The purpose of the Compulsory Language paper in the UPSC mains is to assess candidates’ proficiency in one of the recognized Indian languages. This examination highlights the importance of effective communication and comprehension skills in governance and administration. It ensures that civil servants can communicate with citizens in their respective regional languages, promoting inclusivity in governance. Additionally, it reflects the linguistic diversity of India and reinforces the need for civil servants to engage with a variety of cultural contexts effectively through proficient language skills.