Name:- PYTHAGORAS PATEL
Date: 10/02/2026
Afternoon session, 3rd to go
Board:- Dinesh Dasa sir
DAF: BUNDELKHAND, ANTHROPOLOGY, UTTAR PRADESH, WATCHING TEST CRICKET AND BADMINTON , ENVIRONMENT AND WATER MINISTER IN STUDENT PARLIAMENT, BHUTAN (Rest not asked)

CHAIRMAN
1. Aap Hindi medium se schooling kiye hai, aap apna parichay kaise dena chahenge?

2. Why Bundelkhand was not made a separate state during state reorganization 1956?
3. Did Bundelkhand had any princely states when we got independence ?
4. At different times, bundelkhand had different centres of culture , what was the reason?
5. What about now, UP being such a big state of around 25 crore population, is it high time we should divide it in 3 4 parts?

6. There are three approaches of tribal devlopment in india- isolation, assimilation and integration. Who proposed these approaches and what different ideas they had?
7. Which approach we follow or should follow to mainstream them and devlop them?

MEMBER 1
1. Your hobby is watching test cricket? Why is it so? Do you think it is superior form of cricket or any other reason behind that?
2. Unlike cricket which after t20 cricket, it got commercialized as well as expanded to masses, why badminton didnt grow as much as the cricket?
3. We could have started IPL like tournament again (mentioned PBL in last answer) as we are performing well and won medals in Olympic that is defining moment in badminton (In last answer I said we didn't had any groundbreaking moment like 1983 world cup in badminton until 2012 medal)
4. Do you think we are performing as good as cricket in badminton?

5. You were Envt and Water minsiter in student parliament, we often talk about protecting envt which is air water soil in general terms, why we should protect it?
6. Suatinable devlopment is another thing, what if we dont want to protect it , it's our choice after all (i mentioned sustainable devlopment and moral responsibility in last answer )
7. What direct implications we would have if we don't protect it ( i took time for thinking, chairman sir said to move ahead to next member)


MEMBER 2
1. DO you know about 73rd and 74th constituational amendment. Have you read them?
2. Are these applicable in tribal areas?
3. How do we govern tribal areas then?
4. If you are made tribal secretary, how would extend a panchayat like system in tribal and scheduled areas of MP and Chattisgarh?
5. What are the problems in PESA and FRA (mentioned PESA and FRA in last answer)

6. What is the difference between all india services and central services?
7. Should we change IAS IPS as central services now?

8. You must know about postal service. Are post office still relevant in the age of email and whatsapp and should we shut them down?
(Chairman sir stopped him after this que and said next member to ask)

MEMBER 3
1. In tribal regions , Andman is very important place.What are the tribes there and what are their demographic and devlopmental situation?
2. Their population has been declining, how would you tackle it ?
3. They need health interventions and livelihood. I agree but they are completely isolated. It is very difficult to reach them let alone any devlopmental work.
( I got stuck in this answer, chairman sir said next member to ask )

Member 4
1. You have Bhutan in your daf , do you know what is GNH concept?
2. How many pillars are there in the GNH?
3. Should india seriously consider following the GNH model for devlopment?

Chairman sir stopped him after this answer and said -
Okay Thank you Patel , your interview is over.

Board was cordial and made me very comfortable and it felt more like conversation than interview. Complete opposite of mock interview.

Mocks: Around 13
Sankalp (similar to real one), Vajirao and reddy Unacademy
Thanks to quantel for arranging many online and offline panel and o2o mocks

Time:- around 27 to 30 minutes

Name : Patria o Muerte
Date :  05/02/2026, Afternoon
Board : BB Swain sir
DAF Keywords : Bcom , Anthropology , CAPF AC , Kerala , sketching , Strength training , mobile photography.

Chairperson

1. Tribal paintings in India ?

M1 ( female )

1. Why people are feared to deposit in Banks ?
2. Mule accounts ?
3. China's threat to the world ?
4. Why US plan to annex Greenland ?
5. Golden dome ( follow up )
6. China's threat to US ?

M2

   1.Adaptation financing?
2. COP 30 @ Brussels ? ( Wrong Q )
3. Children suicide, measures?

M3

   1.Which phone is best for Photography?
2. Mule account ?
3. Promoter company vs Company distributed shared publicly?

M4

1. Growth inflation trade off
2. Inflation? Rate ? CPI vs WPI
3. RBI measures during inflation?
4. Economic growth ?
5. US FTA issues ?
6. How india should deal with US prohibiting Russian oil purchase.


Chairperson,

Anything to Ask , your interview is over .

Mocks : Fortune IAS , Pathways IAS , State CS Academy , Amrita IAS , Lead IAS, Samkalp IAS , Xylem IAS ,Pala CS Academy , Sankar IAS
( Kerala )

Spl thanks to Quantel for arranging various Mocks

O2O : KylasNath , Jithin sir ( Lead ), Achuth sir ( fortune ) , Sunil George sir , Shinas sir ( Ilearn ).

Name: Luna
Date : 19.01.2026(FN)
Board : Suman Sharma mam
DAF Keywords: Forestry, Tamil Nadu, hobbies(ball badminton, bird watching)
Chairman
1. How to pronounce your name? What is the meaning?
2. Ok. You are associated with Nilgiris hills, tell me another mountain range that is under threat? ( I said the Aravalli range mam) She asked could you be aware of what are issues in that Aravalli range ?
3. As a forestry graduate could you agree with the definition ?
4. Is the definition for different forest types and different ranges necessary or does it cause any environmental concerns?
5. why SC verdict is important in this matter?
6. As a forestry graduate, you have any other solutions to protect the Aravalli range from mining?
7. How to tackle illegal mining suppose you're posted in the Aravalli range?
8. If the people in the area support illegal miners, then how could you handle the situation and how will you solve the issue?
9. After your graduation, what would you do ? job or any other things.
10. What is the difference between Tamil Nadu and Goa in coastal development? Is Tamil Nadu has longer coastal line than Goa , why Goa has more beaches
11. What are the major activities along the coastal line of Tamil Nadu?

