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.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination is one of the most prestigious and competitive examinations in India. Each year, lakhs of aspirants appear with a dream to secure a place in the top ranks. In the UPSC CSE 2024 results, Dongre Archit Parag stood out as a remarkable success story by securing All India Rank 3, placing himself among the top three achievers in the country. Hailing from Maharashtra, Archit’s journey is an inspiring testament to dedication, discipline, and the power of consistent effort.

Early Life and Educational Background

Dongre Archit Parag was born and raised in Maharashtra. He completed his schooling in Mumbai and later pursued his junior college studies in Pune. From an early age, Archit was known for his academic excellence and clarity of thought. His inclination toward analytical reasoning and logical problem-solving led him to pursue engineering.

He completed his Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Tamil Nadu. The rigorous curriculum and technical exposure provided him with a structured approach to problem-solving and nurtured the discipline that would later serve him well in his UPSC preparation.

After graduating, Archit worked at Hexaware Technologies, an IT services firm. While his role in the technology sector offered him stability and learning opportunities, Archit felt a deeper calling to contribute directly to society. This desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives ultimately pushed him toward the civil services.

The UPSC Journey: From AIR 153 to AIR 3

Archit’s UPSC journey was not a one-attempt miracle. He first appeared for the Civil Services Examination in 2023 and secured All India Rank 153. This achievement earned him a place in the Indian Police Service (IPS). While this was a significant accomplishment, Archit remained focused on his ultimate goal — securing a higher rank and gaining entry into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) or Indian Foreign Service (IFS).

His experience in the first attempt gave him a strong understanding of the exam’s demands. He used the insights from this attempt to fine-tune his preparation strategy. In 2024, with a refined approach and greater confidence, he appeared again and secured AIR 3, making a giant leap of 150 ranks within a year.

Choosing Philosophy as Optional Subject

One of the most defining aspects of Archit’s preparation was his choice of the optional subject. He chose Philosophy, a subject not commonly selected by engineering graduates. The decision, however, was deeply thought out. Philosophy, with its emphasis on abstract reasoning, logic, and ethical discourse, aligned well with Archit’s analytical temperament.

He approached the subject not merely from a marks-oriented perspective but also with genuine interest. This enthusiasm translated into deep conceptual clarity and strong answers in the Mains examination. His ability to interlink philosophical theories with real-world governance scenarios gave him an edge in writing nuanced answers.

Preparation Strategy and Study Resources

Archit’s preparation strategy was marked by consistency, smart planning, and adaptability. He did not believe in slogging through endless hours of study but emphasized effective study techniques. Some of the core pillars of his preparation included:

• Clear Timetables and Milestones: Archit followed a weekly schedule with realistic targets. He broke down the vast UPSC syllabus into manageable units and ensured regular revisions.
• Strong Focus on NCERTs and Standard Books: For core subjects such as Polity, Economy, History, and Geography, Archit relied on NCERTs and standard sources like Laxmikanth, Spectrum, Ramesh Singh, and GC Leong.
• Mock Tests and Answer Writing: One of the major differentiators in Archit’s preparation was his commitment to regular mock tests. He joined test series programs by reputed coaching institutes and consistently evaluated his performance. Daily answer writing practice helped improve his articulation, presentation, and time management.
• Mains and Interview Preparation: For Mains, he emphasized structuring answers with clear introductions, body, and conclusions. For the Interview round, he joined Vajiram & Ravi’s personality test guidance program and participated in mock interviews. His previous year’s IPS selection also gave him experience that added depth to his responses.
• Coaching Support: Archit enrolled in the Foundation Course of Vision IAS and supplemented his preparation with selective coaching material. He avoided information overload by sticking to limited and trusted resources.

Transition from IT Job to Full-Time Preparation

One of the most courageous decisions in Archit’s journey was quitting his stable job in May 2022 to prepare full-time for the Civil Services Examination. Many aspirants hesitate to leave their careers mid-way, but Archit evaluated his goals and acted decisively. This bold move allowed him to devote uninterrupted attention to preparation. He credits this decision as pivotal in transforming his rank from three digits to single digit.

Personality Traits and Support System

Archit’s journey reflects certain core personal attributes that played a vital role in his success:

• Discipline: Whether it was sticking to a study routine or maintaining focus during setbacks, Archit demonstrated unwavering discipline.
• Adaptability: He evolved his strategy based on feedback and experiences from his first attempt. This adaptability proved essential.
• Analytical Thinking: His engineering background enhanced his logical reasoning skills, which were useful both in Prelims (CSAT) and in writing structured Mains answers.
• Emotional Balance: Civil services preparation can be mentally taxing. Archit maintained balance through physical fitness, family support, and occasional leisure activities. He is known to be a fitness enthusiast and believes that mental health is closely linked to physical well-being.

Archit also acknowledged the constant support of his parents and mentors. Their encouragement and belief in his potential helped him stay motivated during difficult phases.

Insights for Aspirants

Dongre Archit Parag’s journey offers several valuable lessons for UPSC aspirants:

1. Previous Attempts Are Stepping Stones: Not clearing the exam in the first attempt or not getting the desired rank does not mean failure. Use each attempt as a learning experience.
2. Optional Subject Should Match Your Temperament: Do not follow trends. Choose a subject that aligns with your interest and aptitude. Archit’s success with Philosophy is a case in point.
3. Mock Tests Are Indispensable: Answer writing practice and Prelims mock tests help aspirants simulate real exam conditions, identify weaknesses, and improve incrementally.
4. Balanced Life Aids Better Performance: Burnout is real in UPSC preparation. Aspirants should balance study with hobbies, fitness, and social support.
5. Coaching Should Be a Supplement, Not a Crutch: Coaching can provide structure, but self-study and discipline are irreplaceable.

Post-Result Preference and Future Outlook

With an All India Rank of 3, Archit is eligible for the most coveted services. Reports suggest that he is inclined toward the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), given his interest in international affairs, diplomacy, and global governance. If he does opt for IFS, Archit’s profile will be well-suited to represent India’s interests on a global platform.

Regardless of the service he joins, his commitment to public service and passion for impact-driven work will surely leave a mark on the Indian administrative landscape.

Conclusion

Dongre Archit Parag’s story is a shining example of how thoughtful planning, consistent effort, and self-belief can lead to extraordinary success. He proves that one does not need to be from a specific background or follow a fixed path to crack UPSC. What is essential is clarity of purpose, strategic preparation, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

His journey will inspire countless aspirants who may be doubting themselves after one or more attempts. Archit’s rise from AIR 153 to AIR 3 within a year illustrates the power of perseverance and self-improvement.

As the new batch of UPSC aspirants embarks on their journey, the story of Dongre Archit Parag will continue to serve as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset and approach, the dream of becoming a civil servant is well within reach.