Passing the UPSC as a Hindi Medium Student: A Journey from Hindustani to English
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations are highly competitive and require rigorous preparation and dedication. While many candidates opt for their primary language—Hindi for many in India—there have been instances where students who studied in Hindi medium schools have successfully passed the UPSC exams in the English medium. This article explores the challenges, strategies, and success stories of candidates who transitioned from Hindi to English for their UPSC preparation.
Understanding the UPSC Examination
One of the misconceptions in the educational environment is the idea that the medium of instruction during schooling significantly impacts one's ability to pass the UPSC examinations. In reality, the medium of the examination is a matter of personal choice and is entirely flexible. Due to the availability of resources, study materials, and coaching centers in the English language, many candidates opt for this medium.
The success in the UPSC examinations is more about effective preparation, understanding the syllabus, and consistent effort rather than being proficient in a particular language from school. Candidates often work on improving their English language skills through intensive reading, writing practice, and engaging with English-language resources to perform well in the examination.
Success Stories of Hindi Medium Students
There have been numerous success stories of students who transitioned to the English language for their UPSC preparation, even when they studied in Hindi medium schools. One particularly inspiring example is from 2014 when a group of girls who qualified for the UPSC examination with top ranks included a girl who studied from a Hindi medium school. This demonstrates that with dedication and hard work, success is achievable even if your educational background was primarily in Hindi.
One of the authors of this piece was in a Hindi medium till 6th class and then switched to a semi-English medium until 8th class. While they still love to read and write in Hindi and preferred to communicate in Hindi, they took the UPSC written exam in English. Another personal anecdote is of a friend named Gaurav Singh Sobarwal, who inspired recognition. Last year, he achieved a 98 rank and joined as an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, and this year, he secured a 46 rank to become an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer. He transitioned from Hindi medium to English medium for his UPSC exam.
Breaking Barriers with Dedication and Effort
The examples of these individuals highlight that everything is possible with dedication and effort. It is important to recognize that the medium of instruction during schooling does not determine one's success in the UPSC examinations. People with diverse educational backgrounds, including those who studied in Hindi medium schools, have successfully passed the UPSC and are now well-respected officers in the Indian Civil Services.
While transitioning to the English medium for the UPSC can be challenging, with consistent practice and resource utilization, candidates can excel in the examination. It is essential to embrace the learning process and adapt to the new language with diligence and perseverance. The key to success lies in understanding the examination pattern, mastering the English language, and continuously refining one's preparation strategies.
In conclusion, candidates should not be limited by their past educational experiences. With dedication, hard work, and the right resources, it is entirely possible to excel in the UPSC exams regardless of their primary language of education. Jai Hind.