PM Modi launches 'UPSC PRATIBHA Setu' portal in Mann Ki Baat for non-recommended candidates

UPSC PRATIBHA Setu

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the 125th episode of his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio program, launched the transformative UPSC Pratibha Setu portal. This digital initiative is designed to provide a career bridge for thousands of high-potential candidates who narrowly miss securing a position in the final merit list of India's toughest examinations.

Addressing the nation, PM Modi highlighted the dedication of UPSC aspirants. "UPSC conducts the Civil Services exam, one of the toughest exams in the country. There are thousands of such candidates who are very capable but are unable to reach the final list by a small margin," the Prime Minister stated. He emphasized that these individuals often have to start their preparation from scratch for other opportunities, costing them valuable time and resources. The Pratibha Setu portal is the government's solution to this challenge, directly connecting this untapped talent with potential employers.

What is the UPSC PRATIBHA Setu Portal?

Formerly known as the Public Disclosure Scheme (PDS), UPSC Pratibha Setu, which stands for Professional Resource And Talent Integration – Bridge for Hiring Aspirants, is a strategic portal managed by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

The platform serves as a dynamic database for "non-recommended willing candidates." These are individuals who have successfully cleared all the rigorous written stages of major UPSC examinations but were not included in the final recommendation list after the interview process. By registering on the portal, these candidates can consent to have their profiles accessed by verified organizations.

Which examinations are covered?

The portal encompasses a wide range of top-tier competitive exams, including:

• Civil Services Examination (IAS, IPS, etc.)
• Indian Forest Service Examination
• Engineering Services Examination
• Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS)
• Combined Medical Services Examination
• Central Armed Police Forces (ACs) Examination
• Indian Economic Service/Indian Statistical Service Examination
• Combined Geo-Scientist Examination

How does UPSC Pratibha Setu work?

The platform operates as a streamlined talent acquisition bridge:

For Candidates: Willing candidates who cleared the written exams but were not recommended are included in the database.

For Employers: Verified employers, including central ministries, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), Autonomous Bodies, and crucially, Private Sector companies, can register on the portal through a dedicated login ID provided by the UPSC. Private organisations can also self-register.

The Connection: Registered organisations can access the profiles of these pre-vetted, highly capable candidates for voluntary recruitment, effectively bypassing the initial, lengthy screening processes.

The UPSC Pratibha Setu portal addresses a critical gap in the employment ecosystem. It recognizes that clearing the UPSC written exam is a monumental achievement in itself, signifying exceptional knowledge, perseverance, and analytical ability.

This initiative provides a "second gateway for UPSC aspirants to shine," ensuring their hard work does not go unrecognized. For employers, it offers direct access to a pool of talent that has already proven its mettle against one of the world's most challenging selection processes.