New Delhi: Calling the rise in women’s representation a marker of India’s evolving social fabric, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said that over 31% of candidates recommended in the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025 are women.

He was addressing a felicitation ceremony for the successful candidates of CSE 2025, where he highlighted that out of 958 recommended candidates, 299 are women - a significant jump from nearly 20% a decade ago. The trend, he noted, reflects expanding access to opportunities and a more inclusive ecosystem for aspirants across the country.

Dr Singh underlined that the profile of civil services aspirants is undergoing a shift, with increasing participation from smaller towns and non-elite backgrounds. He attributed this change to improved digital access, greater transparency in the examination process, and the rise of self-study ecosystems that have reduced dependence on traditional coaching centres.

Referring to governance reforms, he spoke about the “Pratibha Setu” initiative, which aims to bridge the gap for candidates who reach advanced stages of the examination but do not make the final merit list, by linking them with suitable employment opportunities.

Emphasising the need for integrity and dedication in public service, Dr Singh urged the selected candidates to uphold the values of accountability and commitment as they step into administrative roles. He added that the increasing diversity within the civil services is making the system more representative and aligned with the aspirations of a changing India.

BI Bureau