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Should I Focus on UPSC or State PSC While Working Full-Time?

Parthiban T R

Parthiban T R   | Answer  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 05, 2024

Parthiban TR, a former professor, has been working in the fields of training and learning development for over 17 years.
As a career counsellor and mentor, he has been tutoring students from Classes I to XII (predominantly CBSE), UG (engineering) and others for nearly a decade.
He has worked as a lecturer and professor at the Kuppam Engineering College, Kuppam; the NRI Group of Institutions in Bhopal; and the Bhopal Institute of Technology and Science in Bhopal.
Parthiban qualified for GATE in 2002, 2011 and 2013 and has been training aspirants to prepare for NEET-UG and IIT-JEE.
He holds a bachelor's degree in computer science and engineering from the Guru Ramdas Khalsa Institute of Technology College in Madhya Pradesh and a bachelor's degree in education, specialising in physics and mathematics, from the Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Jul 05, 2024Hindi
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Career

Hi sir iam 26 years old iam currently working in IT but I'm planning to join govt job due to my interest and reasons of job stability and security. Hence I'm preparing for upsc along with job but iam preparing state PSC too where i recently written prelims and clearing cutoff and preparing for mains now however I'm panic as to how can I balance both at once along with job. My job is flexible and I get very much time to prepare. Please guide me sir

Ans: 26 is a comfortable age, when you are capable of managing your emotions, time, health and work on your own.
Have a habit of 6 hours of sound sleep first. Followed by walk and breathing exercises for 45 minutes. Plan your day and work everything will fall in line. All the very best.
Career

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I have just recently completed my btech in Computer science engineering from a tier 3 engineering college in Kolkata. Being a tier 3 college, there weren't any decent on campus placements. Further, I always wanted to become an IFS( Indian Foreign Service) officer, so always wanted to sit for UPSC after finishing my graduation. But now that I have seriously started thinking about it, I am not sure what to do. I mean I want to pursue UPSC, there is no financial pressure from family, atleast not for the next 2 years but I feel like if I don't make it (since I have to consider the scenario that I may fail to crack the exam), I don't know whether I will be able to get a job after 2 years gap after graduation in IT sector or will I be able to pursue further studies such as MS from USA or MBA from tob b schools in India. I am feeling depressed and helpless as I am unable to decide what to do? Should I just start looking for a job right now or just prepare for UPSC and don't worry about those stuff right now. I would greatly appreciate your answers and views in this matter.
Ans: Soumik, You seem to be in a muddle. I suggest you go for career counselling from a professional who will charge you for it. Also remember that the fail rate in UPSC exams is high and if you want to pursue a career as an IFS officer you will have to work really hard to pass the various levels of exams. If you feel you have the tenacity and perseverance and are confident of your abilities, then go for it! If in doubt, stop and think, then take a concerted decision based on what you really feel and know about yourself.
I also suggest that you carry out your own SWOT analysis to get to know your capabilities and capacities to attain your goals.
Wish you the best!

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Krishna

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I have just recently completed my btech in Computer science engineering from a tier 3 engineering college in Kolkata. Being a tier 3 college, there weren't any decent on campus placements. Further, I always wanted to become an IFS( Indian Foreign Service) officer, so always wanted to sit for UPSC after finishing my graduation. But now that I have seriously started thinking about it, I am not sure what to do. I mean I want to pursue UPSC, there is no financial pressure from family, atleast not for the next 2 years but I feel like if I don't make it (since I have to consider the scenario that I may fail to crack the exam), I don't know whether I will be able to get a job after 2 years gap after graduation in IT sector or will I be able to pursue further studies such as MS from USA or MBA from tob b schools in India. I am feeling depressed and helpless as I am unable to decide what to do? Should I just start looking for a job right now or just prepare for UPSC and don't worry about those stuff right now. I would greatly appreciate your answers and views in this matter.
Ans: Dear Mr.Soumik

Cracking UPSC is not easy but it's worth the effort. Believe in yourself and put your heart and soul in it....suggest you watch the movie 12th fail.

Recently I hired a member in my team, he pursued UPSC for two years and was not successful...the preparation that he did for 2 years made him a different person and that's the reason I hired him

It is said that when we aim for the moon and if we don't get it we would still lmd on some star...

All the best.

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Shekhar

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Asked by Anonymous - Mar 17, 2024Hindi
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What should I do I have cgpa 6.1 in btech now till sem 3rd year ,1st sem. Currently I'm in 3rd year. So , i should prepare for upsc civil services or UPSC engineering services.
Ans: Deciding between UPSC Civil Services and UPSC Engineering Services requires careful consideration of your interests, strengths, and career goals. Reflect on your interests, strengths, and career aspirations. If you have a passion for public administration, policymaking, and addressing societal issues, UPSC Civil Services may be a better fit for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy technical challenges, problem-solving, and contributing to infrastructure development, UPSC Engineering Services may align better with your interests. UPSC Civil Services often involve a diverse range of roles, including administrative, diplomatic, and policymaking positions, with opportunities to work at the national, state, or district levels. UPSC Engineering Services primarily focuses on engineering roles in government departments and organizations, with responsibilities related to project management, design, and implementation of infrastructure projects. I would recommend that you pursue civil services, which may indeed be a better choice for you. Civil services provide opportunities to lead and make decisions that influence public policies, programs, and initiatives. As a civil servant, you can contribute to governance, social development, and nation-building by addressing key issues and challenges facing the country. Civil services offer avenues for continuous learning, professional growth, and skill development. You can undertake training programs, attend workshops, and participate in capacity-building initiatives to enhance your knowledge, skills, and leadership abilities throughout your career. Civil services provide the job security, stability, and prestige associated with serving in the government sector. Civil servants enjoy various perks, benefits, and allowances, along with opportunities for promotion and career advancement based on performance and seniority.

