Date:03/12/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/03/stories/2008120350600200.htm

Tamil Nadu - Madurai

“Indian Administrative Service remains the most challenging profession”

Staff Reporter

MADURAI: Students should become ‘impact makers’ in society for which Indian Administrative Service was the most challenging and attractive profession, said C. Umashankar, Managing Director, Arasu Cable TV Corporation Limited, on Monday.

Inaugurating the University Grants Commission-sponsored scheme for coaching classes for entry into Civil Services for Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and minority students at Fatima College here, Mr. Umashankar said that the former Prime Minster V. P. Singh, who passed away recently, should always be remembered as it was his efforts that saw the underprivileged, backward classes and minorities become part of the bureaucracy.

His interaction revolved around thoughts on Civil Services examinations.

Challenges and needs

He spoke about the challenges and needs on becoming an IAS officer.

Answering questions on why one should become an IAS officer, he related its importance to the credence it gave to impart social change and empowerment of women.

Touching various issues, he stressed upon the need for proper communication as it provided the proper gateway to reach the masses.

He gave tips and advice to the civil service aspirants on choosing the right subjects as optional papers and emphasised brushing up knowledge of economy, polity and current affairs.