Why UPSC Toppers Are Primarily English Medium Students?

Introduction

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams are a critical milestone for students aspiring to join prestigious government positions in India. The majority of these students, especially among the top performers, are English medium learners. This article delves into the reasons behind this trend and explores how language, primarily English, influences the success of UPSC aspirants.

The Role of Standard Materials

Standard Materials: The primary source materials for UPSC preparation, such as newspapers like The Hindu, Indian Express, and Economic Survey, are predominantly published in English. Textbooks like M Laxmikant, Ramesh Singh, and others, which are crucial for comprehensive study, are also originally authored in English. The prevalence of these English resources significantly impacts the preparation and success of UPSC aspirants.

Coaching Institutes and Teaching Style

Coaching Institutes: Leading coaching institutes for UPSC preparation, such as those recognized for subjects like Ethics, Public Administration (PSIR), Sociology, and others, have predominantly English-speaking teachers. For instance, Manoj Jha for Ethics, Shubhra Ranjan for Economics, Piyush Chaubey for PSIR, Upendra Gaur for Sociology, and others are all known for delivering their classes in English. This trend reflects the widespread use and preference for English in UPSC-related education.

Colleges and Universities

Top Educational Institutions: Prestigious colleges and universities like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) primarily provide education in English. These institutions serve as a grounding for many students who eventually appear for UPSC exams. Graduates from these English-medium institutions often carry their language proficiency into their UPSC preparation, providing them with an added advantage.

Private Sector Demand

Private Sector Favorability: The private sector widely demands English proficiency, which prompts many aspirants to take risks and invest significant effort into UPSC preparation. Even with reasonable backup plans in place, many students feel confident in their English abilities, making it easier for them to focus on their UPSC goals.

Conclusion

While hard work and determination are undoubtedly crucial, the availability of English-language materials, coupled with the teaching style and structure within leading coaching institutes and top universities, largely contributes to the dominance of English medium students in UPSC success. Recognizing and addressing this gap through additional resources and support for Hindi medium students can help create a more balanced and inclusive environment for all UPSC aspirants.