Cleared UPSC, joined govt service, then walked away: IIT Madras alumnus reveals why he quit & what made him question his career

Clearing the UPSC civil services examination is a goal that many aspirants spend years preparing for. But for some, entering government service does not necessarily mean the end of their career journey.

Bharani Vlsvss, an IIT Madras alumnus who cleared the civil services examination and joined the Indian Trade Service, has opened up about why he eventually decided to leave government service and return to the private sector.

Read more - A baby cried, a tea seller offered one glass of milk, and a 35-year tradition began: How a small act of kindness in Bihar became a family mission


In a detailed post, Vlsvss reflected on his experience in the civil services and discussed several aspects of the system that made him reconsider his career. His views have since prompted a range of reactions from users online.

UPSC services: Why officers can have different experiences

Vlsvss pointed to differences between the various services that candidates can join after clearing the civil services examination.

According to him, these differences are not limited to prestige or perks. They can also influence an officer's opportunities, working environment, institutional support and overall quality of life.

“To begin with, the disparity between the so-called ‘elite’ services and the others under the civil services umbrella. And I am not talking merely about prestige or perks,” said Vlsvss.

He noted that candidates who go through the same competitive examination process can eventually have significantly different professional experiences depending on the service they enter.

UPSC officer raises concerns over specialists and generalists

Vlsvss also discussed the role of specialised expertise in government.

He argued that as governance becomes increasingly complex, there is a growing need for professionals with specialised knowledge. However, he questioned whether the existing system provides enough opportunities for specialists to influence decision-making or progress within institutions.

“Then there is the question of expertise. At a time when governance is becoming increasingly complex, the need for specialists has never been greater. Yet, the system continues to be dominated by generalists, with limited scope for specialists to shape decisions and rise within the institution,” he said.

'Work or no work often makes little difference'

Another concern raised by Vlsvss was the relationship between an officer's work, accountability and career progression.

He questioned whether the amount or quality of work undertaken by an employee always has a direct bearing on their professional growth. He also pointed to differences in accountability and professional standing across services.

“There is also the question of satisfaction in government. A system where work or no work often makes little difference. Where accountability is uneven. Where professional standing and career progression can depend more on your service than on what you actually do.”

Why leaving government service can become harder

Vlsvss said that moving out of government service can become increasingly difficult after spending several years within the system.

He explained that starting afresh in another sector can become more challenging with time, while the prolonged experience can also have an impact on an individual's career choices.

“The longer you stay, the harder it can become to step out and start afresh. Over time, these things take a toll. I have enormous respect for the many good people in government who continue to do meaningful work despite the system. But respect for individuals does not require silence about institutional problems.”

For Vlsvss, these experiences eventually prompted him to question whether the trade-offs associated with the career were worth it for him.

UPSC preparation advice: 'It isn’t' the ultimate destination

Vlsvss also shared a message for UPSC aspirants preparing for the highly competitive examination.

He urged candidates to carefully consider the years they may spend preparing for the civil services and not choose the career simply because it is widely viewed as the ultimate professional destination.

“The years spent preparing are some of the prime years of your life. Locking yourself up for years, postponing life and opportunities in pursuit of an examination, is not a decision to be taken lightly. Do not enter the race merely because everyone around you tells you it is the ultimate destination. It isn’t.”

UPSC officer’s post gets mixed reactions online

Vlsvss' comments drew varied reactions from users, with some appreciating his willingness to speak openly about his experience while others questioned whether leaving the system was the right way to address institutional concerns.

One user praised him for sharing his experience, writing: “The courage and honestly is very evident in this message. Thank you for talking about it."

Another user argued that leaving government service would not address the problems within the system.

“Quitting does not change anything. You have to fight against the system, change it and make it professional."

A third user agreed with Vlsvss' comments about specialists, saying: “Rare courage to say this out loud. Your point about generalists crowding out specialists, just when governance needs depth most, is the one that will stay with me."

Another user encouraged him as he begins the next phase of his career: “If you can clear UPSC, you can do well anywhere. Just maintain your optimism, take momentary setbacks in stride and and keep working hard!”


Disclaimer: This article is based on a social media post shared by the individual. The views and statements expressed are his own and have not been independently verified by ET.