Aayushi Bansal secured All India Rank 7 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, marking a significant milestone in a journey characterised by resilience, strategic evolution, and deep-rooted purpose. Her story—from academic brilliance and corporate success to a determined pursuit of public service—is not just inspiring; it is instructive for aspirants at all stages.

Early Life, Education, and Personal Foundation

Aayushi hails from Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. She completed her schooling at Carmel Convent School, where she topped Class 10 with a perfect 10 CGPA, and then achieved 96.8 percent in Class 12 from Delhi Public School, RK Puram in New Delhi. She earned a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kanpur, graduating in 2020, and was honoured with the institute’s Gold Medal for Best All-Rounder Student.

Her academic journey embodies a blend of excellence and balanced engagement—she was not only a high scorer but also a student leader, having initiated the first female street play team and served as a Student Senator at IIT. These experiences laid the groundwork for her interest in governance and societal issues.

A Personal Journey Marked by Loss and Determination

Aayushi endured a profound personal loss when her father passed away in a road accident when she was just ten years old. Her mother, Radha Bansal, an LIC employee, became her sole pillar of support. Aayushi often credits her mother’s resilience for the emotional strength she brought into every phase of her journey.

Multiple Attempts: Learning, Evolving, Succeeding

Aayushi’s UPSC story spans three full-fledged attempts:

• 2022 (First Attempt): Secured AIR 188, currently serving in IPS training.
• 2023 (Second Attempt): Improved markedly to AIR 97.
• 2024 (Third Attempt): Reached new heights with AIR 7, reflecting years of refinement and focus.

Her journey underscores a powerful truth: UPSC success often unfolds not through sudden leaps, but through steady, iterative improvement.

Professional Stints Giving Shape to Purpose

After graduating, Aayushi worked at Goldman Sachs during an internship in 2019 and later joined McKinsey & Company in a full-time role. However, by mid-2021, she made a decisive shift—leaving her promising corporate career to pursue UPSC full-time. This leap of faith underscored her commitment to public service.

An Unexpected Optional: Sociology as an Anchor

Against the grain of her engineering background, Aayushi chose Sociology as her optional subject. She believed its concise syllabus complemented General Studies and offered clarity in themes like social justice, gender, and governance. Her growing interest in theatre and societal themes further deepened her engagement with the subject.

Preparation Strategy: Structure, Reflection, Consistency

Her preparation evolved across distinct phases:

Prelims Preparation

• Built foundations with NCERTs and standard texts.
• Regular practice through mock series and error logs.
• Monthly current affairs compilations to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Mains Preparation

• Daily answer-writing discipline with structured formats.
• Extensive use of charts, diagrams, examples, and reports in answers.
• Weekly essays with multidimensional analysis.
• Revision of static and current content in cyclical intervals.

Interview Preparation

• Mock sessions at coaching platforms to simulate real scenarios.
• Thorough preparation on personal DAF with emphasis on engineering, social interests, and professional journey.
• Focus on depth, clarity, emotional intelligence, and calm demeanour.

Mental Balance and Holistic Growth

Aayushi maintained a purposeful balance:

• Cultivated interests in theatre related to social themes and maintained physical fitness through swimming.
• Recognised the importance of mental well-being and self-care to sustain through the rigours of preparation.
• Received continued emotional and moral support from family, which she often cites as foundational to her routine and perseverance.

Traits That Shaped Her Success

1. Resilience: Three attempts, each marked by steady growth, culminating in AIR 7.
2. Strategic Awareness: Selections like Sociology and tactical breaks from corporate life showcased foresight.
3. Intellectual Curiosity: Blending engineering logic with sociological depth gave her answers clarity and breadth.
4. Emotional Poise: Her interview style was marked by composure and maturity beyond her years.

Lessons for Aspirants

• Iterative improvement matters: Use each attempt to refine strategy and mindset.
• Align optional with interest: Aayushi’s Sociology choice highlights the power of alignment with one’s personality.
• Practice answer-writing daily: Structured, analytical content is critical for Mains success.
• Balance rigor with repose: Mental health matters as much as syllabus coverage.
• Own your story in interviews: Authenticity backed by preparation shines through.

Legacy: Redefining Possibilities for Women Aspirants

Aayushi is part of a remarkable trend in 2024: women holding three of the top seven ranks. Her journey—from IIT to McKinsey, from IPS to IAS in training—broadens the narrative around women’s roles in public leadership today.

Conclusion

Aayushi Bansal’s climb from rank 188 to rank 7 across three UPSC CSE attempts is a compelling narrative of perseverance, strategy, and self-actualisation. Her story affirms that UPSC success is often a marathon, not a sprint—and that each setback can be fuel for greater success.

