Preparing for the Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) Interview

Currently, RPSC is preparing for the Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) interviews, the final stage of its flagship examination process. Candidates will face a panel of experts, including senior bureaucrats and subject matter specialists, who will assess their personality, administrative skills, and knowledge of Rajasthan’s socio-political landscape. As the interview phase plays a crucial role in final selection, aspirants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Commission’s structure and prepare diligently for this important stage.

The Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) is a constitutional body established by the Government of Rajasthan on December 22, 1949. Headquartered in Ajmer, the Commission plays a pivotal role in recruiting qualified candidates for various state government positions. It operates under the principles of merit and reservation rules, ensuring fairness and efficiency in the recruitment process.

Key Functions of RPSC

RPSC’s primary responsibilities include:

• Conducting competitive examinations, screening tests, and interviews for state appointments.
• Advising the Rajasthan government on recruitment, appointments, transfers, promotions, and disciplinary actions.
• Formulating recruitment rules, policies, and procedures to uphold professional standards within the civil services framework.

Organizational Structure

The RPSC is composed of:

• Chairman: The current officiating Chairman is Shri Kailash Chand Meena, appointed on October 9, 2023. He assumed charge as Chairman on August 6, 2024. Shri Meena holds a Master’s degree in Political Science and has an extensive career in public administration, previously serving as Secretary, Local Self-Government, Government of Rajasthan. His term will conclude on July 8, 2026.
• Members: The Commission comprises seven Members appointed by the Governor of Rajasthan. As of October 2023, the Members include:
  1. Dr. Sangeeta Arya
     • Qualifications: Ph.D. in Music, M.A. in Philosophy, M.A. in Music
     • Date of Appointment: October 14, 2020
     • Previous Position: Assistant Professor, College Education Department
  2. Dr. Manju Sharma
     • Qualifications: M.A. in Geography, Ph.D.
     • Date of Appointment: October 15, 2020
     • Previous Position: Associate Professor, M.S.J. P.G. Government College, Bharatpur
  3. Lt. Col. Kesari Singh Rathore
     • Qualifications: B.Sc. in Electronics, M.Sc. in Information Technology
     • Date of Appointment: October 9, 2023
     • Previous Position: Lieutenant Colonel (Retired)
  4. Prof. Aiyub Khan
     • Qualifications: M.Sc. in Mathematics, Ph.D. in Mathematics
     • Date of Appointment: October 9, 2023
     • Previous Position: Professor of Mathematics, Department of Mathematics & Statistics, JNVU, Jodhpur
  5. One position currently remains vacant.
• Secretariat Staff: The Commission’s administrative functions are overseen by the Secretary, Shri Ram Niwas Mehta (IAS), supported by Deputy Secretary, Examination Controller Shri Ashutosh Gupta (IAS), and Joint Secretary Ms. Rishibala Shrimali (RAS).

Advice for Candidates Appearing for the RAS Interview

Candidates preparing for the interview should take the time to familiarize themselves with the profiles of the RPSC members. Understanding the backgrounds and expertise of the panel members can provide critical insights into what they value in candidates and what areas they might focus on during the interview. Each member brings their own professional and academic background to the table, and being aware of these can help candidates tailor their responses more effectively.

Knowing the panel members enables candidates to anticipate questions that may align with the members’ areas of expertise. This preparation can create a more fluid and engaging conversation during the interview, as candidates can demonstrate not only their knowledge but also their ability to connect with the panel’s diverse experiences and perspectives. Moreover, understanding the strengths and areas of focus of each member can give candidates the confidence to approach the interview in a more strategic manner.

As discussed in our previous post on UPSC interview preparation, researching the panel members can make a significant difference. Candidates who understand the roles and experiences of the interviewers are more likely to respond with confidence and clarity, leading to a better overall performance. This familiarity also demonstrates the candidate’s preparedness and respect for the panel, which can positively influence the interview dynamics.

Conclusion

The interview is a crucial step in the selection process, and thorough preparation is essential to maximize the chances of success. Familiarizing yourself with the organizational structure of RPSC, as well as the profiles of the panel members, can help in making a positive impression. By demonstrating both your knowledge of the subject matter and your awareness of the panel, you can approach the interview with confidence and clarity, enhancing your chances of securing a place in Rajasthan’s prestigious administrative services.

Good Luck.