Member 1
1. As India is developing nations, we aspiring for development activities which may contradict with environmental conservation. What is your view on that?
2. Suppose we need coal for our energy source, could we go for the forest to exploit coal or for import. Which is feasible ?
3. In Tamil Nadu, what is the major coal type that present ?
4. Where is that present and (some questions related to that like major coal mines, coal areas in India)
5. How lignite differs from other types?
(One question I'm unable to recall)

Member 2(female)
1. As you mentioned EIA(previous answer) , why it is needed?
2. But it is not efficient in ground level as it mentioned in the act. What is the difference between the provision and the ground reality ?
3. Even though renewable energy causes some environmental issues. Could you mention some issues
4. What are the subjects you covered in your graduation and what is your favourite ?
5. Tell me how many bird species till now extinct ?
6. Is ball badminton different from badminton (she mentioned one game, that I never heard)

Member 3
1. Is there any legal law in the United States to arrest the Venezuela president? If yes what is the legal status ?
2. Long monologue about Operation Sindoor and asked about India stand in this matter differ from earlier stand towards Pakistan.
(1- 2 questions unable to recall it)

Member 4
1. Asking about forest waste and related produce?
2. How it may be useful for humans?
3. About carbon credits and related discussion?
4. Tell me one issue between Tamil Nadu and its neighbouring state? ( I told Cauvery issue)
5. What is the current status and why does it get delayed?
6. What is the supreme court recent verdict about the sharing of water?
Chairman : Thank you.
Overall, it is nice experience.
Time: Approx 30 mins
Mocks : Aram IAS Academy, Naan mudhalvan, Sankalp academy.

Name: Chester Bennington
11 feb, afternoon, 3rd to go.
Board: - Shri Dinesh Dasa sir

Keywords: jalgaon, Maharashtra, hindi pop singing, aerospace, UAV, Flight documentaries, geography optional (nothing else from daf).

Chairman:
1) Jalgaon me Jal nahi hai, who is the man who tried to solve the problem of water for farmers in jalgaon, india (late shri bhavarlal jainji, jain irrigation)
2) how they work? What are they doing now?
3) ek hindi pop sunado gake
4) bollywood uses folk songs, music but doesn't pay them. What to be done? Is anything going in this regard?
5) creative economy what is it
6) 3 kartavyas in economic survey
7) glassknots and perestroika have you heard of them? What china learnt for USSR

M1:
1) what is required to settle in space?
2) nobel laureates from India and Indian origin
3) despite huge population and different categories of prices why we are not able to win nobel.
4) anything going for curiosity based learning in India, progress in NEP in this regard.

M2:
1) why farmers suicides
2) opinion about cotton import from USA
3) it will increase farmer suicide? Now what is view?
4) you are a DM mla comes to you complaining Mayor is not working what will you do?
5) you are SP, you get complaint about corruption, what will you do?

M3:
1) pilotless combat. What is future?
2) Due to H1B restrictions, brain gain. What government should do?
3) did work in UAVs so why not going there? Wasting talent here.
4) India semiconductor mission.
5) shall we create NRI city ? Is it possible?

M3:
1) any initiatives for promotion of Hindi internationally?
2) flight MH370 crash, why happened? What should be done to prevent this?

Chairman sir: anything you would like to say? I said thanks for giving opportunity to sing. He is like Beta you earned it and by that you gave us employment 😂.

Conversation mode. Chill and relax.

27 mocks including 4 peer mocks, 2 online mocks. Thanks to Quentel for arranging mocks around 10 to 12 of them like AlS ias, Sriram, raja sir cracking ias, keystone ias, ensure ias.

Drishti Ias, next ias, Samkalp great experience with good questions.

Thanks tou upwise for arranging 4 mocks. Had opportunity to sit with Vinod Zutshi sir, Aradhna mam both former board members.

Special thanks to Shri Vivek Jain Sir from Jaipur for daf related preparation.

UPSC Interview Transcript

Board: Sheel Vardhan Sir
Date: 12/02/2026- Afternoon

Keywords: Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, Cashew Farming, Kathak, Lavani, Writing Quotes and Poetry, Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering, Sociology, MIT Pune, Magazine Editor, Cultural Club Head

I entered the board and greeted all the members.
---

Chairperson

1. Your name has a connection with ancient literature. Do you know about this?


2. What about the Aranyakas and the Upanishads?


3. You were an editor for a college magazine. Do you read newspapers?


4. I am making a statement. Can you elaborate on this?

“The sports page of a newspaper reflects the full truth, the editorial page reflects half the truth, whereas the front page reflects minimum truth.”

(Some discussion followed.)


5. As your hobby is writing quotes, tell me one quote that guides you.

I said:
“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.”


6. How would you be a “rainbow” as a District Magistrate?


7. Which scheme, according to you, has the potential to be a rainbow?

I said VB GRAM G — because poverty is the darkest cloud of all, and the scheme provides dignity and meaningful work opportunities.
(He was nodding and appreciating in between.)


8. Define folk dance.

Member 2 (Lady Member)

1. You perform Kathak. Would you be okay if fusion dance forms are performed?


2. After I replied that as long as the philosophical core principles and techniques remain intact, innovation is acceptable, she again asked:
Would you still be okay with fusion?

3. You are a poet. Are poets observant individuals or social reformers?

4. Give one example to support your argument.

I cited Savitribai Phule and her literary work Bawankashi Subodh Ratnakar.

5. You have studied Sociology. Which concept do you find most useful?

I spoke about Social Facts.

Member 3

1. Taking a cue from the last discussion, did you take Sociology only from an exam perspective?

I explained my rationale.

2. You are an Electronics and Telecommunication engineer. Don’t you think an engineering degree certificate is merely a piece of paper?
(He was nodding in agreement in between.)

3. Why are there so many engineering colleges and high enrolment in states like Maharashtra and Karnataka, especially from a sociological point of view?

I spoke about the rise in aspirations and the preference for professional degrees.

4. He mentioned that in many Western countries, Electrical and Electronics syllabi are integrated, which is not the case in India.
Have you read the Electrical syllabus?

I replied in the negative.
He said, “No issues, it’s okay.”