As her status transitions from aspirant to administrator, her blend of analytical depth, social insight, emotional intelligence, and lived resilience offers a roadmap for thousands of future civil servants.

A Story of Resilience, Strategy, and Self-Belief

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is often termed the toughest exam in India, challenging not just knowledge but also mental resolve. Securing All India Rank 6 in the 2024 cycle, Komal Punia’s journey exemplifies grit, introspection, and an unwavering belief in her ability to serve.

Early Life, Academic Excellence, and Family Background

Komal Punia hails from Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, and grew up in a farming family. She attended Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, excelling academically with a Class 12 score of 97 percent. She earned her B.Tech in Engineering Physics from IIT Roorkee in 2021, demonstrating not only intellectual rigour but also an aptitude for research and innovation typical of a premier technical institution.

Three Attempts: Staying the Course with Clarity

Komal began her UPSC journey in 2022 shortly after graduating. She screened through the Prelims but missed qualifying for the Mains. In her second attempt (2023), she cleared all stages and secured AIR 474, earning a place in the Indian Police Service. Nonetheless, she chose to forgo her place in the foundation course to reappear in the examination—this time with a clear goal of becoming an Indian Administrative Service officer. Her persistence paid off in 2024 when she secured AIR 6.

Strategic Thinking: Why Physics as Optional

Komal opted for Physics—her core academic subject—as her optional subject. While Physics is considered challenging, her strong academic grounding from IIT helped her tackle it effectively. She knew this choice would demand sustained effort, but she believed a subject aligned with her strengths would give her an edge.

Preparation Framework and Methodologies

Komal’s preparation was methodical and data-driven, with clearly defined strategies across all stages:

Prelims

• Reliance on NCERT books and standard texts to build clarity in basic concepts.
• Consistent engagement with Previous Year Questions (PYQs) to understand exam patterns.
• Regularly attending test series and revisiting errors to close knowledge gaps.

Mains

• Emphasis on structured answer writing with clarity, analytical depth, and coherence.
• Preparation of precise, short notes for efficient revision, enabling quick recall during exams.
• Depth of thought, including her Physics optional, was a distinctive strength.

Interview

• Despite being in IPS training, she maintained focus on her Detailed Application Form (DAF), current affairs, and personal interests such as sign language.
• In mock sessions, she emphasized mental stamina and a calm presence, traits visible during her final interview.

Pillars of Mental Clarity and Discipline

A key aspect of Komal’s success was mental resilience. She maintained consistent study habits, even on low-energy days, believing that small, steady progress matters more than occasional intense bursts. She also took strategic breaks to rejuvenate, resisting burnout and sustaining motivation .

Personal Traits and Core Attributes

Three key traits defined Komal’s approach:

1. Resilience: Her journey—marked by early setbacks, an IPS selection, and then AIR 6—demonstrates grit.
2. Strategic Self-Awareness: Whether it was her optional subject or the decision to skip the IPS foundation, she acted with intent.
3. Emotional Intelligence and Calm: Her controlled demeanor during the interview reflected emotional preparedness and maturity.

Lessons for Aspirants

• Do not be deterred by initial failures: Komal’s progress across all three attempts shows adaptability and perseverance.
• Choose optional based on strength and interest: A subject aligned with your core skills can be advantageous.
• Answer writing and revision are non-negotiable: Theory must be converted into articulated and coherent text.
• Mind over fatigue: Breaks, hobbies, and emotional support add endurance to long preparation phases.
• Mock interviews build confidence: Simulations under strain help prepare for the actual interview environment.

A Beacon for Women Aspirants

In 2024, women secured three of the top six ranks in the UPSC CSE, including Komal. Her story from a village in Saharanpur to the IAS merit list highlights the growing representation of women in higher services and signals an expanding space for diverse leadership.

Conclusion

Komal Punia’s journey—leaving behind her early success in the IPS, choosing Physics as her optional, and securing AIR 6 in her third attempt—is a masterclass in conviction, planning, and emotional resilience. Her example teaches that one’s commitment to the goal, combined with methodical preparation and mental balance, can help transform dreams into reality.

Her story is not only inspiring but instructive for aspirants nationwide: success in UPSC is built over time through adaptability, staying aligned with one’s strengths, and nurturing emotional endurance. Komal Punia’s experience underscores that consistent, purpose-driven effort ultimately leads to success.

A Journey of Grit, Adaptability, and Purpose

The Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is a gateway to India’s most prestigious services, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and Indian Police Service (IPS). Cracking this exam is considered one of the toughest intellectual pursuits in India, demanding a rare combination of perseverance, discipline, analytical skills, and emotional balance.

