Maharashtra’s Contribution To Nation Significant: Union Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar
Felicitation Of Successful UPSC Candidates; State Schemes Boost Marathi Representation In Civil Services
New Delhi, August 21: Union Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar praised Maharashtra’s enduring contribution to India’s growth, citing its rich saint tradition and social-cultural synthesis. Speaking at a felicitation ceremony for successful UPSC candidates from Maharashtra (2024 batch), Kumar said he expects the newly appointed officers to carry forward this legacy with commitment.
The event, organised by the “Pudche Paul” (Next Step) initiative, was held at the packed NDMC Convention Hall, where around 40 successful candidates were honoured. Alongside felicitations, the programme included guidance sessions for aspirants preparing for future civil service examinations.
Key Highlights Of The Ceremony
The event was attended by ADG Anupama Chandra (SSB), ADG Padmakar Ranpise (CISF), former diplomat and Pudche Paul founder Dnyaneshwar Mule, Joint Secretary Anand Patil (Education Ministry), Finance Member Rekha Raikar (Land Ports Authority), and Maharashtra Sadan Secretary R. Vimala, among others.
- Sanjay Kumar lauded Maharashtra’s role as a guiding force for the nation, adding that other states should emulate its support structures for aspirants. He described the UPSC exam as a test of grit, urging successful candidates to make positive contributions to nation-building.
- CISF ADG Padmakar Ranpise advised aspirants to focus on health, discipline, and humility, drawing inspiration from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
- SSB ADG Anupama Nilekar stressed the importance of self-analysis, group discussions, and fallback career options for aspirants.
- Dnyaneshwar Mule shared insights from his career and highlighted Pudche Paul’s efforts over seven years to honour new officers and maintain ties with aspirants in Maharashtra and abroad.
- Guidance sessions also focused on the role of artificial intelligence, cultural roots, and adaptability for officers entering service.
Maharashtra Government’s Strong Support
The state has been actively working to increase Marathi representation (“Marathi Tappa”) in civil services through schemes run by BARTI, SARTHI, MahaJyoti, and RTI, providing scholarships to diverse communities.
Additional support includes:
- Free interview halls at Maharashtra Sadan for candidates who clear the UPSC mains.
- Free accommodation for seven days at Maharashtra Sadan for candidates appearing in UPSC interviews and medical tests.
These sustained efforts have contributed to a steady rise in the number of Marathi candidates entering the Indian civil services.