5. This is a personality test—do you want us to know you more, or to test you?

I said that I would like them to know me more, and in that process, they would also test me.
(He smiled slightly.)

Member 4

1. You perform Lavani. It is a very energetic dance form. What does Lavani express?


2. What do you like about this dance form?


3. Suppose you help someone, but that person is neither grateful nor reciprocative. How would you express this through Lavani?

I said that I would first need to write a Lavani song to express that feeling, but in life, I do not let such experiences affect my helping nature—I continue doing my part.

He said, “Excellent, on that part.”


4. Describe Kanhoji Angre.
(Reference: Sindhudurg Fort)


5. Further discussion followed on the Marathas and his role in shipbuilding.


6. You are engaged in an exciting activity like cashew farming. Why, then, put in such hard work for civil services?( All of them exchanged smile among themselves)

Member 5

1. What is the percentage of protein in cashews?

2. What are the benefits of nuts like almonds and cashews?

3. What is a balanced diet?

4. Are you having a balanced diet these days?

I replied that I had one when I was at home, but since shifting to Delhi, the balance has been disturbed.

5. What is junk food?

6. What are its ill effects?

7. Should we ban all advertisements promoting junk food?

8. What can be done to control the spread of junk food?

9. Define culture.

10. Define Western culture. What are its traits, and why is it called so?

11. Tell me three women from
Maharashtra who inspire you.

I spoke about Savitribai Phule, Sindhutai Sapkal, and K. Majulaxmi (former Collector of my district).

The board member sitting next to him exclaimed, “All women?”
The member clarified that he was specifically asking about women.

12. You have a hobby of writing poems. Do you take time, or can you compose one on the spot?

I said that generally, I take time.

13. Can you write one now?

I asked if I could try writing a quote instead of a poem.
They agreed and allowed me to take my time using pen and paper.

While I was thinking, the Chairperson stood up to drink water.
When I looked up, he waited and asked if I was ready.

I said, “Yes, sir.”

My quote was:

> “She was smiling because her strength was born out of the storms she survived.”

All members smiled and acknowledged it.
The Chairperson said that it was very quick.

Another member then said in Marathi:
“Jastich kadak zala ka interview?”
( May be he co related the term Storm with the interview )

I was surprised to hear Marathi from him, as I had assumed he was Punjabi (since he was wearing a turban). I asked him again to confirm it, and we smiled.

The Chairperson then said:
“It was great talking to you. You can leave now.”

I thanked them all and left.

It was a conversational interview.
All board member seemed genuinely interested in conversation.

Guidance Taken:

1. One-to-one discussion with Anupam Jain Sir (Smartwork Labs)

He acted as a “calm in chaos,” helping me focus on what was truly needed and not get lost in clutter.

He hand-held me right from deciding the entries to be filled in the DAF.

We had detailed one-to-one discussions on each aspect of my DAF.

He guided me to think in the right direction, which significantly improved the quality and clarity of my answers.

Especially, discussions on my hobbies—particularly writing quotes—helped me a lot.

His trust in me strengthened my self-belief and helped me remain confident during the interview.

2. Pranay Agarwal Sir (IAS Gurukul)

Conducted detailed DAF-based questioning.
Very encouraging overall and helped boost confidence.

3. Mahesh Bhagwat Sir

Helped me prepare DAF-based questions in a more structured and focused manner.

Mock Interviews:

(Arranged from best to average)

1. Maharashtra Sadan (best of them all)

2. Study IQ (Khemka Sir–led panel)

3. Unacademy

4. Chanakya Mandal Pariwar

5. Quantel – SPM Academy

6. Next IAS

7. Vajiram and Ravi

8. Vajirao and Reddy

9. PW Only IAS

10. Sankalp IAS

11. Quantel – Raj Malhotra Institute

Discussions with my peer group helped me improve my expression and gain new perspectives
Best wishes to all! 🌸

UPSC Interview Transcript

Board: Sheel Vardhan Sir
Date: 12/02/2026- Afternoon

Keywords: Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, Cashew Farming, Kathak, Lavani, Writing Quotes and Poetry, Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering, Sociology, MIT Pune, Magazine Editor, Cultural Club Head

I entered the board and greeted all the members.
---

Chairperson

1. Your name has a connection with ancient literature. Do you know about this?


2. What about the Aranyakas and the Upanishads?


3. You were an editor for a college magazine. Do you read newspapers?


4. I am making a statement. Can you elaborate on this?

“The sports page of a newspaper reflects the full truth, the editorial page reflects half the truth, whereas the front page reflects minimum truth.”

(Some discussion followed.)


5. As your hobby is writing quotes, tell me one quote that guides you.

I said:
“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.”


6. How would you be a “rainbow” as a District Magistrate?


7. Which scheme, according to you, has the potential to be a rainbow?

I said VB GRAM G — because poverty is the darkest cloud of all, and the scheme provides dignity and meaningful work opportunities.
(He was nodding and appreciating in between.)


8. Define folk dance.

Member 2 (Lady Member)

1. You perform Kathak. Would you be okay if fusion dance forms are performed?


2. After I replied that as long as the philosophical core principles and techniques remain intact, innovation is acceptable, she again asked:
Would you still be okay with fusion?

3. You are a poet. Are poets observant individuals or social reformers?

4. Give one example to support your argument.

I cited Savitribai Phule and her literary work Bawankashi Subodh Ratnakar.

5. You have studied Sociology. Which concept do you find most useful?

I spoke about Social Facts.

Member 3

1. Taking a cue from the last discussion, did you take Sociology only from an exam perspective?

I explained my rationale.

2. You are an Electronics and Telecommunication engineer. Don’t you think an engineering degree certificate is merely a piece of paper?
(He was nodding in agreement in between.)

3. Why are there so many engineering colleges and high enrolment in states like Maharashtra and Karnataka, especially from a sociological point of view?

I spoke about the rise in aspirations and the preference for professional degrees.

4. He mentioned that in many Western countries, Electrical and Electronics syllabi are integrated, which is not the case in India.
Have you read the Electrical syllabus?

I replied in the negative.
He said, “No issues, it’s okay.”

