UPSC Launches ‘Pratibha Setu’ to Connect Near-Merit Candidates with Employers

New Delhi, June 22, 2025 : In a move to empower deserving candidates who narrowly missed final selection, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has launched Pratibha Setu, previously known as the Public Disclosure Scheme. The initiative aims to connect high-performing individuals with potential employers across government and private sectors.

The scheme targets candidates who successfully cleared all stages of major UPSC examinations but did not make it to the final merit list. These include exams such as the Civil Services, Engineering Services, Indian Forest Service (IFoS), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Medical Services, Combined Geo-Scientist, Combined Defence Services (CDS), and Indian Economic/Statistical Services (IES/ISS). Over 10,000 such candidates are now part of this new recruitment initiative.

Under Pratibha Setu, interested employers – from both central government bodies and private enterprises – can register on a designated portal. Upon verification, they are granted login credentials to access the candidates’ soft biodata, which includes qualifications and contact details.

The programme, which had been operating under the name Public Disclosure Scheme since 2018, has been rebranded to reflect a broader vision. UPSC’s decision to rename it Pratibha Setu—literally meaning "Bridge of Talent"—emphasises its role as a structured and transparent recruitment mechanism.

“This initiative offers a second career pathway for aspirants who are almost as meritorious as those finally recommended,” UPSC noted. The platform not only enhances employment opportunities for these individuals but also offers recruiters a curated pool of highly qualified candidates.

Participation in Pratibha Setu is voluntary and limited to those who explicitly express their willingness. By doing so, UPSC ensures consent-based data sharing, maintaining both transparency and privacy.

Through this initiative, UPSC aims to ensure that exceptional talent does not go unrecognised simply due to the limited number of vacancies. By bridging the gap between qualified candidates and employers, Pratibha Setu affirms the Commission’s commitment to supporting India’s skilled human resource beyond the confines of final selection lists.

Source: Tatva India