Dr Jitendra Singh highlights the rising participation of women in the Civil Services; says it reflects expanding opportunities in New India
Civil Services Becoming More Inclusive Across Gender, Region and Social Background, says Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh
Civil Services no longer confined to a select elite few or limited geographies; candidates today emerging from diverse backgrounds, including remote and underprivileged areas; this shift reflects widening access to preparation avenues, driven by technology, transparency and a level playing field created over the past decade, says Dr Jitendra Singh
NEW DELHI, APRIL 18, 2026: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today emphasised the growing participation of women in Civil Services, noting that their share has now crossed 31% and is steadily progressing towards one-third of the total successful candidates. He said this shift reflects the widening access to opportunities, driven by technology, transparency and a level playing field created over the past decade.
Addressing a felicitation ceremony organised by ‘Share India Smile Foundation’ under its “Mission IAS” initiative for achievers of Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the changing gender composition of the Civil Services is one of the most encouraging indicators of India’s evolving socio-economic landscape. He said that about a decade ago, women constituted roughly around 20% of successful candidates, whereas now the share has moved beyond 30%, signalling a decisive transformation.
As per the latest CSE 2025 data, out of 958 recommended candidates, 299 are women, accounting for over 31% of the total. The Minister said this steady rise reflects not only increased aspirations among young women but also improved access to resources, information and opportunities across regions and social segments.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said that Civil Services are no longer confined to a select elite few or limited geographies, and that candidates today are emerging from diverse backgrounds, including remote and underprivileged areas, often without conventional coaching support. He noted that the spread of digital platforms, information access and self-learning tools has significantly reduced dependency on traditional systems.
Referring to the broader changes in the examination landscape, the Minister said that there has been a visible shift across three dimensions, region, gender and socio-economic background. Candidates from smaller towns and varied linguistic backgrounds are now securing top ranks, reflecting a more inclusive and representative system, he said.
The Minister also spoke about the importance of identifying one’s aptitude and aligning it with career choices. He said that reforms such as the National Education Policy 2020 have provided flexibility and freedom to students to pursue subjects based on interest and capability, rather than compulsion.
Highlighting government initiatives, Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to the “Pratibha Setu” platform, which connects candidates who reach the interview stage but do not make the final list with potential employers in the public and private sectors. He said this ensures that talent is not lost and continues to contribute productively.
The Minister further spoke about changes in training and capacity-building of civil servants, including exposure to central ministries before cadre allocation, and continuous learning through Mission Karmayogi. He said governance today requires officers to engage directly with the public, media and political leadership, making adaptability and communication essential skills.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said that integrity remains the core value of public service and must be upheld both in practice and perception. He emphasised that civil servants must remain grounded and continue learning throughout their careers.
The event was attended by Union Minister of State Shri Harsh Malhotra, Member of Parliament Shri Manoj Tiwari, along with senior members of the foundation and distinguished guests from media and academia.
Congratulating the successful candidates, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that they are entering public service at a defining moment in India’s journey towards 2047, and called upon them to contribute with commitment, humility and a spirit of service.
About the Author
