Who is the first Indian to pass the ICS exam?
VerifiedAnswer: Surendranath Tagore
Explanation:
Surendranath Tagore holds the historic distinction of being the first Indian to successfully pass the Indian Civil Services (ICS) examination. This remarkable achievement took place in 1864, marking a significant milestone in India's administrative history and breaking the British monopoly over the highest administrative positions in colonial India.
Born on September 10, 1848, in Calcutta (now Kolkata), Surendranath came from the illustrious Tagore family. He was the son of Dwarkanath Tagore and nephew of the great poet Rabindranath Tagore. His educational journey began at Hindu College in Calcutta, where he displayed exceptional academic brilliance from an early age.
The ICS examination was established by the British government in 1855 as a competitive examination to recruit civil servants for the Indian administration. Initially designed to maintain British control over administrative positions, the exam was theoretically open to Indians but practically difficult for them to access due to various barriers including the requirement to travel to London for the examination.
Surendranath traveled to England to pursue higher education and prepare for the ICS examination. He studied at University College London, where he excelled in his studies. Despite facing numerous challenges as an Indian student in Victorian England, including racial prejudice and cultural barriers, he persevered with determination and exceptional intellect.
However, despite passing the examination successfully, Surendranath's journey was not without obstacles. He was initially disqualified from service on technical grounds related to his age, as the British authorities were reluctant to allow Indians into higher administrative positions. This setback, rather than discouraging him, motivated him to pursue other avenues of public service.
Following his return to India, Surendranath became deeply involved in the Indian independence movement and educational reform. He founded the Indian National Association in 1876, which later merged with the Indian National Congress. He also established the Ripon College in Calcutta, which became an important center for higher education and nationalist thought.
Surendranath's achievement opened doors for other Indians to aspire to and succeed in the ICS examination. His success demonstrated that Indians possessed the intellectual capability and competence to hold the highest administrative positions, challenging the colonial narrative of British administrative superiority. This breakthrough inspired many young Indians to pursue careers in civil services and contributed to the gradual Indianization of the administrative system.
Throughout his life, Surendranath remained committed to public service, education, and the cause of Indian self-governance. He served as a professor, journalist, and political leader, earning the title "Rashtraguru" (Teacher of the Nation) for his contributions to Indian society. His legacy continues to inspire civil servants and public leaders in modern India, reminding them of the importance of integrity, dedication, and service to the nation.