Among the top scorers in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, one name that stands out is Aakash Garg, who secured All India Rank 5. His journey is inspiring not just because of the impressive rank but because of how he rose from failure in his first attempt to securing a top spot in his very next one. Aakash’s story is a living testament to the value of self-belief, adaptability, and smart strategy.

Early Life and Educational Background

Aakash Garg was born and raised in North West Delhi. He comes from a middle-class background with strong ethical foundations. His father is a government employee, and his mother is a homemaker. His family provided a stable and encouraging environment where education was given high priority. This environment laid the foundation for his later achievements.

He completed his schooling from CRPF Public School in Delhi in 2018. Right from his school days, Aakash displayed a keen interest in academics, consistently scoring well and demonstrating a logical aptitude. These early indicators of intellectual curiosity eventually guided him toward engineering and later, public service.

After school, Aakash pursued a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Computer Science from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University. He graduated in 2022 with a solid academic record and a clear vision of contributing to society in a larger way. During his college years, he was not just focused on technical education but also stayed updated with current affairs and national policy, which later proved invaluable for his UPSC preparation.

First Attempt: Lessons from Failure

Aakash’s first attempt at the UPSC CSE in 2023 ended at the preliminary stage. He was unable to qualify for the Mains examination. However, instead of viewing this as a failure, he considered it a critical learning opportunity. He analyzed the gaps in his strategy, preparation depth, and time management. He realized that success in UPSC does not necessarily come from just working hard, but from working smart, consistently, and with the right focus.

This introspection became the turning point in his preparation journey. He overhauled his strategy, refined his schedule, focused more on fundamentals, and created a roadmap that was more tailored to his strengths and weaknesses.

Second Attempt: Cracking UPSC with AIR 5

In 2024, Aakash appeared for the Civil Services Examination once again, this time with a structured and comprehensive preparation strategy. His second attempt proved to be transformational. He cleared all three stages—Prelims, Mains, and the Personality Test—with confidence and secured AIR 5.

He scored a total of 1032 marks, comprising 831 in the written examination (Mains) and 201 in the interview (Personality Test). His sharp rise from a failed Prelims attempt to being among the top five in the country illustrates the power of strategic revision, consistency, and confidence.

Choosing Sociology as Optional Subject

Despite having an engineering background, Aakash chose Sociology as his optional subject. His rationale was clear—Sociology offered a concise, well-structured syllabus that overlapped with the General Studies papers, especially in areas like ethics, governance, and society.

He also found that his interest in understanding social behavior, inequalities, and institutional frameworks aligned well with the subject matter. His analytical skills, honed during his engineering education, allowed him to grasp sociological theories quickly and apply them effectively in Mains answer writing.

His preparation for Sociology involved a blend of standard textbooks, class notes, online resources, and test series. He made a habit of writing answers regularly, analyzing topper copies, and improving on feedback.

Preparation Strategy and Daily Routine

Aakash’s preparation for UPSC was methodical and disciplined. He broke down his journey into three major phases—Prelims preparation, Mains answer writing, and Interview readiness.

Prelims Preparation

• Focus on Basics: Aakash emphasized building strong conceptual foundations. He relied heavily on NCERT books and standard textbooks such as Laxmikanth for Polity, GC Leong for Geography, Ramesh Singh for Economics, and Spectrum for Modern Indian History.
• Mock Tests: He enrolled in multiple Prelims test series and made it a point to simulate real exam conditions. He consistently analyzed his mistakes and tracked improvement over time.
• Current Affairs: Daily newspaper reading, especially from The Hindu and Indian Express, became a regular part of his routine. He made notes and revised them monthly.

Mains Preparation

• Answer Writing Practice: Aakash believed in writing at least one or two answers every day. He practiced structuring answers using the introduction-body-conclusion format and focused on clarity and relevance.
• Essay Writing: He worked on developing a balanced, multidimensional approach in essay writing. He practiced with past year topics and refined his style by reading top scorers’ essays.
• Revision: He revised his notes at least three times before the Mains exam, ensuring retention of key facts, quotes, and examples.

Interview Preparation

• Mock Interviews: Aakash attended mock sessions at Vajiram and Ravi, where he worked on improving his articulation, body language, and clarity of thought.
• Profile-Based Questions: He prepared thoroughly on his graduation subject, current national issues, and personal profile areas such as hobbies and academic background.
• Self-Evaluation: He recorded his own mock interviews to identify behavioral patterns and areas for improvement.

