Don’t chase social media, chase your goals: SP tells UPSC, KPSC aspirants

Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baladandi on Monday advised youth aspiring to crack the UPSC and KPSC examinations not to chase social media but to chase their goals and dreams, noting that competition has intensified in recent years with a large number of candidates applying for a single post.

The SP was speaking after inaugurating the IAS and KAS examination training camp organised by the Competitive Examination Training Centre of Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) here.

Mr. Baladandi urged candidates to reduce their use of mobile phones and time spent on social media. In the digital age, while information is easily accessible through mobile phones and the internet, success in competitive examinations depends on hard work, patience, and consistent effort, he said.

He advised aspirants not to harbour the misconception that only the wealthy can secure government jobs.

The SP also cautioned college students to stay away from undesirable activities on campuses and instead focus on academics.

Stating that competitive examinations such as the UPSC and KPSC are tough challenges requiring long-term commitment, he advised aspirants to focus on comprehensive preparation rather than concentrating on a single subject. “No matter how intelligent one is, continuous study is essential,” he said, urging trainees to utilise their time effectively.

Joint Director of the Administrative Training Institute, Sadhana A. Pote, called upon more Kannada-speaking youth to participate in examinations like the UPSC and secure positions at the national level, bringing pride to the State.

She said opportunities were available in the public sector, private sector, and self-employment. However, middle-class youth prefer government jobs due to job security, stable salaries, allowances, medical facilities, pension benefits, and better work–life balance. She advised the youth to give equal importance to private sector opportunities as well.

Ms. Pote also advised aspirants to give priority to the preliminary examination, followed by the main examination, and said NCERT textbooks of Classes 7, 8, and 9 should be studied in detail as they provide a strong foundation for all competitive examinations.

Vice-Chancellor of KSOU Prof. Sharanappa V. Halase advised trainees to believe in themselves and dedicate more time towards achieving their goals of becoming IPS, IAS or KAS officers.

Registrar (Evaluation) C.S. Anand Kumar, Finance Officer Dr. S. Niranjan Raj, Coordinator Jainahalli Satyanarayana Gowda and others were present.