A STUDY ON UPSC-CSE ASPIRANTS AND THEIR CONFLICTS IN CLEARING THE PRELIMINARY (LEVEL 1) PHASE OF EXAMINATION

Background: The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most prestigious and competitive examinations in India, requiring extensive preparation and resilience. The Preliminary (Level 1) phase acts as a crucial screening stage, where aspirants often experience significant psychological conflicts such as stress, fear of failure, and pressure from family, society, and financial conditions. Aspirants preparing in hubs like Rajendra Nagar encounter intense competition and uncertainty, which influence both their mental well-being and performance. Aim: The study aims to examine the psychological conflicts experienced byUPSC Civil Services Examination aspirants during the Preliminary stage, with a focus on stress, fear of failure, and socio-economic pressures. It further seeks to analyze the role of stress in preparation, identify major sources of pressure, and assess the perceived importance of having an alternative career plan (Plan B) in enhancing aspirants performance and mental well-being.