Access to Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA): Restrictions and Alternative Ways

Aspiring civil servants often dream of enrolling in the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) to undergo rigorous training for various Indian civil services. However, to gain access to the academy, an individual must successfully clear the Civil Services Examination (CSE). This article explores the access and visitation policies of LBSNAA and an alternative way to see the campus grounds.

Why LBSNAA Cannot Be Visited Without Clearing CSE?

Visiting the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) is strictly prohibited for individuals who have not cleared the Civil Services Examination (CSE). This policy is in place because LBSNAA primarily serves as a training ground for candidates selected for prestigious civil services, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), and other related services. Those who have not passed the CSE are not eligible for admission to the academy.

Alternatives for Viewing the LBSNAA Campus

While direct visits to LBSNAA are restricted, there are alternative ways to explore the campus grounds. One notable method is to intern with the Civil Works Department of the Ministry of Urban Development (CPWD), specifically in the branch based in Mussoorie. As the CPWD office is situated in the LBSNAA campus, adjacent to the auditorium, visitors can access the area during working hours. Additionally, CPWD plays a crucial role in managing and maintaining the infrastructure within the academy, providing insight into the campus during your visit.

Personal Experience: Summer Internship at CPWD, Mussoorie

I had the opportunity to intern with CPWD, Mussoorie in the summer of 2015, and my experience was truly memorable. The academy's infrastructure and its well-maintained premises made it a splendid place to work in. As a loyal intern, I encountered the academy's stunning architecture, lush greenery, and organized facilities. Being part of the CPWD team provided me with a unique perspective on the maintenance and ongoing construction efforts within the academy.

Official Access Rules at LBSNAA

Officially, LBSNAA only allows certain categories of individuals to visit the campus:

Officers participating in the Foundation Course or any other courses offered at the academy. Family, friends, or acquaintances of officers currently undergoing training at the academy. Guest lecturers delivering lectures at the academy. Family, friends, or acquaintances of course faculty. Dignitaries, such as the Prime Minister, Home Minister, or Textile Minister, who may visit during significant events.

In these specific cases, visitors must be accompanied by a resident officer of the academy and obtain prior permission from security personnel at least three days in advance. Visitors are provided with a visitor card and must wear this identification during their stay in the academy. Even IAS officers face these restrictions after their training, requiring an acquaintance within the academy to facilitate visits.

Superstitions and Beliefs

Interestingly, despite the logical and official restrictions, some friends believe in superstitions that visiting the academy before selection brings bad luck. There are concerns that such visits may negatively impact one's chances of selection. It's a common belief among the candidates that visiting the academy increases the pressure and reduces the odds of securing a good selection. Consequently, many candidates, including myself, abstained from visiting the academy until their CSE results were officially announced.

Conclusion

While direct access to LBSNAA is restricted to those who have passed the Civil Services Examination, alternative routes exist, such as interning at the CPWD Mussoorie office. Understanding these access rules and respecting the policies in place ensures a productive and respectful experience for all.