A Journey of Perseverance and Purpose
Aditya Srivastava’s ascent to the pinnacle of the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2023 is a testament to unwavering dedication, strategic preparation, and a deep-seated desire to serve the nation. His journey from the corridors of IIT Kanpur to the esteemed ranks of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) offers invaluable insights for aspirants and observers alike.
Early Life and Academic Excellence
Born in 1998 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Aditya was raised in a middle-class family that valued education and integrity. His father, Ajay Srivastava, served as an Assistant Audit Officer in the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) office, while his mother, Abha Srivastava, is a homemaker.
Aditya’s academic journey began at City Montessori School (CMS), Aliganj branch, where he consistently excelled, securing 97.8% in his 10th grade and 97.5% in his 12th grade examinations. His stellar performance earned him a place at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, where he pursued a dual degree program, obtaining both B.Tech and M.Tech degrees in Electrical Engineering. He graduated with an impressive GPA of 9.7 in B.Tech and a perfect 10 in M.Tech.
Corporate Stint and the Call to Serve
Upon graduation, Aditya commenced his professional career at Goldman Sachs in Bengaluru, working as an analyst. Despite the lucrative prospects, he felt a compelling urge to contribute more directly to societal development. After 15 months in the corporate sector, he resigned to dedicate himself fully to preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
The UPSC Journey: Trials and Triumphs
Aditya’s path to success was marked by perseverance:
- First Attempt (2021): Did not clear the Preliminary Examination.
- Second Attempt (2022): Secured AIR 236, leading to selection in the Indian Police Service (IPS).
- Third Attempt (2023): Achieved AIR 1, topping the Civil Services Examination.
His journey underscores the importance of resilience and learning from setbacks.
Strategic Preparation and Study Approach
Aditya’s preparation strategy was a blend of disciplined study and smart work:
- Foundational Reading: Emphasized NCERT textbooks to build a strong conceptual base.
- Selective Resources: Focused on standard reference books, ensuring depth over breadth.
- Answer Writing Practice: Regularly practiced writing answers to enhance articulation and time management.
- Mock Tests: Participated in test series to simulate exam conditions and receive feedback.
- Current Affairs: Maintained a daily routine of reading newspapers and following relevant magazines.
He also joined the Mains Guidance Program at ForumIAS to refine his answer-writing skills.
Optional Subject: Electrical Engineering
Leveraging his academic background, Aditya chose Electrical Engineering as his optional subject. His proficiency in the subject contributed significantly to his overall score.
UPSC 2023 Marksheet
Aditya’s scores in the UPSC 2023 examination were as follows:
- Essay: 117
- General Studies I: 104
- General Studies II: 132
- General Studies III: 95
- General Studies IV: 143
- Optional Paper I (Electrical Engineering): 148
- Optional Paper II (Electrical Engineering): 160
- Personality Test (Interview): 200
- Total: 1099
Personality Test Insights
During the interview, Aditya was assessed on various parameters, including current affairs awareness, ethical reasoning, and situational judgment. His composed demeanor and thoughtful responses earned him a commendable score of 200 in the personality test.
Motivation and Vision
Aditya’s decision to join the civil services was driven by a desire to effect meaningful change at the grassroots level. He viewed the IAS as a platform to address systemic challenges and contribute to nation-building. His journey reflects a shift from personal ambition to public service.
Current Status and Future Aspirations
Following his selection, Aditya is undergoing training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. His future postings will provide opportunities to implement his vision for inclusive and effective governance.
Conclusion
Aditya Srivastava’s journey from a promising engineer to the top rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination exemplifies the power of determination, strategic planning, and a commitment to public service. His story serves as an inspiration to countless aspirants aiming to make a difference through the civil services
