What does it take to crack one of the toughest exams in India? Determination, resilience, and an unbreakable spirit! IAS officer Radhika Gupta embodies all these qualities. Overcoming numerous obstacles, she emerged victorious in the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2020, securing the 18th rank. Her story is an inspiration for thousands of aspirants dreaming of serving the nation.
But how did she do it? What challenges did she face, and what was her study strategy? Let’s dive deep into the remarkable journey of Radhika Gupta.
Radhika Gupta: A Beacon of Hope from India’s Least Literate District
Hailing from Alirajpur district, Madhya Pradesh, which holds the lowest literacy rate in India, Radhika Gupta defied societal norms to achieve her dreams. Unlike many in her village who struggle to access quality education, she recognized the power of learning and decided to pursue it wholeheartedly.
“The district I come from played a crucial role in shaping my personality. It became my biggest source of inspiration,” Radhika said.
Her story stands as proof that geographical and economic limitations cannot hinder a determined mind.
The ‘Mantra of Success’: How Radhika Gupta Cracked UPSC?
During the ‘Mantra of Success’ program organized by the Madhya Pradesh government, Radhika Gupta shared her journey with aspiring candidates. She revealed that in her first attempt, she was allocated to the Indian Railways due to a lower rank. However, she remained focused on her ultimate goal – becoming an IAS officer.
Determined to reach her dreams, she continued studying while working. Her perseverance paid off when she finally cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2020, securing the prestigious 18th rank.
Radhika Gupta’s Study Strategy: How Did She Prepare for UPSC?
One of the most common questions UPSC aspirants ask is: How many hours should I study daily?
A Strict Study Routine
- 9-10 hours of daily study
- A well-structured timetable
- Minimal distractions, especially from social media
- Regular revision and mock tests
“I made a strict study plan, avoided social media distractions, and played table tennis in my free time to refresh my mind,” said Radhika.
Self-Study vs. Coaching
Having attended JEE coaching in Kota, she was familiar with structured study environments. However, for UPSC, she chose self-study over coaching institutes.
“I stayed away from the coaching culture of Rajendra Nagar and focused on a self-disciplined study plan,” she shared.
Choosing the Right Optional Subject
For the UPSC Mains, she selected Anthropology as her optional subject. Her engineering background in Mechanical Engineering from SGSITS Indore did not deter her from choosing a humanities-based subject.
Key Takeaways from Radhika Gupta’s UPSC Preparation
| Strategy | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Hours | 9-10 hours per day |
| Optional Subject | Anthropology |
| Coaching | Preferred self-study |
| Distractions | Avoided social media |
| Recreational Activity | Played Table Tennis |
Lessons Aspirants Can Learn from Radhika Gupta
1. Consistency is Key
Clearing UPSC is not about intelligence alone; it’s about consistency. Regular study, revisions, and self-discipline are crucial.
2. Perseverance Pays Off
Despite failing to secure IAS in her first attempt, Radhika didn’t give up. Her persistence ultimately led her to success.
3. Avoid Distractions
With social media being a major distraction today, she stayed away from it to focus completely on her preparation.
4. Plan Your Strategy Well
Choosing the right optional subject, having a structured study plan, and engaging in healthy recreational activities helped her maintain balance.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Radhika Gupta
The story of Radhika Gupta is not just about clearing UPSC; it’s about breaking barriers, challenging norms, and inspiring countless aspirants. Coming from India’s least literate district, she has proved that determination and hard work can overcome any obstacle.
Her journey teaches us that dreams are achievable if one is willing to work for them. Are you ready to follow her footsteps and turn your UPSC dream into reality?
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