5. This is a personality test—do you want us to know you more, or to test you?

I said that I would like them to know me more, and in that process, they would also test me.
(He smiled slightly.)

Member 4

1. You perform Lavani. It is a very energetic dance form. What does Lavani express?


2. What do you like about this dance form?


3. Suppose you help someone, but that person is neither grateful nor reciprocative. How would you express this through Lavani?

I said that I would first need to write a Lavani song to express that feeling, but in life, I do not let such experiences affect my helping nature—I continue doing my part.

He said, “Excellent, on that part.”


4. Describe Kanhoji Angre.
(Reference: Sindhudurg Fort)


5. Further discussion followed on the Marathas and his role in shipbuilding.


6. You are engaged in an exciting activity like cashew farming. Why, then, put in such hard work for civil services?( All of them exchanged smile among themselves)

Member 5

1. What is the percentage of protein in cashews?

2. What are the benefits of nuts like almonds and cashews?

3. What is a balanced diet?

4. Are you having a balanced diet these days?

I replied that I had one when I was at home, but since shifting to Delhi, the balance has been disturbed.

5. What is junk food?

6. What are its ill effects?

7. Should we ban all advertisements promoting junk food?

8. What can be done to control the spread of junk food?

9. Define culture.

10. Define Western culture. What are its traits, and why is it called so?

11. Tell me three women from
Maharashtra who inspire you.

I spoke about Savitribai Phule, Sindhutai Sapkal, and K. Majulaxmi (former Collector of my district).

The board member sitting next to him exclaimed, “All women?”
The member clarified that he was specifically asking about women.

12. You have a hobby of writing poems. Do you take time, or can you compose one on the spot?

I said that generally, I take time.

13. Can you write one now?

I asked if I could try writing a quote instead of a poem.
They agreed and allowed me to take my time using pen and paper.

While I was thinking, the Chairperson stood up to drink water.
When I looked up, he waited and asked if I was ready.

I said, “Yes, sir.”

My quote was:

> “She was smiling because her strength was born out of the storms she survived.”

All members smiled and acknowledged it.
The Chairperson said that it was very quick.

Another member then said in Marathi:
“Jastich kadak zala ka interview?”
( May be he co related the term Storm with the interview )

I was surprised to hear Marathi from him, as I had assumed he was Punjabi (since he was wearing a turban). I asked him again to confirm it, and we smiled.

The Chairperson then said:
“It was great talking to you. You can leave now.”

I thanked them all and left.

It was a conversational interview.
All board member seemed genuinely interested in conversation.

Guidance Taken:

1. One-to-one discussion with Anupam Jain Sir (Smartwork Labs)

He acted as a “calm in chaos,” helping me focus on what was truly needed and not get lost in clutter.

He hand-held me right from deciding the entries to be filled in the DAF.

We had detailed one-to-one discussions on each aspect of my DAF.

He guided me to think in the right direction, which significantly improved the quality and clarity of my answers.

Especially, discussions on my hobbies—particularly writing quotes—helped me a lot.

His trust in me strengthened my self-belief and helped me remain confident during the interview.

2. Pranay Agarwal Sir (IAS Gurukul)

Conducted detailed DAF-based questioning.
Very encouraging overall and helped boost confidence.

3. Mahesh Bhagwat Sir

Helped me prepare DAF-based questions in a more structured and focused manner.

Mock Interviews:

(Arranged from best to average)

1. Maharashtra Sadan (best of them all)

2. Study IQ (Khemka Sir–led panel)

3. Unacademy

4. Chanakya Mandal Pariwar

5. Quantel – SPM Academy

6. Next IAS

7. Vajiram and Ravi

8. Vajirao and Reddy

9. PW Only IAS

10. Sankalp IAS

11. Quantel – Raj Malhotra Institute

Discussions with my peer group helped me improve my expression and gain new perspectives
Best wishes to all! 🌸

Breadnrose
Daf - Chhattisgarh, bollywood music, civil engineering, mess secretary
Sujata ma’am, first to go
1. What is special about today
Discussion on Sevateerth and kartavya bhavan + why today?
2. ⁠ever been to a govt office ?
Measures to improve service delivery
Long discussion
M1
1. Sonhat (chhattisgarh district) clean drinking water supply initiative by an officer
2. ⁠coal mine areas - sanitation and clean drinking water, what measures will you take
3. ⁠weaver kosa silk discussion - life of a weaver - no clue

M2
1. Bangladesh relations
2. ⁠BNP, Taliban and Jamat-e-islami
3. ⁠civil - retrofitting, sevateerth, kartavya bhavan
4. ⁠old bollywood songs - why old? Evolution of bollywood music
M3
Mess discussion, learning, how to implement in government mess
Joke bhi tha ek - mess me perks - tasting menu, different food items I had to taste check - everyone started laughing

M4
Superstition, why we believe, what are the pitfalls
Tonhi pratadna adhiniyam (Chhattisgarh specific)

Mocks - quantel mocks (special mention to Shivin sir(not Saarthi one), he helped me through out the journey)
NextIas, Samkalp, khan sir 1:1 (the best), Vinay sir 1:1 (Insights Ias, very critical questions), Vajiram, Vajirao, rest quantel mocks

Name : Patria o Muerte
Date :  05/02/2026, Afternoon
Board : BB Swain sir
DAF Keywords : Bcom , Anthropology , CAPF AC , Kerala , sketching , Strength training , mobile photography.

Chairperson

1. Tribal paintings in India ?

M1 ( female )

1. Why people are feared to deposit in Banks ?
2. Mule accounts ?
3. China's threat to the world ?
4. Why US plan to annex Greenland ?
5. Golden dome ( follow up )
6. China's threat to US ?

M2

1.Adaptation financing?
2. COP 30 @ Brussels ? ( Wrong Q )
3. Children suicide, measures?

M3

1.Which phone is best for Photography?
2. Mule account ?
3. Promoter company vs Company distributed shared publicly?

M4

1. Growth inflation trade off
2. Inflation? Rate ? CPI vs WPI
3. RBI measures during inflation?
4. Economic growth ?
5. US FTA issues ?
6. How india should deal with US prohibiting Russian oil purchase.


