From Rural Roots to UPSC Triumph: Ankit Nain's Inspiring Success Story

February 26, 2024

3 Minutes

Ankit Nain, a young man from the tiny village of Kharenti in Haryana’s Jind district, achieved something incredible. He cleared the UPSC Civil Services Exam in 2022, securing an All India Rank 99. This was not just any success; it was a testament to his determination, securing his place among the top ranks on his fourth attempt.

Early Life and Inspiration

Ankit’s story is not just about success; it is about overcoming obstacles. Born to parents who worked hard on agricultural lands and never had any formal education, Ankit’s journey was filled with challenges from the very beginning. Despite this, his family’s support was unwavering. They believed in him, even when the path seemed uncertain.

His education began in a local village school, where lessons were taught in Hindi. Later, moving to Hissar for further education, he encountered a turning point. An uncle, preparing for the civil services himself, inspired him. Although initially dreaming of IIT, his focus shifted towards UPSC after not making it into engineering. After completing his undergraduate degree in B.Sc Physical Science from Delhi University, he was ready to face the UPSC challenge.

The Ups and Downs

Ankit’s journey to success was not smooth. His first attempt in 2018 showed promise as he cleared the prelims but fell short in the mains by 40 marks. In 2019, he was closer, missing the mark by only 20. The 2020 attempt was a setback, failing at the CSAT stage. Each of these attempts was in Hindi, his comfort zone. However, recognizing the need for change, he switched to English, facing his fear head-on. Despite these setbacks, he found success in other areas, clearing both the Haryana State PCS and UP State PCS exams. This experience, especially after the initial UPSC setbacks, was crucial. It wasn't just about passing exams; it was about building confidence and resilience.

Also read: The Art of the UPSC Interview: Success Mantra by IRS Ankit Ravindra Jain

Learning and Growing

After his 2020 attempt, Ankit found himself at a low point, feeling demotivated and depressed. But it was here, in the depths of despair, that he found the strength to rise again. His family’s support was a beacon of hope. They encouraged him not to give up, and to see beyond the failures. He realized his approach needed to change. Instead of relying solely on his understanding of questions, he began to truly comprehend what was being asked. This shift in strategy improved his answer writing significantly. It was a game changer, reflecting in his marks and ultimately in his success.

The Moment of Triumph

When the results were announced, Ankit’s joy knew no bounds. It was a moment of validation for all the hard work, the struggles, and the perseverance. For him, it was more than just personal success; it was a victory for his family, his village, and everyone who believed in him.

Words of Wisdom

Ankit’s advice to other aspirants is simple yet profound. “Be patient and calm. Push yourself, but never fear failure. Fear not trying again.” He emphasizes the importance of self-motivation and persistence. According to him, preparing for UPSC is a marathon, not a sprint.

Conclusion

Ankit Nain’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about talent or opportunity; it is about perseverance, learning from failures, and the courage to keep trying. From a small village to the prestigious ranks of UPSC achievers, Ankit’s journey inspires us all to chase our dreams, no matter the obstacles. 

Also read: From Bihar to Bureaucracy: Aman Shrivastava’s IES Story