Founded by SRIRAM Sir in 1985, SRIRAM’s IAS has set the benchmark for UPSC Civil Services preparation for nearly four decades. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, they have guided over 3,500 aspirants to success in the UPSC CSE, helping them realize their dreams of serving as IAS, IPS, and IFS officers. In an interview with EduKida, Srirangam Sriram, Chief Mentor of SRIRAM’s IAS, discussed the UPSC examination and how one can prepare for these competitive exams

Q: What makes UPSC different from our college exams?

A: Think of it this way – in college, you might study about the Green Revolution. But for UPSC, you need to understand how it transformed Punjab’s economy, its environmental impact on soil health, and current challenges like stubble burning. It’s like moving to professional cricket and actually playing on different pitches.

Q: How can students start preparing for competitive exams?

A: Begin with basic books and newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express. Get conceptual clarity and try application. When reading about, say, the new Metros in Andhra Pradesh , connect it to urban planning, environmental impact, and funding patterns. Make it a habit. Even watching news about Chandrayaan-3 and Syria should trigger thoughts about India’s space policy , scientific capabilities and geopolitics.

Q: Managing stress seems overwhelming. Any practical tips?

A: Many successful candidates maintain balance by combining preparation with hobbies. Some join local NGOs in Delhi’s Satya Niketan or Mumbai’s Dharavi. Some teach underprivileged children. Some help old people. It helps understand grassroots issues while taking breaks from studies. Even a morning walk can refresh your mind.

Q: How different is the thinking required for competitive exams?

A: it demands knowledge of fundamentals and surroundings. Let’s say you’re studying water conservation. Don’t just memorize Rajasthan’s water harvesting systems. Understand how Gujarat’s SAUNI project relates to current water security. Think about how traditional methods like Maharashtra’s paithans connect to modern challenges.

Q: Does mentorship really help?

A: Absolutely! Many aspirants from coaching hubs like Mukherjee Nagar in Delhi and Ashok Nagar in Hyderabad share how their mentors helped them focus on important topics like Article 370 or GST, rather than getting lost in unnecessary details. A good mentor can cut your preparation time significantly.

Q: What’s your advice for daily preparation?

A: Establish a consistent routine. Start with current affairs for an hour, followed by one core subject. Break down topics like “Indian Economy” into smaller modules – maybe monetary policy this week, fiscal policy next week. Take short breaks, revise previous day’s topics, and practice answer writing daily. Use weekends for mock tests and detailed revisions. Remember, daily small steps build long-term success.

Q: How can one manage preparation while working?

Many successful candidates managed to clear the exam while working. The key is dedicating quality time daily, even if it’s just two hours. Study smart – when learning about tribal rights, connect it to current issues like the Forest Rights Act implementation. Make your preparation relevant to real India. Use commute time for reading, lunch breaks for quick revisions, and weekends for intensive study sessions.