Chairperson,

Anything to Ask , your interview is over .

Mocks : Fortune IAS , Pathways IAS , State CS Academy , Amrita IAS , Lead IAS, Samkalp IAS , Xylem IAS ,Pala CS Academy , Sankar IAS
( Kerala )

Spl thanks to Quantel for arranging various Mocks

O2O : KylasNath , Jithin sir ( Lead ), Achuth sir ( fortune ) , Sunil George sir , Shinas sir ( Ilearn ).

Name:- PYTHAGORAS PATEL
Date: 10/02/2026
Afternoon session, 3rd to go
Board:- Dinesh Dasa sir
DAF: BUNDELKHAND, ANTHROPOLOGY, UTTAR PRADESH, WATCHING TEST CRICKET AND BADMINTON , ENVIRONMENT AND WATER MINISTER IN STUDENT PARLIAMENT, BHUTAN (Rest not asked)

CHAIRMAN
1. Aap Hindi medium se schooling kiye hai, aap apna parichay kaise dena chahenge?

2. Why Bundelkhand was not made a separate state during state reorganization 1956?
3. Did Bundelkhand had any princely states when we got independence ?
4. At different times, bundelkhand had different centres of culture , what was the reason?
5. What about now, UP being such a big state of around 25 crore population, is it high time we should divide it in 3 4 parts?

6. There are three approaches of tribal devlopment in india- isolation, assimilation and integration. Who proposed these approaches and what different ideas they had?
7. Which approach we follow or should follow to mainstream them and devlop them?

MEMBER 1
1. Your hobby is watching test cricket? Why is it so? Do you think it is superior form of cricket or any other reason behind that?
2. Unlike cricket which after t20 cricket, it got commercialized as well as expanded to masses, why badminton didnt grow as much as the cricket?
3. We could have started IPL like tournament again (mentioned PBL in last answer) as we are performing well and won medals in Olympic that is defining moment in badminton (In last answer I said we didn't had any groundbreaking moment like 1983 world cup in badminton until 2012 medal)
4. Do you think we are performing as good as cricket in badminton?

5. You were Envt and Water minsiter in student parliament, we often talk about protecting envt which is air water soil in general terms, why we should protect it?
6. Suatinable devlopment is another thing, what if we dont want to protect it , it's our choice after all (i mentioned sustainable devlopment and moral responsibility in last answer )
7. What direct implications we would have if we don't protect it ( i took time for thinking, chairman sir said to move ahead to next member)


MEMBER 2
1. DO you know about 73rd and 74th constituational amendment. Have you read them?
2. Are these applicable in tribal areas?
3. How do we govern tribal areas then?
4. If you are made tribal secretary, how would extend a panchayat like system in tribal and scheduled areas of MP and Chattisgarh?
5. What are the problems in PESA and FRA (mentioned PESA and FRA in last answer)

6. What is the difference between all india services and central services?
7. Should we change IAS IPS as central services now?

8. You must know about postal service. Are post office still relevant in the age of email and whatsapp and should we shut them down?
(Chairman sir stopped him after this que and said next member to ask)

MEMBER 3
1. In tribal regions , Andman is very important place.What are the tribes there and what are their demographic and devlopmental situation?
2. Their population has been declining, how would you tackle it ?
3. They need health interventions and livelihood. I agree but they are completely isolated. It is very difficult to reach them let alone any devlopmental work.
( I got stuck in this answer, chairman sir said next member to ask )

Member 4
1. You have Bhutan in your daf , do you know what is GNH concept?
2. How many pillars are there in the GNH?
3. Should india seriously consider following the GNH model for devlopment?

Chairman sir stopped him after this answer and said -
Okay Thank you Patel , your interview is over.

Board was cordial and made me very comfortable and it felt more like conversation than interview. Complete opposite of mock interview.

Mocks: Around 13
Sankalp (similar to real one), Vajirao and reddy Unacademy
Thanks to quantel for arranging many online and offline panel and o2o mocks

Time:- adound 27 to 30 minutes

Name: Luna
Date : 19.01.2026(FN)
Board : Suman Sharma mam
DAF Keywords: Forestry, Tamil Nadu, hobbies(ball badminton, bird watching)
Chairman
1. How to pronounce your name? What is the meaning?
2. Ok. You are associated with Nilgiris hills, tell me another mountain range that is under threat? ( I said the Aravalli range mam) She asked could you be aware of what are issues in that Aravalli range ?
3. As a forestry graduate could you agree with the definition ?
4. Is the definition for different forest types and different ranges necessary or does it cause any environmental concerns?
5. why SC verdict is important in this matter?
6. As a forestry graduate, you have any other solutions to protect the Aravalli range from mining?
7. How to tackle illegal mining suppose you're posted in the Aravalli range?
8. If the people in the area support illegal miners, then how could you handle the situation and how will you solve the issue?
9. After your graduation, what would you do ? job or any other things.
10. What is the difference between Tamil Nadu and Goa in coastal development? Is Tamil Nadu has longer coastal line than Goa , why Goa has more beaches
11. What are the major activities along the coastal line of Tamil Nadu?

Member 1
1. As India is developing nations, we aspiring for development activities which may contradict with environmental conservation. What is your view on that?
2. Suppose we need coal for our energy source, could we go for the forest to exploit coal or for import. Which is feasible ?
3. In Tamil Nadu, what is the major coal type that present ?
4. Where is that present and (some questions related to that like major coal mines, coal areas in India)
5. How lignite differs from other types?
(One question I'm unable to recall)

Member 2(female)
1. As you mentioned EIA(previous answer) , why it is needed?
2. But it is not efficient in ground level as it mentioned in the act. What is the difference between the provision and the ground reality ?
3. Even though renewable energy causes some environmental issues. Could you mention some issues
4. What are the subjects you covered in your graduation and what is your favourite ?
5. Tell me how many bird species till now extinct ?
6. Is ball badminton different from badminton (she mentioned one game, that I never heard)

Member 3
1. Is there any legal law in the United States to arrest the Venezuela president? If yes what is the legal status ?
2. Long monologue about Operation Sindoor and asked about India stand in this matter differ from earlier stand towards Pakistan.
(1- 2 questions unable to recall it)

Member 4
1. Asking about forest waste and related produce?
2. How it may be useful for humans?
3. About carbon credits and related discussion?
4. Tell me one issue between Tamil Nadu and its neighbouring state? ( I told Cauvery issue)
5. What is the current status and why does it get delayed?
6. What is the supreme court recent verdict about the sharing of water?
Chairman : Thank you.
Overall, it is nice experience.
Time: Approx 30 mins
Mocks : Aram IAS Academy, Naan mudhalvan, Sankalp academy.

