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Women Surge in UPSC: 35% Success Rate Achieved
11 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Women's share in UPSC CSE final list rose from 24% in 2019 to 35% in 2023.
- In 2023, 397 women out of 1,132 candidates successfully cleared the exam.
- Engineering graduates continue to dominate as the largest group of successful candidates.
The UPSC Civil Services Examination has seen a remarkable rise in women's success over the last five years. Minister of State Jitendra Singh informed the Lok Sabha that the percentage of women in the final merit list climbed from 24% in 2019 to 35% in 2023. This translates to 397 women succeeding in 2023, a substantial increase from 220 in 2019.
While there were minor fluctuations, the overall trend indicates greater female participation and achievement. Notably, engineering graduates continue to form the largest segment of successful candidates. In 2023, 554 engineers cleared the exam, significantly outnumbering those from humanities, science, and medical backgrounds.
The data highlights a positive shift towards gender equality in India's premier civil services. The UPSC CSE, a gateway to All India Services like the IAS and IPS, involves a rigorous three-stage selection process. Results for the 2024 examination are currently being compiled.
