The Andhra Pradesh State Waqf Board has announced a new initiative where selected students will be offered Intermediate education along with IAS/IPS coaching. This move aims to support students from underprivileged backgrounds, particularly those from minority communities, by helping them prepare early for civil services exams. The idea is to start grooming students from the intermediate level itself so they can later compete confidently in exams like UPSC, Group-I, and Group-II.
I felt it was important to write about this because many students in India dream of becoming IAS or IPS officers, but only a few can access proper guidance and coaching—especially at an early stage. Most coaching centres are expensive, and not everyone can afford them. So, when a government-backed body like the Waqf Board steps in with a plan like this, it gives students real hope. It’s not just about academics; it’s about breaking barriers and building confidence in students who may otherwise think civil services is out of reach for them. This kind of support system has the power to change lives and even entire communities.
What the Waqf Board Is Planning
The Waqf Board, in collaboration with the Minority Welfare Department, will identify deserving students who can benefit from this integrated education-plus-coaching model. These students will be provided:
- Admission into Intermediate courses (MPC, BiPC, MEC, etc.)
- Specially designed IAS/IPS foundation coaching along with regular classes
- Study materials and guidance from experienced faculty
- Access to guest lectures, motivational sessions, and mock exams
Initially, the programme is expected to begin in a few select colleges in Andhra Pradesh, with the possibility of expanding later based on its success.
Who Can Apply and How It Will Work
As per early updates, the scheme will be open to meritorious students from minority communities, especially those who show potential in academics but face financial challenges. Students will be selected based on:
- Class 10 marks or entrance tests (to be announced)
- Family income and background verification
- Interest in civil services and public administration
The goal is to create an early pipeline of motivated students who are serious about cracking UPSC and state-level services. By combining their regular Intermediate syllabus with early UPSC basics like Indian polity, economy, geography, and current affairs, the programme gives them a strong head start.
Why This Matters for Students
This move is important for several reasons:
- Most students only start preparing for UPSC after graduation, often too late without foundation
- Coaching for civil services is expensive and mostly limited to big cities
- Minority students are underrepresented in civil services; early exposure can change this
- It gives confidence to families who otherwise don’t think of civil services as a reachable goal
It’s also a big step in addressing educational inequality. By offering this at the Intermediate level, the programme may inspire many other state boards and welfare departments to launch similar initiatives.
Government’s Role and Community Involvement
The success of such a programme depends not just on coaching but also on consistent support—mentors, role models, counselling, and follow-ups. The Minority Welfare Department and the Waqf Board plan to involve:
- Experienced civil servants as mentors
- NGOs and educationists for planning and feedback
- Community outreach to inform families and students
Officials have also hinted that hostel facilities, scholarships, and career guidance will be provided, making it a holistic support system rather than just a classroom coaching model.
