UPSC Interview Panel Members: Introduction, Background and Insight

PWOnlyIAS December 04, 2023 05:38 18266 0

Explore UPSC interview panel members' backgrounds. Personalise interactions for a lasting impression. And a plan for Success!

The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) Interview Board plays a critical role in the final stage of the Civil Services Examination. The UPSC Interview Panel consists of highly experienced and distinguished individuals selected by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). These panel members are experts from diverse fields, including administration, academia, and other professional sectors, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the candidate’s personality. The panel’s primary objective is to assess the candidate’s suitability for a career in civil services, focusing on traits like decision-making, analytical skills, communication abilities, and ethical values. Each panel is chaired by a UPSC board member, ensuring the interview process is unbiased, fair, and professional.

UPSC Interview Panel Members: Their Distinct Backgrounds

Panel members of UPSC Interview have diverse backgrounds, including academia, government administration, and the private sector.
This diversity enhances the evaluation process by bringing different perspectives into play.

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Selection Criteria for Interview Panel Members: Qualifications, Expertise, and Experience

Interview Panel members are selected based on their qualifications, experience, and expertise.
They often possess advanced degrees, professional certifications, or extensive domain-specific experience.

Fostering Inclusivity: Cultivating Diversity Among UPSC Interview Panel Members

The Commission places a strong emphasis on diversity within the panel.
Factors like gender, religion, and regional representation are considered to ensure an inclusive and equitable assessment environment, free from bias.

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Guiding Leadership: The Role and Responsibilities of UPSC Interview Panel Members

The UPSC Interview Board’s primary duty is to conduct interviews for candidates who have successfully passed the written examination.
These interviews are crucial for candidates aspiring to join prestigious services such as the IAS (Indian Administrative Service) and IPS (Indian Police Service).
During the interviews, panel members of UPSC Interview assess candidates in areas like social traits, current affairs knowledge, and intellectual capabilities.

Significance of the UPSC Interview and Its Panel Members

The UPSC Civil Services interview holds immense significance, contributing 275 marks out of a total of 2025.
UPSC Interview Panel Members, consisting of five members with a chairperson (Usually UPSC Chairman or member) plays a crucial role in evaluating candidates.
These experts assess candidates on social traits, current affairs knowledge, and intellectual capabilities, ultimately determining their suitability for public service.
Candidates are provided information about the interview board in advance, and it is advisable for them to research and gather information about the board members before the interview.

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Article 316: Provisions for appointment and term of office of Interview Panel Members

Appointment Dynamics: Appointing Commission and UPSC Interview Panel Members

The President appoints the Chairman and members of Public Service Commissions for the Union and Joint Commissions.
State Governors appoint members for State Commissions.

Expertise and Experience: Qualifications for Commission and Panel Members

Approximately half of the Commission members must have a minimum of ten years’ experience in either the Central or State Government.

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Acting Chairman: Ensuring Leadership Continuity

When the Chairman is absent or temporarily unable to perform their duties, another Commission member, appointed by the President or State Governor, steps in.

Term of office: Tenure guidelines for commission and UPSC Interview Panel Members

Commission members serve a term of six years from their appointment date or until they reach a specific age limit, whichever comes earlier.
The age limit is 65 years for the Union Public Service Commission and 62 years for State or Joint Public Service Commissions.

Resignation of Commission and Panel members of Interview:

Members can resign by submitting a written resignation to the President (for Union/Joint Commissions) or the State Governor (for State Commissions).

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What is the eligibility for reappointment for commission and Interview panel members?

After their term ends, members cannot be reappointed to the same position, ensuring a rotation of members.

Understanding the Significance of Knowing UPSC Interview Panel Members

UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) interviews are a critical part of the selection process for civil services, and understanding the interview panel members can make a significant difference in a candidate’s performance and overall experience.

UPSC interview: Building Familiarity with Panel Members
- Knowing who the UPSC Interview Panel Members are can help candidates become familiar with the people who will be evaluating them. This familiarity can reduce anxiety and nervousness during the interview.
Understanding distinct backgrounds of UPSC Interview Panel Members
- Understanding the backgrounds and expertise of the panel members is valuable. Candidates can tailor their responses to align with the panel’s areas of knowledge and interest.
How can researching UPSC interview panel members help?
- By researching the UPSC Interview Panel Members, candidates may be able to anticipate the types of questions they are likely to ask. This allows for better preparation and a more focused approach to the interview.
Why is it critical for interviewees to establish a connection and rapport with UPSC Interview Panel Members?
- Finding common ground with panel members can help build a connection and rapport during the interview. This can create a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
Strategic Preparation: Knowing interests of interview Panel members
- Knowing the panel’s interests and expertise allows candidates to strategically prepare for the interview. They can highlight their own strengths in areas that align with the panel’s background.
Boosting Confidence: The Impact of Preparation and Familiarity with Panel Members
- Confidence is essential during a UPSC interview. Being well-prepared and informed about the panel members can boost a candidate’s confidence, leading to a more composed performance.
Respectful Engagement: Researching Panel Members for a Positive Impression
- Researching the UPSC Interview Panel Members and addressing them by name demonstrates respect and courtesy. This can leave a positive impression and show that the candidate has made an effort to understand and acknowledge the interviewers.

