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PRATIBHA SETU

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Pratibha Setu is a newly launched initiative by the Government of India aimed at creating a supportive bridge (“Setu”) for meritorious students (“Pratibha”), especially from underprivileged and rural backgrounds, to help them prepare for competitive examinations like the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by UPSC.

What is Pratibha Setu?

Launched by: Ministry of Education, Government of India
Announced in: 2024
Target group: Economically disadvantaged but talented students, particularly from remote, rural, tribal and backward areas.
Type of programme: Mentorship academic support resource access
Mode: Mostly online (digital learning platforms) offline (mentorship hubs in select cities)

Main objectives

  1. Level the playing field for UPSC aspirants from disadvantaged backgrounds.
  2. Provide free or subsidised coaching, study material, test series and guidance.
  3. Create a network of mentors, including IAS/IPS/IRS officers, for guidance and hand-holding.
  4. Build a digital infrastructure to reach aspirants even in far-flung villages.
  5. Facilitate personality development and interview readiness.

How it will help civil services aspirants

Benefit areaHow Pratibha Setu Helps
Study material: Free access to curated notes, NCERTs, current affairs and standard books
Digital learning: Recorded video lectures, doubt-clearing sessions, interactive classes
Mentorship: Real-time guidance from civil servants and subject experts
Practice & testing: Regular mock tests, answer writing evaluation and feedback
Offline support (optional): Tie-ups with coaching centers and libraries in select districts
Peer community: Forums for discussion, motivation and strategy-sharing

Significance in the larger context

Reduces urban-rural divide in UPSC preparation.
Ensures inclusivity and diversity in civil services.
Taps into India’s demographic dividend by nurturing rural talent.
Helps first-generation learners find structured and guided pathways to success.

Potential civil services mains questions

Short notes:
  1. What is the objective of the Pratibha Setu initiative?
  2. How does Pratibha Setu support UPSC aspirants from rural areas?
Long answer:
  1. Discuss how initiatives like Pratibha Setu can democratize access to elite services like UPSC.
  2. Evaluate the role of digital mentorship platforms in shaping future civil servants in India.
Analytical:
  1. “Bridging opportunity gaps through policy innovation is the key to equitable nation-building.” Discuss with reference to Pratibha Setu.
  2. Would you like a crisp infographic-style summary or presentation notes for this?
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