Shillong, April 10: Conrad K. Sangma has expressed concern over the low representation of Meghalaya in premier civil services such as the IAS and IPS, and announced a set of measures to support students aspiring to crack the UPSC examination.

Speaking to media persons after felicitating successful matriculation candidates at his residence in Polo, the Chief Minister said that despite notable improvements in the education sector and academic performance, the number of candidates from the state entering civil services remains inadequate.

“We are deeply concerned about the limited number of students qualifying for UPSC and other civil services. This is an area that requires focused attention,” he stated.

To address the issue, Sangma announced that the state government will provide financial assistance to candidates who clear the UPSC preliminary examination. The initiative aims to ease financial burdens and enable aspirants to better prepare for the mains and interview stages.

He further informed that the government, in collaboration with district administrations and various organisations, will enhance coaching, training, and financial support systems for students preparing for competitive examinations.

The Chief Minister also noted that earlier online coaching programmes were disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Efforts are now underway to restructure and revive these initiatives to ensure wider access and effectiveness.

In addition, Sangma lauded the role of religious and community organisations in mentoring and supporting UPSC aspirants, calling their contributions encouraging.

Expressing optimism, he said that these combined efforts are expected to improve the participation and success rate of Meghalaya’s youth in national-level civil services in the coming years.