Integrating Technology in Preparation

Being a computer science engineer, Aakash had a natural inclination toward using technology smartly. He used various tools for time management, digital note-making, and even tested structured writing frameworks with the help of AI tools. However, he was cautious about verifying information and did not let technology replace his own understanding and analysis.

He also used productivity tools like digital calendars, timers, and revision trackers to maintain discipline and track goals.

Mental Health, Balance, and Family Support

A key part of Aakash’s journey was his ability to maintain emotional stability. The UPSC journey is long and can often become stressful. Aakash ensured that he did not fall into the trap of burnout by following a balanced schedule.

He made time for recreational activities such as watching movies, engaging in light reading, and spending quality time with his family. His parents played a crucial role in supporting him emotionally, especially during the low points after his first attempt.

He also practiced mindfulness and focused breathing techniques to manage anxiety, especially before critical stages like the Prelims and Personality Test.

Core Strengths and Personality Traits

Several personal traits helped Aakash distinguish himself from other candidates:

• Discipline: His daily study targets and consistent routines demonstrated high levels of self-control.
• Adaptability: He learned from past failures and restructured his preparation effectively.
• Emotional Intelligence: His responses in the interview demonstrated maturity, clarity of thought, and empathy.
• Clarity of Purpose: Even after failing in the first attempt, he never questioned his decision to pursue civil services. His vision kept him anchored.

Advice to Future Aspirants

In multiple interactions after the result, Aakash shared practical advice for UPSC aspirants:

• Accept Failure as Feedback: Learn from your mistakes. Every failure has hidden insights.
• Consistency Over Intensity: Study regularly. Marathons win this race, not sprints.
• Answer Writing is Crucial: Practice daily. Structure and clarity make a significant difference.
• Pick the Right Optional: Choose a subject that complements your GS papers and matches your interest.
• Stay Balanced: Do not ignore mental health. Make time for breaks, hobbies, and relationships.

Conclusion

Aakash Garg’s story is not just about securing a top rank. It is about resilience, introspection, smart strategy, and human balance. From being unable to qualify for Prelims in his first attempt to securing All India Rank 5 in the next, his transformation is a model of what is possible with the right mindset.

His journey serves as an inspiration for countless aspirants who may find themselves discouraged after initial setbacks. It shows that with clarity, consistency, and course correction, the UPSC CSE can be conquered. As Aakash steps into the corridors of governance, his blend of technical acumen, social sensitivity, and human values promises a bright future for Indian public administration.

The Perseverant Engineer Who Secured AIR 4 in UPSC CSE 2024

The journey to success in the UPSC Civil Services Examination is often marked by resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to one’s goals. Among the many inspiring stories from the 2024 UPSC CSE results, Shah Margi Chirag’s stands out not only for the prestigious All India Rank 4 she secured but also for the perseverance and clarity of purpose that defined her multi-year preparation journey. A computer engineer by qualification and a civil servant by aspiration, Shah Margi Chirag’s journey embodies the essence of determination and intellectual curiosity.

Early Life and Academic Background

Shah Margi Chirag hails from Ahmedabad, Gujarat. She completed her schooling at St. Xavier’s High School in Gandhinagar, where she consistently excelled in academics. She secured 92.7 percent in Class 10 and 90.3 percent in Class 12, setting a solid academic foundation early in life. Her consistent performance in school reflected her disciplined approach to studies and her focus on long-term goals.

Following her school education, Margi pursued a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Computer Engineering from L.D. College of Engineering, affiliated with Gujarat Technological University. She graduated in 2020 with an impressive CGPA of 9.21. Her academic journey in engineering instilled in her a logical and structured way of thinking—an asset that would serve her well in UPSC preparation, especially in areas requiring analytical and problem-solving skills.

Personal Background and Family Support

Margi grew up in a supportive environment that placed great emphasis on education. Her father was an engineer and her mother a school teacher. Tragically, her father passed away in 2017, an emotional loss that left a lasting impact on her. In the years that followed, her mother and younger brother became the main pillars of support. Margi often credits her family’s emotional and moral backing as instrumental in her ability to endure the challenges of civil services preparation.

The UPSC Journey: A Five-Year Pursuit of Excellence

Shah Margi Chirag’s success in UPSC CSE 2024 was the result of persistent efforts over five attempts. Her journey underscores the fact that UPSC is not merely an exam of knowledge but a test of character, resilience, and strategy.

In her earlier attempts, Margi reached significant milestones, including success in the Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC), where she secured Rank 55 and was appointed as a State Tax Officer. Despite this achievement, her eyes remained fixed on the larger goal of serving the country through the Indian Administrative Service or other elite central services.

