PM Narendra Modi has launched a new digital platform called ‘Pratibha Setu’ during the 125th episode of Mann Ki Baat. The program is designed to help UPSC applicants who narrowly missed the final merit list.
Students will be able to apply for jobs at PSUs, government agencies, independent companies, and even private enterprises. This program ensures that the years of preparation of competent applicants are not in vain and offers them a second chance.
What is Pratibha Setu Scheme?
Pratibha Setu stands for ‘Professional Resource And Talent Integration – Bridge for Hiring Aspirants’. The digital platform will store the data of candidates who have cleared all stages of the UPSC exam but were not included in the final merit list.
Verified employers can then access this database and hire these candidates for suitable roles. This system allows aspirants to use their hard-earned knowledge and skills in other important fields.
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PM Modi said, “There are thousands of such candidates who are very capable; their hard work is no less than anyone else’s, but they are unable to reach the final list by a small margin. These candidates must prepare anew for other exams. That cost both their time and money. That is why, now a digital platform has been created for such sincere students, and its name is ‘Pratibha Setu’.”
Why This Scheme Matters for UPSC Aspirants?
Every year, lakhs of students prepare for the Civil Services Exam. Only a few hundred make it to the final merit list. This leaves thousands of highly talented candidates with no direct career path.
Through Pratibha Setu, these candidates will no longer be forced to start from scratch. They can now showcase their talent to employers who value UPSC-level preparation. For those who put in years of study but only miss by a few grades, this is a big relief.
PM Modi’s View on UPSC Candidates
While praising the toppers, PM Modi also highlighted the struggles of those who just miss out. He said, “All of us have heard many inspiring stories from the toppers of the Civil Services. These youngsters study under difficult circumstances and through their hard work, get a place in this service, but friends, there is another truth about the UPSC exam.”
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By introducing this scheme, PM Modi has sought to address the “other truth” — that many sincere and talented students are left behind in the race.
Not Entirely New, But More Powerful Now
The idea is not brand new. Previously, it was known as the Public Disclosure Scheme (PDS) and was introduced in 2018. But with the rebranded Pratibha Setu, the platform now gets more visibility and direct backing from the Prime Minister.
It seeks to serve as a career bridge for thousands of applicants who should have access to opportunities on par with the best.