Cultural competency is essential for UPSC interviews as it reflects a candidate's understanding of India's diverse social fabric. Demonstrating awareness of various cultural, religious, and regional nuances can impress the interview panel, indicating the candidate's ability to work effectively in diverse environments. This competency contributes to better communication and rapport-building with citizens from different backgrounds. Showing sensitivity to cultural issues and policies highlights a candidate's preparedness for public service, which is critical for a civil servant's role in governance.