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Discover the Names and Backgrounds of UPSC Interview Panel Members

1. Dr. Manoj Soni – Chairman

Dr. Manoj Soni is currently the Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission.
Prior to this role, he served as a Member of the Union Public Service Commission from June 28, 2017, to May 15, 2023.
Dr. Soni held three terms as Vice-Chancellor, including two consecutive terms at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU) from August 1, 2009, to July 31, 2015, and one term at The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (The MSU of Baroda) from April 2005 to April 2008.
He is a scholar of Political Science with expertise in International Relations Studies and taught International Relations at Sardar Patel University (SPU), Vallabh Vidyanagar from 1991 to 2016.
Dr. Soni’s doctoral research focused on the “Post-Cold War International Systemic Transition and Indo-U.S. Relations,” which was published as a book titled “Understanding the Global Political Earthquake” by Ashgate Publishing Limited in 1998.
He received several awards, including the honorary title of “Honorary Mayor-President of the City of Baton Rouge” in 2013 and the World Education Congress Global Award for Distance Learning Leadership from the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants in 2015.
Dr. Soni has served on governing boards of higher education institutions and a quasi-judicial body regulating fee structures for un-aided professional institutions in Gujarat.

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2. Mr. Rajiv Nayan Choubey

Mr. Rajiv Nayan Choubey, born on January 28, 1959, in Patna, India.
Holds a postgraduate degree in Physics from St. Stephens College, New Delhi.
Also possesses a Master’s Degree in Social Policy & Planning from the London School of Economics, United Kingdom.
Began his professional journey by joining the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1981, allocated to the Tamil Nadu Cadre.
Served in Tamil Nadu from 1981 to 1998, holding various roles, including Collector of Kanyakumari and Madurai, and as the Executive Director of the Industrial Development Corporation of Tamil Nadu, and Secretary in the Finance Department.
Joined the Government of India in 1998, serving as Director, and later promoted to Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, where he worked for seven years.
Also held positions as the Principal Advisor in the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), and Director General of Hydrocarbons under the Ministry of Petroleum.
Appointed as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Power and subsequently promoted to Special Secretary, Power.
Served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation from June 5, 2015, to January 31, 2019, contributing to drafting the New Civil Aviation Policy and implementing reforms in the aviation sector.
Became a full-time Member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on February 1, 2019, following his retirement.

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3. LT. Gen. Raj Shukla

With a military career spanning over four decades in the Indian Army, the officer has had extensive field experience.
He commanded an Infantry Brigade in Counter Insurgency Operations, the Baramulla Division along the Line of Control in Kashmir, and a Pivot Corps along the Western Borders.
The officer is an alumnus of several prestigious military institutions, including the Defence Services Staff College, the College of Defence Management, and the National Defence College.
He served in the Military Operations Directorate, focusing on Doctrines and Force Structuring. Additionally, he held the position of Director General, Perspective Planning, addressing issues related to Military Futures and Force Modernization.
He also served as the Commandant of the Army War College, a notable training establishment and think tank.
A professional aviator and an eloquent speaker, General Shukla has a strong interest in strategic-military affairs, with numerous publications and extensive participation in talks and seminars in India and abroad.
As the 22nd General Officer Commanding-In-Chief of the Indian Army’s Training Command (ARTRAC), he contributed significantly to India’s Strategic-Military Futures, Technological Innovation, Professional Military Education, Capacity Building, Operational Readiness, and Civil-Military Integration.
In recognition of his outstanding service, he was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal on Republic Day 2021.
He was appointed as a Member of the UPSC on July 18, 2022, by the Honourable President.

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4. Smt. Preeti Sudan

Smt. Preeti Sudan, an IAS Officer of the 1983 batch from the Andhra Pradesh cadre, retired as Union Health Secretary in July 2020.
With nearly 37 years of experience in various government administrative roles, she has a well-rounded background.
During her tenure as Union Health Secretary, she played a critical role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the last six months.
She also served as Secretary in the Department of Food & Public Distribution and held positions in the Women & Child Development and Defence Ministries.
In state administration, her responsibilities included Finance & Planning, Disaster Management, Tourism, and Agriculture.
Smt. Sudan holds an M. Phil in Economics and an M.Sc. in Social Policy and Planning from LSE.
Her notable contributions include initiating flagship programs like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Ayushman Bharat, as well as supporting legislation on the National Medical Commission, Allied Health Professionals Commission, and the ban on E-cigarettes.
She also worked as a Consultant with the World Bank and held leadership positions in international health organizations such as Chair of COP-8 of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and Chair of the Global Digital Health Partnership.
On November 29, 2022, she assumed the role of a Member of the Union Public Service Commission.