UPSC Interview Transcript

Board: Sheel Vardhan Sir
Date: 12/02/2026- Afternoon

Keywords: Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, Cashew Farming, Kathak, Lavani, Writing Quotes and Poetry, Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering, Sociology, MIT Pune, Magazine Editor, Cultural Club Head

I entered the board and greeted all the members.
---

Chairperson

1. Your name has a connection with ancient literature. Do you know about this?


2. What about the Aranyakas and the Upanishads?


3. You were an editor for a college magazine. Do you read newspapers?


4. I am making a statement. Can you elaborate on this?

“The sports page of a newspaper reflects the full truth, the editorial page reflects half the truth, whereas the front page reflects minimum truth.”

(Some discussion followed.)


5. As your hobby is writing quotes, tell me one quote that guides you.

I said:
“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.”


6. How would you be a “rainbow” as a District Magistrate?


7. Which scheme, according to you, has the potential to be a rainbow?

I said VB GRAM G — because poverty is the darkest cloud of all, and the scheme provides dignity and meaningful work opportunities.
(He was nodding and appreciating in between.)


8. Define folk dance.

Member 2 (Lady Member)

1. You perform Kathak. Would you be okay if fusion dance forms are performed?


2. After I replied that as long as the philosophical core principles and techniques remain intact, innovation is acceptable, she again asked:
Would you still be okay with fusion?

3. You are a poet. Are poets observant individuals or social reformers?

4. Give one example to support your argument.

I cited Savitribai Phule and her literary work Bawankashi Subodh Ratnakar.

5. You have studied Sociology. Which concept do you find most useful?

I spoke about Social Facts.

Member 3

1. Taking a cue from the last discussion, did you take Sociology only from an exam perspective?

I explained my rationale.

2. You are an Electronics and Telecommunication engineer. Don’t you think an engineering degree certificate is merely a piece of paper?
(He was nodding in agreement in between.)

3. Why are there so many engineering colleges and high enrolment in states like Maharashtra and Karnataka, especially from a sociological point of view?

I spoke about the rise in aspirations and the preference for professional degrees.

4. He mentioned that in many Western countries, Electrical and Electronics syllabi are integrated, which is not the case in India.
Have you read the Electrical syllabus?

I replied in the negative.
He said, “No issues, it’s okay.”

5. This is a personality test—do you want us to know you more, or to test you?

I said that I would like them to know me more, and in that process, they would also test me.
(He smiled slightly.)

Member 4

1. You perform Lavani. It is a very energetic dance form. What does Lavani express?


2. What do you like about this dance form?


3. Suppose you help someone, but that person is neither grateful nor reciprocative. How would you express this through Lavani?

I said that I would first need to write a Lavani song to express that feeling, but in life, I do not let such experiences affect my helping nature—I continue doing my part.

He said, “Excellent, on that part.”


4. Describe Kanhoji Angre.
(Reference: Sindhudurg Fort)


5. Further discussion followed on the Marathas and his role in shipbuilding.


6. You are engaged in an exciting activity like cashew farming. Why, then, put in such hard work for civil services?( All of them exchanged smile among themselves)

Member 5

1. What is the percentage of protein in cashews?

2. What are the benefits of nuts like almonds and cashews?

3. What is a balanced diet?

4. Are you having a balanced diet these days?

I replied that I had one when I was at home, but since shifting to Delhi, the balance has been disturbed.

5. What is junk food?

6. What are its ill effects?

7. Should we ban all advertisements promoting junk food?

8. What can be done to control the spread of junk food?

9. Define culture.

10. Define Western culture. What are its traits, and why is it called so?

11. Tell me three women from
Maharashtra who inspire you.

I spoke about Savitribai Phule, Sindhutai Sapkal, and K. Majulaxmi (former Collector of my district).

The board member sitting next to him exclaimed, “All women?”
The member clarified that he was specifically asking about women.

12. You have a hobby of writing poems. Do you take time, or can you compose one on the spot?

I said that generally, I take time.

13. Can you write one now?

I asked if I could try writing a quote instead of a poem.
They agreed and allowed me to take my time using pen and paper.

While I was thinking, the Chairperson stood up to drink water.
When I looked up, he waited and asked if I was ready.

I said, “Yes, sir.”

My quote was:

> “She was smiling because her strength was born out of the storms she survived.”

All members smiled and acknowledged it.
The Chairperson said that it was very quick.

Another member then said in Marathi:
“Jastich kadak zala ka interview?”
( May be he co related the term Storm with the interview )

I was surprised to hear Marathi from him, as I had assumed he was Punjabi (since he was wearing a turban). I asked him again to confirm it, and we smiled.

The Chairperson then said:
“It was great talking to you. You can leave now.”

I thanked them all and left.

It was a conversational interview.
All board member seemed genuinely interested in conversation.

Guidance Taken:

1. One-to-one discussion with Anupam Jain Sir (Smartwork Labs)

He acted as a “calm in chaos,” helping me focus on what was truly needed and not get lost in clutter.

He hand-held me right from deciding the entries to be filled in the DAF.

We had detailed one-to-one discussions on each aspect of my DAF.

He guided me to think in the right direction, which significantly improved the quality and clarity of my answers.

Especially, discussions on my hobbies—particularly writing quotes—helped me a lot.

His trust in me strengthened my self-belief and helped me remain confident during the interview.

2. Pranay Agarwal Sir (IAS Gurukul)

Conducted detailed DAF-based questioning.
Very encouraging overall and helped boost confidence.

