The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is known for its immense difficulty and rigorous selection process, often referred to as one of India’s most prestigious and challenging exams. Each year, aspirants from all walks of life aim to clear this exam to serve the nation. Among this year’s successful candidates is Ayushi Pradhan from Baripada, Odisha, who has emerged as an inspiring role model for young women across India. By the age of 26, Ayushi cracked the UPSC exam three times and achieved an impressive All-India Rank (AIR) of 36 in her latest attempt, securing her dream position in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
A top performer from a young age, Ayushi displayed an impressive academic record that hinted at her future achievements. She scored 93.5% in her Class 10 exams from St Anne’s Convent School and achieved 93% in Class 12 from Mother’s Public School in Bhubaneswar. After excelling in school, she pursued a degree in computer engineering from the College of Engineering and Technology (CET). Initially, Ayushi set her sights on an MBA, but her aspirations shifted, and she resolved to take on the UPSC CSE. Her story demonstrates her ability to change course, embrace challenges, and focus on her ultimate goal.
Ayushi’s path to IAS was not easy. Her first attempt at the UPSC CSE saw her progress to the interview stage, but she fell short of the final selection by just 13 marks. Despite this setback, Ayushi was undeterred. With resilience and focus, she attempted the exam a second time and achieved an AIR of 334, securing a position in the Indian Defence Estate Service (IDES). Although she had earned a respectable rank and started her training, Ayushi continued to aim higher, knowing that IAS was her ultimate goal.
During her journey, Ayushi relied heavily on self-study and maintained a disciplined approach to her preparation. She watched instructional videos on various subjects, created comprehensive notes, and studied past UPSC papers to better understand the exam’s format and focus areas. Despite her technical background in engineering, Ayushi boldly chose Anthropology as her optional subject – a field she had no prior experience in. Mastering a new subject was challenging, but she remained dedicated to her study plan.
Her self-study routine included solving previous years’ question papers, which helped her grasp the type of questions typically asked in the exams and the depth of understanding required. Ayushi’s ability to independently prepare for the UPSC exam without the aid of a coaching institute underscores her determination and resourcefulness.
In 2023, while still undergoing training with IDES, Ayushi took the UPSC exam for the third time. Her unwavering determination paid off when she secured an impressive AIR of 36, officially earning her place in the IAS cadre. Her story is a testament to her resilience, self-belief, and commitment to public service.
Ayushi is currently an IDES officer trainee, but she is set to begin her IAS training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. Over the next two years, she will undergo comprehensive training to prepare for her role in the Indian Administrative Service. LBSNAA is known for its intensive training programs, where future IAS officers are equipped with the skills needed to handle the diverse challenges they will face in public service.
Ayushi Pradhan’s journey inspires young aspirants across India, especially those who aspire to clear the UPSC exams through self-study. Her achievements reflect the power of resilience, hard work, and the courage to pursue one’s dreams despite obstacles. As one of India’s youngest female IAS officers, she has set a remarkable example, particularly for young women looking to create a meaningful impact in the field of public service.
Ayushi’s story resonates deeply with countless students across the country, proving that even the most formidable goals can be achieved with dedication, strategic planning, and hard work.
