For every UPSC aspirant, the interview stage is the final hurdle that stands between them and their dream of becoming a civil servant. While many candidates focus heavily on the prelims and mains, the interview round demands equal, if not more, meticulous preparation. As the UPSC CSE 2024 interviews are set to begin, we spoke to IPS officer Rishabh Bhola of the 2022 batch, Punjab cadre, who offered valuable insights into acing the interview.
Mr. Bhola, who cleared the UPSC exam in his fourth attempt and is currently serving as ASP, Jalandhar, shared his unique approach to the interview process. His advice, drawn from personal experience, can serve as a guiding light for aspirants navigating this crucial phase.
BALANCE MOCK INTERVIEWS
Mock interviews are a common practice among UPSC aspirants, but Mr. Bhola warns against over-reliance on them. “Too many mock interviews can lead to confusion,” he told to Indian Masterminds. “Every person has a different perspective, and if you expose yourself to too many opinions, it can muddle your preparation strategy.”
He advises candidates to limit themselves to just 2-3 mock interviews initially and focus on identifying recurring shortcomings. Once those issues are noted, aspirants should work on improving them before attending another round of mock interviews closer to the actual date. “Too much of anything is bad. Don’t go hopping between different institutes for mocks,” he insists.
DAF PREPARATION
According to Mr. Bhola, the Detailed Application Form (DAF) plays a pivotal role in determining the course of the interview. “Most of the questions in my interview were based on my DAF and current issues in Punjab, such as the drug and arms problem,” he recalls. Therefore, aspirants must be well-versed with every detail they have mentioned in their DAF.
Along with DAF preparation, he emphasizes staying updated with ongoing national and international events. “After you are selected for the interview, prepare your DAF thoroughly and keep yourself informed about all major current affairs,” he advises.
STAYING GROUNDED AND GENUINE
Another significant piece of advice from Mr. Bhola is to maintain a genuine demeanor during the interview. “It’s important to present your real self and be honest. Don’t try to fake knowledge or personality traits,” he says. He also stresses the importance of staying connected with social media and entertainment. “One can learn from anywhere—movies, web series, even songs. Staying updated and informed helps in making the interview conversational and engaging.”
RISABH BHOLA’S INSPIRING JOURNEY
Originally from Patiala, Punjab, Rishabh Bhola grew up listening to stories of India’s freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh, Lala Lajpat Rai, and the ten Sikh gurus. These tales instilled a deep sense of national pride in him from a young age.
By the time he was in Class 8, Rishabh had already decided he wanted to serve the nation by becoming a fighter pilot. He drew inspiration from legendary military leaders such as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon. However, his dream was crushed when he was medically rejected for the Air Force due to a minor spinal issue, a common condition among tall individuals.
Despite the setback, Rishabh didn’t lose hope. In 2016, while pursuing a degree in computer engineering at Punjabi University, Patiala, he discovered UPSC as an alternative path to serve the country. His journey wasn’t easy—it took him three failed attempts before he finally succeeded in his fourth attempt, securing an All India Rank of 410 in UPSC CSE-2021.
“I always believed in perseverance,” says Mr. Bhola. “Failures in my first three attempts taught me valuable lessons. Every setback brought me closer to understanding the demands of the exam better.”
ENJOY THE PROCES
Mr. Bhola’s final advice to aspirants is to enjoy the process and stay true to themselves. “Don’t treat the interview as an interrogation. It’s a conversation where you showcase your best self. Be confident, be honest, and most importantly, be genuine,” he concludes.
