In India, about half the youth turn towards government exams every year in the hopes of securing a government job, serving the nation and enjoying the salary perks. So much so, that the aspiration has led to a boom in the country's education industry where tuition classes and private coaching centres guarantee success.
With the number of aspirants so high and the probability of clearing an exam so low, passing these examinations is considered nothing short of an achievement. But doing this your entire life? Is that also equivalent? Well, the internet seems to disagree.
The Story of Charu Pandey
Recently, a Raipur-based aspirant Charu Pandey has been going viral online for clearing 19 government recruitment exams. Pandey began prepping for government jobs at the age of 23 with the simple aim of securing a stable government job. Over the years, she appeared in numerous examinations including SSC CGL, CHSL and MTS along with Railway Recruitment Board exams, SBI and even IBPS tests.
Her consistent attempts across multiple recruitment cycles led to her clearing 19 central government exams. “My family is very happy with this achievement of mine. I am receiving an award for clearing 19 central government exams. Honestly, I never thought I would attempt so many exams, my only aim was to secure at least one government job,” she shared with ANI. Pandey also revealed that while her parents wanted her to pursue teaching or academia due to her mathematics background, she chose to focus on competitive examinations.
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
Her story received mixed reactions on social media. While some recognised her persistence and hard work, others questioned whether what she had done was truly an achievement.
- “What is in it to award? Do govt want to encourage more people to crack multiple government exams? What's her contribution to ward the country or her state that we are awarding her?(sic),” asked a user.
- “Successfully wasted 18 seats which otherwise could have gone to some needy. Giving award for what?” wrote another.
- “Her foolish thing is aiming to clear all government exams. I think she doesn't have passion in a particular sector. Rather to prove i cleared all & give me award,” added one.
- “Clearing 19 government exams shows dedication, but it is not the kind of achievement a nation should glorify as a symbol of progress. how many recruitment exams someone has passed,” a user added.
- “Don't glorify it pls” one wrote.
- “Kudos to u girl....raipuriya sabse bhadiya,” celebrated one.
- “Heartiest congratulations to Charu Pandey!” congratulated another.
Broader Debate on Exam Culture
The debate has also reignited discussion around India’s competitive exam culture, where aspirants often appear for multiple recruitment tests over several years while chasing job security and stability.
