The Centre for Career Guidance & Development (CCG&D), Integral University, Lucknow, in association with Lukmaan IAS, New Delhi, organized a seminar titled “Pathways to Indian Civil Services: Insights and Way Forward” on 20 January 2026 at the Central Auditorium, Integral University, Lucknow. The seminar aimed to guide students aspiring to the Indian Civil Services (IAS/IPS/IFS and allied services) by providing strategic insights, clarity of purpose, and first-hand experiences from serving civil servants and experienced mentors.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation, with 350 students registering and 325 students actively attending, reflecting the strong interest among students in pursuing careers in the civil services.
The seminar was graced by distinguished dignitaries and speakers, including Shri Sumit Sudhakar Ramteke, IPS (Assistant Commissioner of Police, Kanpur); Shri Abhilash Mishra, IAS (Municipal Commissioner, Indore, Madhya Pradesh); Shri Rahul Dhote, IAS (Deputy Secretary, Government of Madhya Pradesh); Shri Mahendra Singh Tomar, IAS (District Magistrate, Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh); Mr. Salamuddin Ansari (Director, Lukmaan IAS, New Delhi); and Prof. Furqan Qamar (Chief Advisor to the Hon’ble Chancellor, Integral University, Lucknow).
The programme commenced with the formal welcome of the dignitaries, followed by an introductory address highlighting the importance of the civil services as a career embodying leadership, responsibility, and nation-building. Dr. Zishan Raza Khan, Director, CCG&D, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the university’s commitment to empowering students with informed career choices and the importance of early and structured preparation for competitive examinations such as the UPSC. Mrs. Tejal Khandelwal, Faculty Member, Lukmaan IAS, presented the vision of the seminar, focusing on integrating civil services preparation alongside graduation.
The distinguished speakers shared valuable insights drawn from their personal UPSC journeys and administrative experiences. They emphasized discipline, consistency, ethical values, effective use of NCERTs, structured study plans, and adherence to the UPSC syllabus. The speakers encouraged students to overcome perceived barriers, remain resilient in the face of failure, and adopt a focused, value-driven, and long-term approach to preparation.
The seminar concluded with an interactive Q&A session, during which students actively engaged with the speakers and mentors on preparation strategies, time management alongside academics, optional subjects, and long-term career planning. The Vote of Thanks was presented by Ms. Shahana Khan (CCG&D), who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Chancellor, university authorities, distinguished speakers, the Lukmaan IAS team, faculty members, coordinators, and students for their valuable support and participation.
Overall, the seminar proved to be highly informative and inspiring, reinforcing the message that success in the civil services is a continuous process of learning, reflection, and improvement, driven by dedication, consistency, and ethical commitment towards society.