From Hindi Medium to IPS: The Incredible UPSC Journey of Vikas Gupta

April 22, 2024

4 Minutes

Table of Contents

Vikas Gupta's story is an anthem for anyone who has ever dared to dream big. It's a testament to the unwavering human spirit and the power of perseverance in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. This blog post delves deeper into Vikas's journey, highlighting the triumphs, the struggles, and the lessons learned along the way.

Humble Beginnings and a Hunger for Knowledge

Hailing from a small village in Bijraogarh, Madhya Pradesh, Vikas's life was steeped in simplicity. His family grappled with financial limitations. Education, however, was always valued. Despite attending a Hindi medium school, Vikas displayed a natural aptitude for learning. He excelled in his studies, proving that the language of instruction doesn't define one's potential. However, societal stigma often reared its ugly head. People questioned his academic choices, suggesting that a Hindi medium education wouldn't open many doors. But Vikas remained undeterred. His thirst for knowledge burned bright, and he continued to excel.

Engineering Dreams and Financial Realities

With his sights set on a future in engineering, Vikas secured admission to a government engineering college. This was a moment of immense pride for him and his family. However, the joy was short-lived. The reality of financing his education hit hard. His father, with a heavy heart, explained the limitations of taking on another loan. This setback could have easily demotivated Vikas, but he refused to let his dreams be extinguished. He started exploring other avenues and discovered the alluring world of civil services.

Embracing the UPSC Challenge: Self-Study and Resourcefulness

The UPSC exam, notoriously competitive and demanding, presented a new challenge. Undeterred by the lack of formal coaching, Vikas embarked on his preparation journey with the tools readily available – YouTube videos. He spent countless hours learning from online resources, demonstrating his dedication and resourcefulness. Soon, however, he realized the limitations of self-study. The vast UPSC syllabus and the intricacies of exam strategy required a more structured approach.

Facing the Big City: Delhi Dreams and Daily Dilemmas

With the decision to join a coaching institute in Delhi made, Vikas found himself in a bustling metropolis, far removed from the familiar comfort of his village. The financial challenges he faced in his hometown only intensified in the big city. Every rupee mattered. Meals were often skipped, and living arrangements were modest. There were days when Vikas thought of giving up, questioning whether the financial strain was worth the uncertain outcome of the UPSC exam.

IPS Vikas Gupta on Josh Talks

Also read: From Hardships to Heights: The UPSC Story of IPS Ilma Afroz

Clearing Prelims: A Confidence Booster and a Reality Check

In his first attempt, Vikas defied the odds by clearing the UPSC prelims exam. This success was a shot of adrenaline, a validation of his hard work and sacrifices. However, the joy was short-lived. The Mains exam proved to be an obstacle. Despite relentless effort, Vikas faced consecutive failures. These setbacks took a toll on his confidence. Self-doubt began to creep in, whispering discouraging thoughts. He even considered transitioning to state-level civil service exams like MPPSC, where the language barrier wouldn't be a hurdle.

A Turning Point and Renewed Determination

During this period of introspection, a glimmer of hope emerged. Vikas narrowly missed the interview stage in MPPSC. This experience, though initially disheartening, served as a turning point. It reignited his passion for UPSC and the burning desire to fulfill his dream. This time, he approached his preparation with a renewed perspective. He focused on improving his answer writing skills and strategy through mock tests and discussions with fellow aspirants.

The Power of Support: Family, Friends, and the Community

Throughout Vikas's journey, his family and friends remained his unwavering support system. They believed in him even when he doubted himself. His friends readily helped him navigate the challenges of living in Delhi, offering emotional and financial support whenever possible. This sense of community proved to be a crucial source of strength, reminding Vikas that he wasn't alone in his pursuit.

Fourth Attempt, Undisputed Victory, and a Fulfilling Dream

With his focus sharpened and his spirit bolstered by unwavering support, Vikas faced his fourth UPSC attempt with unwavering determination. This time, success finally embraced him. He cleared the Mains exam and secured a coveted place in the interview round. The interview, a testament to his hard work and knowledge gained, became a stepping stone to achieving his ultimate goal. Vikas secured a top rank in the UPSC exam, fulfilling his dream of becoming an IPS officer.

Lessons Learned and a Message of Hope

Vikas's story resonates with all UPSC aspirants, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance, hard work, and the unwavering belief in oneself. It's a reminder that financial constraints

Also read: From Wings to Stars: Decoding UPSC Success with IPS Tejaswi Satpute