3. Mahesh Bhagwat Sir

Helped me prepare DAF-based questions in a more structured and focused manner.

Mock Interviews:

(Arranged from best to average)

1. Maharashtra Sadan (best of them all)

2. Study IQ (Khemka Sir–led panel)

3. Unacademy

4. Chanakya Mandal Pariwar

5. Quantel – SPM Academy

6. Next IAS

7. Vajiram and Ravi

8. Vajirao and Reddy

9. PW Only IAS

10. Sankalp IAS

11. Quantel – Raj Malhotra Institute

Discussions with my peer group helped me improve my expression and gain new perspectives
Best wishes to all! 🌸

Date: 11/02/2026
Morning shift, 1st to go
Board: Hon. Sanjay Verma Sir
DAF: Gorakhpur, cycling event, sketching, PSIR

Chairman:
Say something about flowers
Tell me about flowers from multi dimensional view like politics, social, economic, etc
Do they have any defense mechanism? How do they protect against threats?
Do they also have thorns?
Do humans also have mechanism like pheromones? (I mentioned pheromone in previous answer)
So this week they must be in danger. What must be reason for that?
Which particular flower would be most vulnerable this week?
How are you going to spend this valentine? With whom? Have you found your valentine yet?
What did you had in your breakfast?
How much calories it must have been?
Which type of bread you ate? (Brown or milk or something else)
Which company was it of?

M1 (female board member)
Did you notice the Mahatma gandhi statue while coming inside? What was written beneath it?
What did he meant by that?
What was the most important message of gandhiji?
What is different about Gandhiji's non violence?
You have mentioned interested in sketching, what does it mean?

M2
Tell me 5 conflicts going on in the world in order of severity
If you have to choose one country from our neighbourhood to focus maximum efforts on which will be most beneficial for us, which would it be? Why?
But we are seeing the people of Bangladesh are having anti India sentiment, so what is your say on that? Is it possible?
Have you heard of recent news about vande mataram?
Are you aware of the stock market?
What factors decide the bullish and bearish moves?
What is market sentiment?
What are recent evaluation issues in Ed tech sector?
Do you know any Ed tech company which is doing good recently?
What are FIIs?

M3
Tell me 2 most important technology emerging in current times?
How can AI help a common man?
Do you use AI?
How do you use it?
Which AI app do use?
Data is the new oil. What does it mean?
Give example how the data is used by companies?
Tell me about current US india relations?
What do you think, the current agreement signed between India and US is good or bad for India?
What about tariffs, is it justified?
How much India imposed tariff on US?
Trump is claiming to be peace paker, what is your view on that?
But he has made board of peace for Gaza, so he is bringing peace, what will you say then?
Recently he has also taken Nobel Peace Prize, do you think it is justified?
Has he really been given the peace Prize or it was given by someone else?
What is the significance of this peace Prize then?

M4.
Will you give your gold medal to someone else if he asks for it?
Who conducted the cycling event? (DAF achievement)
What was your approach to win that race?
What was the distance you covered?
In which year was it conducted?
What was the deciding factor to judge the winner?
Do you know the bicycle man of India?
Gorakhpur is famous for what?
When was geeta press established?
What is it's significance?
Does CM belonging to your city, helped the city?
What developments have you seen under him?

Chairman: thank you, your interview is over.

Time: around 28 minutes

Date: 10-02-2026

Key DAF Details: Book Club, Punjabi Poetry, Giddha, Kho Kho, Punjab, PSIR

Board: Sheel Vardhan Sir

Questions asked:
Chairman:
1. Share wisdom of recent book you read.
2. Any other book of William Dalrymple.
3. You perform Giddha, name instruments used in Bhangra.
4. Why Uae leader visited india recently?
5. Are Uae and Saudi also having conflicts in Sudan?

M2 (mam)
1. What is the impact of globalization on culture?
2. Name some of Your favourite poets.



M3.
1. What is your view on "he is my friend" in IR? Further discussion on friends in administration?
2. Is kho kho a rural or urban game?

M4.
1. Do you see any significance of humour in life?
2. How humour has impacted you in real life?
3. Why Guru Nanak went on travel?
4. Does he felt pain also?
5. We all are old people here, ask one ques from your gen. to us

M5.
1. Compare Kho Kho vs Kabbadi
2. Punjab used to be rich, what happened?
3. Is todays world fragmented or multipolar?
4. Is multipolar better than unipolar and bipolar?

Chairman : thank you, your interview is over.

Date 11 feb 2026
Name - science curious
Board - sheel vardhan sir
Daf keywords- morning walk, science documentary,bsc, ma in political science, rajasthan,psir nothing other important
Time duration _ about 26 or 27 minutes.
Chairperson -
Welcome to this conversation
1. You have a peculiar hobby of watching science documentary. Can you suggest me few documentary which I can watch.
2.have you heard about Artemis mission.what is it about. Is there any plan for landing people on the moon.
3.have you heard the word.slingshot with regards to this.
4. You are a person of science,can you give us deadline when human will be on Mars.
5. You could have a career in science,why you chose civil services over it.
Memeber1 (lady member)
1.ok you have heard about great wall of china . Can you tell about great wall of India .
2. Tell me about tangible and intangible cultural heritage sites from rajasthan.
3.what is unique about jaisalmer fort.
Memeber2
1. I couldn't get the exact question but it was about knowledge and perception.
2. Do we all are under perception.how much percentage of people you think uder this perception or who do not care about economic development and political will etc
3. Why you chose ma in political science after bsc.
You could have done b.a. instead of bsc .
4. I want to know the mindset of society behind this .
5. You do not had thought about B. tech.
6.do you like mr. Trump.
How would you score him if you have to.
Memeber3
1. You are quite young and you go for morning walk . why this hobby at such a young age.
2. You were sitting in hall where other candidates also present. Generally you have observed they are wearing spectacles and you are not. Is there any connection between going for morning walk and not wearing spectacles.
3. Taking perception as point from earlier member , asked me about narrative warfare.
4. Cross questions on this ,how India can manage this new warfare,
5. Do you think there should be some kind of reality or truth in this , otherwise how people will accept it. And further cross questions I m not recalling.
6. You are from science then tell me about bhartiya antriksh space station.
7. What we will do there.
8.from my answer he asked about micro gravity.
Member 4
1.Ok you are from ir backgrounds , then monologue on israel gaza issue and its fallout on human rights, killing innocent civilians. Why countries are not taking stand against it ,
Do you think india should take stand against this violation of human rights, why countries are divided on this issue
2. From my answer do you think ideology matters in this issue.
3.then gave a situation,think you are dopt minister,you are preparing for civils so you would relate to it, you have to
present a bill in the parliament which will limit maximum attempt limit for civil services at 3 and maximum age 26.
How would you represent your argument,and now think as opposition and give argument against this.
4. Now think as person you are what will be your opinion on this move and what as aspirant you suggest reforms in this process.
Chairperson _
Thanks your interview is over.it was a pleasant meeting with you. You can go now

