UPSC Launches ‘Pratibha Setu’ to Connect Candidates with Job Opportunities

The UPSC has unveiled ‘Pratibha Setu’, a new initiative aimed at connecting candidates who reach the final interview stage of its exams but miss the merit list. Announced by Prime Minister Modi, this digital platform allows qualified candidates to share their profiles with potential employers in government and private sectors. With over 10,000 candidates already in the database, the initiative seeks to reduce talent wastage and provide new job opportunities across various fields. This move is a significant step towards recognizing the hard work of aspirants and ensuring their skills are utilized effectively.

By Ambika Singh Sep 1, 2025, 09:24 IST

Introduction to ‘Pratibha Setu’

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has introduced a new initiative named ‘Pratibha Setu’. This program is aimed at assisting candidates who reach the final interview stage of UPSC examinations but narrowly miss out on the merit list. The initiative was announced on August 31, 2025, and was highlighted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 125th episode of Mann Ki Baat. The goal is to connect highly qualified candidates with potential employers in both the public and private sectors.

Importance of the Initiative

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is known for its difficulty, attracting lakhs of candidates each year. However, only a few make it to the final merit list. Many candidates who pass the preliminary, mains, and personality test still do not secure a final position due to narrow margins. Previously, these candidates had limited options to showcase their skills despite their exceptional qualifications.

To address this issue, UPSC has developed ‘Pratibha Setu’ (Resource and Talent Integration – Bridge for Hiring Aspirants), a digital platform that opens new opportunities for deserving candidates.

Endorsement by PM Modi

During his Mann Ki Baat address, Prime Minister Modi commended the initiative, stating,

“Every year, numerous capable candidates reach the interview stage of UPSC examinations but fall short by a few marks. They are compelled to prepare for new exams, which requires additional time and financial resources. To tackle this, UPSC has launched the ‘Pratibha Setu Portal,’ where details of such candidates will be made accessible. Registered government departments, PSUs, and private companies can utilize this data to identify and recruit talented individuals.”

Overview of ‘Pratibha Setu’

Originally known as the Public Disclosure Scheme (PDS) when it was initiated in 2018, the program has been rebranded as ‘Pratibha Setu.’ It serves as a digital database where candidates who pass all three stages of UPSC exams but do not make it to the final merit list can voluntarily submit their profiles.

Candidates who choose to participate will have their details—including educational qualifications, contact information, and examination history—shared with registered recruiters, which may include:

Central government departments

Public sector undertakings (PSUs)

Recognized private companies

These institutions can access verified candidate profiles using login credentials provided by UPSC and offer suitable job opportunities.

Database Scope and Candidate Availability

Currently, the UPSC database includes profiles of over 10,000 qualified candidates. These individuals have demonstrated their merit by passing all examination stages but were not included in the final selection list. Employers now have a streamlined method to connect with skilled professionals who possess training in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and administration.

Examinations Included in the Initiative

The ‘Pratibha Setu’ initiative encompasses various UPSC examinations, including:

Civil Services Examination (CSE)

Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF)

Engineering Services Examination (ESE)

Indian Forest Service (IFS)

Combined Defence Services (CDS)

Combined Medical Services (CMS)

Economic and Statistical Services (IES/ISS)

Geoscientist Services (CGSE)

This broad coverage ensures candidates from various fields—from administration to medicine and engineering—have equal opportunities to explore job prospects.

Reducing Talent Wastage

The launch of ‘Pratibha Setu’ signifies a proactive approach to minimize talent wastage. Candidates who miss the UPSC final list often find themselves restarting their preparation, leading to financial and emotional stress. By facilitating connections with government institutions, PSUs, and private organizations, this initiative enables candidates to utilize their skills in meaningful careers.

Conclusion

With the introduction of ‘Pratibha Setu’, UPSC has made a significant move to link unplaced yet highly skilled candidates with potential employers. This initiative not only recognizes the dedication of thousands of aspirants but also ensures their efforts are acknowledged. For India, it represents a crucial step in leveraging untapped talent for national development.