The Centre should desist from the move to >lower the age limit for civil services aspirants (Nov.18). Nearly six lakh students write this examination every year and most of them are from poor socio-economic backgrounds and who often think about the civil services after completing post graduation. The civil services is no mere career option. The age limit now, of 30 for the unreserved category and 33 for OBCs, was arrived at after much clamour.
Let us not think of moves to scuttle the chances of those trying hard for the most coveted job.
Shajimon Purushothaman,
Cherthala, Kerala
This is the second time in recent months that the UPSC examination is courting controversy; earlier it was regarding the structure and English language option. The enormity of the syllabus is daunting. A science graduate needs to study history and economics while an arts graduate needs to know general science and commerce. Preparation for such a vast curriculum requires an ample amount of time. Further, not all candidates crack the exam at the very first attempt. Many need to work and support themselves financially. Please do not clip the wings of young aspirants like me who want to get selected or rejected on the basis of our merit and not on aspects which are beyond our control.
Dwaipayan Chakraborty,
Kolkata
The move may be a right step in trying to get young minds as good administrators. However, it should not be forgotten that the government is trying to implement the recommendations of the Kiran Aggarwal Committee — to reduce the duration of training. In sum these two steps are bound to affect candidates in learning the fundamentals of administration.
Navin Katyal,
New Delhi
