Unsung Heros: Inspiring Stories Behind Top Rankers in IAS Interviews
The Indian Administrative Services (IAS) interviews Indian Administrative Services interviews do not discriminate based on age, gender, or socio-economic background. Here are some remarkable tales that inspire many aspirants and underline the truth in the statement that perseverance and hard work can overcome any obstacle.
Tina Dabi: First Woman to Top IAS Exam (2015)
Background: Tina Dabi, born in 1993 in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, grew up with a father who is an IAS officer. This early exposure to the civil services clearly set the stage for her journey. Her dedication to academics was evident as she was a top student in her Political Science course at Lady Shri Ram College for Women, Delhi University. This foundation played a crucial role in her eventual success.
Preparation: Tina approached the UPSC exam with dedication, often studying long hours and employing effective strategies, including mock interviews and group studies. She faced the preparation rigorously, honing her abilities to excel in the competitive environment.
Interview Experience: During her interview, Tina’s confidence, clarity of thought, and knowledge of current affairs and governance were deeply impressive. Her passionate narrative about her vision for public service resonated with the interviewers, earning her the top rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2015. Her success inspired countless aspirants, especially young women, to pursue careers in civil services.
Post-Selection: After her selection, Tina has become an advocate for education and women’s empowerment, setting a powerful example for many.
Impact: Tina's story goes beyond her achievement of topping the IAS exam. It symbolizes perseverance, the breaking of gender barriers in a competitive field, and the importance of hard work, proper guidance, and belief in one's capabilities. Her journey serves as a motivation to many who aspire to strive for excellence in their own pursuits.
Anu Kumari: Mother Topping UPSC CSE (2017)
Early Life: Anu Kumari, a mother of a 4-year-old boy, left her comfortable lifestyle for her passion. She married in Sonipat, Haryana, and had an MBA degree in finance but stayed at home as a homemaker. Despite her academic qualifications, she realized it was time to give back to her country and make a meaningful impact.
Preparation: Despite the challenges of raising a child and balancing a hectic household, Anu started preparing for IAS. With support from her family and friends, she diligently collected notes and a UPSC booklist recommended by toppers. She made a second attempt and finally cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination, securing the second position in the IAS interview in 2017.
Impact: Anu's story is a beacon of hope for many women who aspire to serve their country. It highlights the importance of leveraging opportunities and the unwavering support of loved ones in achieving dreams.
Varun Baranwal: Resilient Journey in Engineering (2017)
Early Struggles: Varun Baranwal's journey begins with a tragic event. His father passing away just before his 10th class results left him devastated. Instead of succumbing to grief, he was motivated by his mother and sister to continue his studies while they supported the family.
Academic Pursuit: Varun excelled academically, topping his 10th standard. Despite financial hardships, he did not abandon his studies. With support from teachers and other students, he managed to fund his schooling and became a gold medalist in his university. Varun's determination led him to pursue the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
Success and Aspirations: Varun's hard work paid off as he achieved a remarkable 32nd rank in the UPSC CSE 2017. Currently, he is serving as an Assistant Collector in Himmatnagar, Gujarat. His story is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of multiple challenges.
Further Reading: For more such inspiring stories, refer to the related blog.