Recent discussions have emerged regarding the financial backgrounds of candidates selected under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) quota in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2025. This article delves into the details surrounding this issue.

As the National Testing Agency (NTA) faces scrutiny, the focus has shifted to the UPSC, not due to paper leaks, but concerning the EWS quota. Investigations into the financial situations of several selected candidates have unveiled noteworthy findings.

A report from a prominent news source indicates that a significant portion of the 104 candidates chosen under the EWS quota had attended costly coaching centers, enrolled in private educational institutions, or hailed from business-oriented families.

Key Findings from the Report

The report highlights several surprising revelations. Out of those selected under the EWS quota, 67 candidates had received training at prestigious coaching institutes with fees amounting to lakhs of rupees. Furthermore, 46 candidates were found to have attended private schools recognized for their high tuition costs. Additionally, 28 candidates were identified as coming from business families, and around 10 had previous employment experience in the corporate sector.

In terms of educational qualifications, many candidates had graduated from some of the nation's leading institutions. The report notes that approximately 14 candidates completed their degrees at esteemed universities such as IITs, NITs, JNU, and Delhi University. However, it also acknowledges that some candidates do meet the EWS criteria.

Understanding the EWS Quota

The EWS quota was established in 2019 through the 103rd Constitutional Amendment. This provision allows economically disadvantaged individuals from the general category to benefit from a 10 percent reservation in educational institutions and government employment. The EWS reservation is designed for candidates who do not belong to reserved categories like SC, ST, or OBC but are economically disadvantaged. Currently, families with an annual income below ₹8 lakh and who meet the asset-related criteria set by the government can obtain an EWS certificate to access these benefits.