NATIONAL: Pratibha Setu: Bridging Talent for UPSC Aspirants
In the 125th edition of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the Pratibha Setu portal, a transformative initiative to bolster employment prospects for UPSC aspirants who narrowly miss final selection.
This digital platform aims to harness untapped talent, aligning with national objectives for youth empowerment. Simultaneously, Modi addressed the severe challenges posed by natural calamities across India.
Pratibha Setu: A Lifeline for UPSC Aspirants
The Pratibha Setu portal, launched by the Union Public Service Commission, serves as a repository for profiles of candidates who excelled in all stages of the rigorous Civil Services Examination but fell short of the final merit list.
By enabling private and public sector organizations to access this talent pool, the platform facilitates career opportunities for over 10,000 high-caliber individuals. This initiative mitigates the resource-intensive burden of repeated exam preparations.
Addressing the Civil Services Challenge
Modi underscored the formidable nature of the UPSC examinations, recognized as among the most competitive globally, requiring substantial time and financial investment.
Candidates missing the final list by narrow margins often face significant setbacks. Pratibha Setu bridges this gap, ensuring their efforts translate into viable professional pathways.
Monsoon Devastation and National Resilience
The Prime Minister expressed profound concern over the relentless monsoon-driven floods and landslides devastating multiple states, resulting in loss of life and widespread displacement.
He lauded the tireless efforts of the NDRF, SDRF, armed forces, and community volunteers in rescue and relief operations. Technologies like thermal cameras and drones have expedited these critical interventions.
Jammu and Kashmir’s Sporting Milestones
Despite natural adversities, Jammu and Kashmir showcased remarkable progress, highlighted by the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival at Srinagar’s Dal Lake, engaging over 800 athletes nationwide.
The region also hosted its first day-night cricket match in Pulwama, symbolizing cultural and social advancement. Modi praised the near-equal participation of women athletes, reflecting inclusivity.
Celebrating Athletic Talent
The Khelo India Water Sports Festival, held from August 21 to 23, 2025, saw Madhya Pradesh lead the medal tally, followed by Haryana and Odisha.
Modi engaged with athletes like Rasmita Sahoo and Mohsin Ali, whose achievements underscore the region’s burgeoning sports ecosystem. These events signal a transformative shift in Jammu and Kashmir’s socio-cultural landscape.
Call for Swadeshi Pride
Modi urged citizens to embrace ‘swadeshi’ products during the festive season, reinforcing the ‘Vocal for Local’ ethos to bolster self-reliance amid strained US trade relations.
This call aligns with broader efforts to fortify India’s economic and cultural identity. The Prime Minister’s address encapsulated a dual focus on resilience and opportunity.