Journey of a Civil Servant: Sakshi Garg’s Path to IRS Commissioner

May 9, 2024

3 Minutes

Introduction

Sakshi Garg, a young woman from the Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh, has etched her name in the annals of Indian civil service history as an IRS Commissioner. Her journey to the pinnacle of this esteemed profession is a testament to her unwavering determination, resilience, and unwavering belief in her abilities.

Inspiration for UPSC

From a young age, Sakshi was exposed to the transformative impact of civil servants on society. Inspired by their dedication and commitment to public service, she harbored a desire to contribute to nation-building through the Indian Civil Service (ICS).

Challenges in Preparation

Embarking on her UPSC preparation, Sakshi encountered a significant hurdle: the lack of resources and guidance in her hometown. Undeterred, she made the bold decision to relocate to Delhi in search of the necessary mentorship and materials.

Finding a Mentor

Upon arriving in Delhi, Sakshi was fortunate to cross paths with Kamal Dev Sir, an experienced coaching center director. His unwavering support and sage advice became an indispensable asset in her preparation, boosting her confidence and guiding her every step of the way.

First Attempt

Despite her meticulous preparation, Sakshi faced a setback in her first UPSC attempt, failing to clear the preliminary stage. Disappointment washed over her, but instead of succumbing to despair, she resolved to learn from her mistakes.

Second Attempt

With renewed determination, Sakshi embarked on a second attempt. This time, she meticulously analyzed her weaknesses and focused on improving her knowledge and answer-writing skills. She remained undeterred by the skepticism of those who questioned her choice of studying in Hindi medium.

Overcoming the Hindi Medium Barrier

Throughout her journey, Sakshi faced skepticism from those who believed that English medium was essential for UPSC success. However, she refused to be swayed. She believed in her own abilities and persevered in her chosen path.

Importance of Self-Belief

Sakshi’s journey underscores the crucial importance of self-belief. She understood that success was not about perfection but about making the most of her abilities and overcoming challenges with unwavering determination.

Tips for UPSC Aspirants

Based on her firsthand experience, Sakshi offers valuable advice to aspiring civil servants:

• Focus on Strengths: Identify your areas of strength and leverage them in your preparation. Avoid being influenced by others and tailor your studies accordingly.
• Manage Expectations: Maintain realistic expectations to stay motivated. Do not be disheartened by initial setbacks. Instead, learn from your mistakes and strive for continuous improvement.
• Ignore External Pressure: Tune out naysayers and focus on your personal goals. Do not allow the opinions of others to deter you from pursuing your aspirations.
• Effective Study Techniques: Experiment with different study methods to find what works best for you. Whether it’s highlighting notes or creating comprehensive charts, find techniques that enhance your retention.
• Mock Tests: Utilize mock tests to build confidence and identify areas for improvement. Don’t be discouraged by failures; instead, treat each test as a learning opportunity.
• Interview Preparation: For the UPSC personality test, authenticity is key. Showcase your strengths, skills, and experiences without trying to conform to any preconceived notions.

Result Day

On April 28, 2018, Sakshi’s unwavering efforts bore fruit. Her name was proudly etched in the UPSC merit list, filling her with elation and a profound sense of accomplishment. It was a moment of triumph not only for her but also for her family and mentors who had believed in her every step of the way.

Message to UPSC Aspirants

Sakshi’s journey serves as an inspiration to UPSC aspirants everywhere. She emphasizes that preparation is a transformative experience that shapes one’s life in countless ways. With unwavering determination and a deep-seated belief in one’s abilities, success is not merely a dream but a tangible reality.