UPSC Interview Questions: What If A Cow Kicks You On The Road? – News18

Among the most prestigious examinations in the country, the civil services examination stands at the top. IAS, IPS, and IFS officers selected through this exam play a vital role in nation-building. While political leaders are the public face of governance, these officers work behind the scenes—offering advice, designing policies, estimating costs, and overseeing implementation (News18 Telugu)

Each year, lakhs of aspirants prepare for these exams, but only a few succeed. Those living in cities have better access to coaching centres, while aspirants from rural areas often lack such resources, sometimes even struggling to find books. Yet, many of them secure top ranks, thanks to the fairness of interview panels who acknowledge their hardships and the journey they’ve undertaken. (News18 Telugu)

It’s a misconception that general knowledge alone helps one score high in the interview. The panel focuses more on whether a candidate has a genuine desire to serve the nation and how they respond to real-life challenges. (News18 Telugu)

To assess these qualities, panels often ask unconventional questions, ones you won’t find in any book. These are designed to test spontaneous thinking and personality traits. (News18 Telugu)

In one such interview, a candidate was asked, “You are walking on the road. Suddenly, a cow comes up from behind and kicks you. What do you do then?” While the question sounds humorous, it tests emotional intelligence and presence of mind under pressure. (News18 Telugu)

The candidate replied, “Sir, I would first look at the cow with respect and say, ‘Madam, this is a road, not a kickboxing ring!’ I would smile, step aside, and let her pass. Then, I’d inform local authorities and refer to guidelines restricting stray animals on roads so that such incidents don’t happen again.” (News18 Telugu)

The panel appreciated this response for several reasons: 1) the candidate remained calm and witty under pressure, 2) showed problem-solving ability, 3) displayed empathy and civic responsibility, and 4) reflected cultural awareness by showing respect to the cow, considered sacred in Hinduism. (News18 Telugu)

Whether it’s a civil services interview or any other, the best answers often come from lived experiences and cultural grounding. It’s not about coaching but about understanding the intent of the question and responding with clarity and authenticity. (News18 Telugu)