Her preparation for UPSC was marked by consistent effort, self-assessment, and strategic changes in approach. With each attempt, she refined her methodology, strengthened her weak areas, and deepened her understanding of the syllabus. In her fifth attempt in 2024, she achieved her long-cherished goal by securing All India Rank 4.

Academic Strategy and Optional Subject

Margi chose Sociology as her optional subject. This choice reflected both strategic foresight and genuine interest. Coming from a technical background, her decision to opt for a social science subject may seem unconventional. However, it was rooted in her broader interest in understanding society, governance, and human behavior—areas she considered essential for a future civil servant.

Sociology allowed her to engage with real-world issues through the lens of theory and provided her with tools to write answers that were analytical yet grounded in current social realities. Her deep engagement with thinkers, theories, and contemporary social issues enriched her responses in the Mains examination.

Preparation Resources and Coaching

Margi’s preparation was a blend of self-study and guided mentorship. She began her journey with a focus on NCERT books to build a strong conceptual base. Over time, she incorporated advanced reference materials and standard texts specific to General Studies and her optional subject.

Mock tests played a vital role in her preparation. She enrolled in test series by reputed coaching institutes and used them to assess her readiness and identify areas for improvement. Regular answer writing practice helped her improve articulation and content structuring, both of which are crucial in scoring high in the Mains examination.

For her Personality Test, she attended Vajiram and Ravi’s interview guidance program and also participated in mock interviews at ForumIAS. These experiences helped her build confidence, refine her communication skills, and address her weaknesses.

Maintaining Balance and Mental Well-being

A unique aspect of Margi’s preparation was her ability to maintain a balanced lifestyle. While preparing rigorously for one of the most demanding examinations in the country, she also made time for personal growth and mental rejuvenation. Her hobbies include reading Western literature, learning new languages like Spanish, and listening to music. These activities not only offered a break from academic rigors but also enriched her personality—a critical asset in the UPSC interview stage.

Margi emphasizes that a healthy mind and body are essential for sustained preparation. She practiced mindfulness and kept a positive outlook even during periods of low motivation or setbacks.

Personality Traits and Core Strengths

Several personal attributes contributed to Margi’s exceptional performance in the UPSC examination:

• Resilience: Clearing the exam in the fifth attempt reflects her unyielding spirit and ability to learn from failures.
• Adaptability: She regularly evaluated her performance and adapted her strategy with each attempt.
• Discipline: Her consistent academic record and focused preparation routine are indicative of her self-discipline.
• Empathy and Social Sensitivity: Her choice of Sociology and her answers in the Mains and Interview demonstrated a keen awareness of societal issues and empathy toward underrepresented communities.

Key Takeaways for Aspirants

Shah Margi Chirag’s success story offers several lessons for future aspirants:

1. Success May Require Multiple Attempts: Persistence and continuous improvement are essential. Margi’s five-year journey illustrates how setbacks can be stepping stones.
2. Optional Subject Should Match Interest and Aptitude: Choosing Sociology allowed Margi to combine her curiosity about society with a strategic subject choice.
3. Self-study is Powerful When Structured Well: Coaching can be a helpful guide, but the bulk of the effort must come from well-organized self-study.
4. Answer Writing is Crucial: Regular practice in structured answer writing is key to excelling in the Mains examination.
5. Interview Preparation Should Be Holistic: Mock interviews and personality development exercises can greatly improve performance in the Personality Test.
6. Mental Health Should Not Be Ignored: A balanced routine, hobbies, and emotional support from family can help manage the stress associated with UPSC preparation.

Contribution to a Larger Narrative

Margi’s story is also part of a larger trend in 2024, which saw significant representation of women in the top ranks of the UPSC examination. Three out of the top five ranks were secured by women, signaling a progressive shift in the gender dynamics of India’s top administrative services. Margi’s journey, therefore, is not just about personal triumph but also about inspiring thousands of young women to aim for leadership roles in governance and policy-making.

Conclusion

Shah Margi Chirag’s journey from a computer engineering graduate to securing the fourth rank in India’s toughest competitive examination is an inspiring account of grit, determination, and academic excellence. Her success reflects the importance of strategic planning, continuous learning, and emotional resilience.

For aspirants across the country, her story is a reminder that civil services are not just about intellect but about the resolve to contribute meaningfully to society. It is about overcoming obstacles, staying focused, and believing in the transformative power of public service.

As she steps into the world of governance, policy, and nation-building, Shah Margi Chirag is poised to bring the same clarity of thought and dedication that defined her UPSC journey into her role as a future civil servant.