Board: Chairman Shukla Sir (I was the last candidate) forenoon
Feb 13

DAF Keywords:
MBBS
Healthy recipes
Medical content writing

Chairman
Started with questions on AI in content creation.
Asked about problems associated with AI-generated content (ethical issues, authenticity, misinformation, doctor–patient trust, accountability etc.).
Interestingly, Sir himself answered
Member 1 (M1)
Ayurveda vs Modern Medicine
Evidence-based approach
Standardization by
Integrative medicine possibilities
Limitations of both systems
Follow-up questions
Member 2 (M2)
Mostly around MBBS background
Why shift from medical career to civil services?
Questions on role of doctors in public administration

Member 3 (M3)
Why fast food is unhealthy?
Follow-ups .
Member 4 (M4)
Social justice vs meritocracy – how to balance both?
Medical college admissions and systemic issues
If surnames are removed, will discrimination end?

Overall
Mostly DAF-based.
Mock and one on ones @
Quantel very helpful (multiple one-on-ones, mocks online )
Fortune
Lead
Xylem
iLearn
Samkalp
Online - ALS ,gallant ias,enlite
All of them added value in different ways.

UPSC CSE Personality Test : Interview Transcript
Date: 13 February 2026
Time: ~3:30 PM
Duration: ~26 minutes

Board Chairperson: Sujata Chaturvedi Mam

Board Composition: Chairperson (Female) + 4 Male Members

Candidate: N

Daf Keywords: Telangana, Electrical Engineer, Discom job, Irrigation Dept job, Youtuber, Anthropology (others not asked)

Order: 4th candidate of the day

Entry & Initial Interaction
Candidate entered, greeted the board, and stood beside the chair.
Chairperson invited: “N, come take a seat.”

You seem to be nervous!

Chairperson read through DAF details before initiating questions.

Chairperson’s Questions (Madam Sujata Chaturvedi)

1. Preparation Journey
How long have you been preparing for competitive exams?
How do you read current affairs?
What are your sources?
How much current affairs do you know?

2. Personality Transformation
How has preparing for UPSC and reading current affairs changed you as a person?

3. Geography – Himalayas
Mention three important features/significance of the Himalayas for India.
Candidate initially gave two points.
Chairperson provided clues for a third.
Final point included:
Origin of major rivers (Indus, Ganga, Yamuna), lifeline of India.

Member 2 – Engineering / Irrigation Background
Questions linked to technical profile:
1. Domain Transition
How is the work technically different for an electrical engineer in a DISCOM versus an irrigation department?
2. Technical Questions
Designing drip irrigation pump sets.
Irrigation efficiency — challenges and improvements.
Problems in urban water supply.
Practical solutions for urban water management.
Deeper technical questions on pumping systems (some could not be answered).

Member 3 – Media, Culture & Society
1. News Consumption & Media Literacy
What are your primary sources of news?

Candidate: Newspapers.
Do you watch television or use social media?

Candidate: Not currently.
Earlier social media sources?
Candidate: Instagram and WhatsApp groups.

Follow-up: Fake News
How do you differentiate fake news from genuine information?

Candidate response:
Cross-check through Google search.
Verify from authoritative government websites.
Use intuitive judgement when messages appear suspicious.

2. Telugu Film Industry
Impact of S. S. Rajamouli on Indian cinema.
Technological changes introduced.
Changes in Indian film industry after Magadheera.

3. Sociology / Anthropology
Question on anthropologist who recently expired Andre Beteille (candidate unable to recall) what are his major works.
Member provided clues relating to caste and power dynamics.
Discussion followed on:
Social stratification.
Class hierarchy.
Power structures in society.

Member 4 – Technology, Career & Telangana

Contribution of Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) to:
Defence
Nuclear sector
Space sector.

2. Career Choices
Why shift from a high-paying DISCOM job to a comparatively lower-paying irrigation/agriculture role?

3. Telangana Statehood
Reasons behind bifurcation of Telangana.
Are people of Telangana and Andhra satisfied now?
Have the objectives of state formation been achieved?

Observation: Board became visibly engaged; discussion was lively.

Member 5 – International Relations

1. Regional Cooperation
If you had to reform either SAARC or BIMSTEC, which would you choose?
What reforms would you suggest?

2. Linking Personal Experience
How can your YouTube/content-creation knowledge be used to improve SAARC/BIMSTEC functioning or outreach?

Member added points and interacted further; response partly satisfactory.
Closing

Chairperson concluded: “Your interview is over, you may leave.”
Candidate thanked the board and exited.

Unable to recollect some questions.

Board Demeanor (Candidate Observation)
Chairperson: composed, serious, occasionally restrained smile.
Other members: neutral to cheerful.

Atmosphere: professional and engaging.
Experience similar to mocks, but UPSC Bhavan environment felt distinctly different.

Mocks Taken In the order of Utility:

Vaji Rao Reddy, Nextias, Samkalp (Offline and Online), Hardworking Humans (Manish IAS 2017),
OnlyIAS o2o, Macs Hyd, Amigos, Ekam, Unacademy

DAF Discussion with Samkalp, Mahesh Bagawat IPS sir were good