who sets UPSC question paper :
- Subject Matter Experts: UPSC assembles panels of experts specializing in various subjects covered in the exam syllabus. These experts could be professors from reputed universities, retired civil servants, or academicians with extensive knowledge in their respective fields.
- Tough Selection Process: The selection of question paper setters is a lengthy procedure. UPSC considers factors like experience, expertise, and understanding of the latest trends in the subject. This ensures the questions are not only relevant but also test a candidate’s analytical abilities and in-depth knowledge.
- Maintaining Secrecy: The question paper setters work in secrecy. They sign confidentiality agreements and access the syllabus and past exam papers in secure environments. This protects the integrity of the examination process.
- Focus on Objectivity: The goal of the question setters is to create papers that are objective, and balanced, and assess a candidate’s suitability for a career in civil service. They try to avoid ambiguity and ensure all questions have clear and well-defined answers.
- Keeping Up with the Times: The UPSC syllabus is dynamic, and the question setters ensure the papers reflect current events, national issues, and evolving trends in governance. This tests a candidate’s ability to think critically and apply their knowledge to contemporary challenges.
Must Read: Who takes UPSC Interview?
Targeted Preparation with UPSC Question Papers
Understanding the thought process behind the question setters and the answer to who sets UPSC question paper can be immensely helpful for UPSC aspirants. Here are some takeaways:
- Since the question setters follow the syllabus religiously, a thorough understanding of the prescribed topics is crucial.
- Solve previous years’ question papers to get a feel for the question style and level of difficulty.
- Keep yourself updated on current affairs and national issues.
- Don’t just memorize facts; focus on developing analytical and problem-solving skills to tackle complex questions.
Related Blogs
FAQs
UPSC question papers are framed by subject matter experts and experienced bureaucrats appointed by the Union Public Service Commission.
UPSC question papers are framed by subject matter experts and experienced bureaucrats appointed by the Union Public Service Commission.
UPSC questions are sourced from various academic materials, relevant textbooks, government reports, and contemporary issues.
UPSC exam question papers are prepared by a team of experts appointed by the Union Public Service Commission.
UPSC papers are evaluated by qualified and trained examiners selected by the Union Public Service Commission.
This was all about “Who Sets UPSC Question Paper?”. For more such informative blogs, check out our UPSC Exams Section, or you can learn more about us by visiting our Indian exams page.