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Asked by Anonymous - Jan 17, 2025Hindi
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Then doctor asked her why she stopped and what I said, my wife said that he is asking for female staff and doctor said “I am a doctor and I am not having female staff and there is nothing male and female in doctor’s consultation” my wife got convinced and told me that we are continuing with this doctor and I also shaked my head as consent sign but not aware with the upcoming surprise and then she open her upper body part and doctor did the check up by pressing or whatever doctor does. And I was not ready for this So, I am still in trauma due to this, but I don’t want her to show her body to any male doctor. That picture comes again and again in my eyes. I don’t want to break my relation with wife, because we married 20 years before and we have 2 daughter and I love her too much. But she has disobeyed me and obeyed that doctor. I am in a trauma. What should I do to come out of this trauma. Please let me know.
Ans: To address your trauma, start by having an open and honest conversation with your wife about your feelings. Express your emotions calmly, without blame, so she can understand the depth of your discomfort and help you work through it. It's also crucial to recognize that trust and mutual respect are fundamental in any relationship. Your wife’s decision was likely driven by her need for medical care, not a desire to hurt or disobey you.

Consider seeking professional help for yourself. A therapist or counselor can provide a safe space for you to explore these feelings, work through the trauma, and develop strategies to cope with intrusive thoughts. They can also help you understand the importance of medical privacy and the necessity of certain procedures, which may ease your discomfort over time.

Additionally, you might want to explore couples counseling. This can help both of you navigate this situation together, rebuild trust, and strengthen your relationship. Remember, your goal is to maintain a loving and supportive partnership, and professional guidance can be instrumental in achieving that.

Your love for your wife and your desire to keep the relationship strong is evident. By addressing these feelings head-on and seeking support, you can move towards healing and maintaining the bond you cherish.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7548 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 17, 2025Hindi
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I'm 35 years old. I want to invest INR 65000 for retirement at 50 years old. My current expenses 65000 per month. Please guide me.
Ans: Retiring at 50 with your current lifestyle requires a carefully crafted investment strategy. Here’s a detailed guide tailored to your goal.

Step 1: Define Retirement Corpus Requirement
Current Monthly Expenses: Rs. 65,000.
Inflation Adjustment: At 6% inflation, your expenses will increase significantly by 50.
Retirement Corpus: The corpus must sustain you for at least 30+ years post-retirement.
Lifestyle Goals: Include travel, medical emergencies, and aspirational expenses in calculations.
Step 2: Asset Allocation Strategy
A balanced mix of equity and debt instruments can help grow your wealth steadily while minimizing risks.

1. Equity Mutual Funds (70% Allocation)
Why Equity? High growth potential to beat inflation over the long term.
Recommended Categories: Flexi-cap, mid-cap, and large-cap funds.
SIP/Investable Amount: Invest Rs. 45,500 monthly in equity mutual funds.
2. Debt Instruments (30% Allocation)
Why Debt? Stability and regular income during volatile markets.
Recommended Options: PPF, short-term debt mutual funds, or NPS (Tier I).
SIP/Investable Amount: Allocate Rs. 19,500 monthly.
Step 3: Include Inflation Protection
Inflation reduces the value of money significantly over time.
Your retirement corpus should grow faster than the inflation rate.
Equity exposure helps overcome inflation impacts effectively.
Step 4: Ensure Tax Efficiency
1. Equity Mutual Funds
Tax Rules: Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
Action Plan: Use annual redemption to manage gains below taxable limits.
2. PPF and NPS
Tax Benefits: Both offer tax-saving benefits under Section 80C.
Lock-in Period: Ensure alignment with your retirement timeline.
Step 5: Emergency Fund Creation
Build an emergency fund equivalent to 12 months’ expenses (Rs. 7.8 lakh).
Park it in liquid funds or a high-yield savings account for quick access.
Step 6: Health and Risk Coverage
Health Insurance: Ensure adequate coverage to avoid depleting investments during medical emergencies.
Life Insurance: Use a term plan to secure your dependents until you achieve your retirement goal.
Step 7: Regular Portfolio Reviews
Review your portfolio every six months.
Rebalance based on performance, changing goals, and market conditions.
Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner for optimized asset allocation.
Step 8: Additional Recommendations
Avoid Real Estate: Illiquid and high transaction costs make it unsuitable for your timeline.
Avoid Direct Investments: Opt for regular plans via mutual fund distributors guided by a CFP.
Diversify Investments: Explore international mutual funds for added growth.
Step 9: Incremental Contributions
Increase your SIP amount annually by 10-15% to align with income growth.
This ensures your corpus grows significantly over time.
Finally
Achieving financial independence by 50 is ambitious but achievable. Consistency in investments, inflation-adjusted growth, and regular reviews are critical. Focus on disciplined execution of the outlined plan for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

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