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5. Ms. Suman Sharma

UPSC interview Panel Members

Ms. Suman Sharma is a Post Graduate in Organic Chemistry from Meerut University, Uttar Pradesh, with a Bronze Medal distinction, and holds an M.B.A. degree from the University of Hull, United Kingdom.
She has pursued courses on Budget Forecasting at Duke University, North Carolina, USA, and completed management programs at MDI, Gurugram, IIM Bangalore, and IBFD in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
As an Officer of the Indian Revenue Service (Income Tax) from the 1990 Batch, Ms. Suman Sharma boasts a career of over 30 years, holding key positions within the Income Tax Department and the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT).
She has a strong background in International Taxation and Transfer Pricing.
Outside her cadre, she served as the Additional Director General of Foreign Trade in the Ministry of Commerce, New Delhi, where she was responsible for export promotion schemes for northern India-based exporters and played a significant role in formulating the New Foreign Trade Policy.
She also served as the Managing Director of the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), a CPSE under the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy. Under her leadership, SECI achieved ‘Mini Ratna’ status and experienced significant growth.
Ms. Sharma was a Member of various Committees involved in policy reforms in the power sector.
She also served as a Member of the Board of Governors at the Indian Institute of Management, Tiruchirappalli.
On May 25, 2023, she assumed the position of a full-time Member of the Union Public Service Commission.

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6. Shri Bidyut B. Swain

Shri Bidyut B. Swain joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1988, serving in the Gujarat Cadre.
Between 1989 and 2018, he held various roles in the Government of Gujarat, both at the district and state levels.
Notable positions during this period included CEO of the Gujarat Infrastructure Development Board, Secretary of Primary Education, Industries Commissioner, VC & MD of the Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation, and Chief Electoral Officer of Gujarat State.
In 2018, he transitioned to the Government of India as Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce, responsible for Special Economic Zones, trade negotiations with CIS countries, export insurance, and international roles like Chairperson of Kimberley Protocol and Commissioner General of India at World Expo-Dubai.
Promoted to Special Secretary in the Department of Commerce in 2020, his responsibilities expanded to Trade Policy Division, CIS & OCEANIA Divisions, and he took on an additional role as Director General of Trade Remedies.
From January 2021 to May 2023, he served as the Secretary in the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
Shri Swain holds an MA degree in Political Science from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, and a Masters in Public Policy & Management from The Institute of Social Studies, The Hague, The Netherlands.
He has a passion for collecting autographed books and Contemporary Indian Art.

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7. Dr. Dinesh Dasa

Dr. Dasa holds a Ph.D. in Forest Laws and Sustainable Development from Gujarat National Law University, Gandhinagar, and an M.Sc. in Forestry (Agroforestry and Ecology) from Gujarat Agriculture University, Navsari.
He served as the Chairman of the Gujarat Public Service Commission from February 2016 to January 2022.
Dr. Dasa also held the position of Chairman of the Standing Committee of All India Public Service Commissions from December 2020 to January 2022. This committee, comprising 9 members, represents all 29 State Public Service Commissions and coordinates with the UPSC on various issues.
He chaired the Drafting Committee responsible for creating a model syllabus and exam pattern for Civil Service Exams across the states. Notably, the draft submitted by the Dinesh Dasa committee was broadly accepted by all 29 Public Service Commissions during the 20th National Conference of the Chairpersons of State PSCs held in Goa on January 12th and 13th, 2018.

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UPSC Interview Panel Members FAQs

Understanding the interview panel members helps you become familiar with their backgrounds and expertise, which can be valuable during the interview.

It allows candidates to anticipate relevant questions and tailor their responses, building a connection and rapport with interviewers.

Candidates can gather information on the members' qualifications, work experiences, and areas of expertise.

Addressing interviewers by name and demonstrating respect and courtesy can leave a positive impression and build rapport.

Yes, strategic preparation based on panel members' interests can boost candidates' confidence and positively impact their interview performance.

Yes, the UPSC interview holds immense significance, contributing 275 marks out of a total of 2025, and is a crucial factor in evaluating candidates for civil services.

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UPSC Interview Panel Members: Introduction, Background and Insight

UPSC Interview Panel Members: Their Distinct Backgrounds

Selection Criteria for Interview Panel Members: Qualifications, Expertise, and Experience

Fostering Inclusivity: Cultivating Diversity Among UPSC Interview Panel Members

Guiding Leadership: The Role and Responsibilities of UPSC Interview Panel Members

Significance of the UPSC Interview and Its Panel Members

Article 316: Provisions for appointment and term of office of Interview Panel Members

Appointment Dynamics: Appointing Commission and UPSC Interview Panel Members

Expertise and Experience: Qualifications for Commission and Panel Members

Acting Chairman: Ensuring Leadership Continuity

Term of office: Tenure guidelines for commission and UPSC Interview Panel Members

Resignation of Commission and Panel members of Interview:

What is the eligibility for reappointment for commission and Interview panel members?

Understanding the Significance of Knowing UPSC Interview Panel Members

Discover the Names and Backgrounds of UPSC Interview Panel Members

UPSC Interview Panel Members FAQs

Why is it important to know about UPSC interview panel members?

How can the knowledge of panel members benefit candidates?

What should candidates research about panel members?

How can personalization with panel members be helpful during the interview?

Does knowing the panel members improve interview performance?

Is it necessary for UPSC interview Panel members to conduct interviews as part of the selection process?

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