Saltanat Praveen: A Tale of Resilience and Triumph in UPPCS 2022 Exam, From Adversity to Deputy Collector

June 5, 2024

4 Minutes

Early Years and Inspiration

Saltanat Praveen’s extraordinary journey to the zenith of success as a Deputy Collector in the UPPCS 2022 exam is a captivating tale of resilience, unwavering determination, and the transformative power of familial support. This remarkable odyssey commenced in her tender years, when her father, driven by the urgent need to sustain his family, embarked on a journey to Saudi Arabia in pursuit of employment.

Despite her own unfulfilled educational aspirations, Praveen’s mother possessed an unshakeable conviction in the transformative potential of education. She was adamant that her children would seize the opportunities that had eluded her. Unmoved by societal norms and the arduous task of raising three young hearts alone, Praveen’s mother departed from the familial home and relocated to the bustling metropolis of Lucknow. Her unwavering resolve paved the path for Praveen and her siblings to pursue their dreams.

The Path to Civil Services

As Praveen transitioned into adolescence, she found herself at a crossroads. After completing the ninth grade, uncertainty clouded her next steps. During this pivotal time, she encountered friends who introduced her to the path of Civil Services. Guided by their insights, Praveen enrolled in the PCS program.

However, the absence of mentors or familial connections to provide guidance left Praveen trepidation embarking on her educational journey. In 2012, she joined Nerist College as a B.Tech student. It was during her final year that she became acquainted with Civil Services as a career path.

Torn between the allure of lucrative corporate placements and the uncertain yet potentially rewarding path of Civil Services, Praveen ultimately opted for the latter. As a woman, she enjoyed the advantage of fewer familial responsibilities compared to her male counterparts, enabling her to immerse herself fully in her studies.

A Family Tragedy: Resilience Amidst Adversity

Praveen’s meticulous preparation for Civil Services proceeded smoothly until tragedy struck her family. In September 2020, her younger brother succumbed to an illness. The loss shattered the family, and Praveen felt obligated to prioritize their well-being over her own.

Her studies came to an abrupt halt as she grappled with grief and extended support to her family. Her mother’s physical and emotional health deteriorated, and Praveen felt a profound sense of responsibility to provide solace and stability.

Renewal and Reinvention

With the passage of time, as the family began to heal, a profound realization dawned upon Praveen. She had to honor her brother’s memory by continuing her pursuit of excellence. Determined to overcome adversity, she gradually resumed her studies.

Praveen found solace in the unwavering support of her family, particularly her mother. Her mother’s abiding belief in Praveen’s abilities and her declaration that Praveen was already an officer in her eyes instilled in her the strength to persevere.

Challenges and Triumphs

Praveen’s journey towards the Civil Services exam was not without its impediments. Despite her dedicated efforts, she fell short of clearing the UPSC prelims on two occasions. Undeterred, she remained steadfast in her pursuit and continued her preparations for the UPPCS exam.

In 2022, Praveen appeared for the UPPCS exam for the fourth time. The lead-up to the exam was marked by another challenge: her father required urgent surgery due to a kidney infection. Once again, Praveen balanced her familial responsibilities with her unwavering determination.

The exam itself unfolded favorably, and Praveen emerged with a glimmer of hope that she had finally achieved a breakthrough. She successfully cleared the prelims and went on to excel in the mains exam. As the interview date approached, she intensified her preparations, driven by the conviction that she had persevered too far to abandon her dreams.

The Moment of Truth: A Dream Fulfilled

On April 7, 2023, the long-awaited results were released. With trepidation, Praveen accessed the notification, her heart pounding with anticipation. There it was: her name, Saltanat Praveen, prominently displayed as sixth on the final ranking list for Deputy Collector.

Overwhelmed by an indescribable mix of emotions, Praveen rushed to share the momentous news with her family. Tears of joy and disbelief sparkled in their eyes. It was a moment she had yearned for, a dream come true.

The Transformative Power of Success

Praveen’s journey to becoming a Deputy Collector not only brought her immense personal fulfillment but also profoundly impacted her family. After enduring years of financial and emotional hardships, their lives were transformed. Praveen’s mother’s health improved significantly, and a renewed sense of hope and happiness permeated their home.

Praveen’s story stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within us all. It is a reminder that even amidst adversity’s darkest shadows, we can discover strength and purpose. By embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and pursuing our aspirations with unwavering determination, we can achieve the unimaginable.

Inspiration from Others

Throughout her journey, Praveen drew inspiration from the success stories of others. One video that particularly resonated with her was that of an IPS officer who had overcome insurmountable obstacles on his path to success. His resilience and unwavering belief in his dreams motivated Praveen to persevere even when the odds appeared insurmountable.

A Message of Hope

Praveen’s journey serves as a poignant reminder that success is rarely attained effortlessly. Obstacles and setbacks will inevitably arise along the way. However, by harnessing the power of perseverance, seeking unwavering support from loved ones, and maintaining an unwavering belief in our own abilities, we can overcome any hurdle and achieve our dreams.

For those grappling with setbacks or self-doubt, Praveen urges you to remember that success is not a distant destination but an ongoing journey. It is a testament to our resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in our own abilities. Embrace the challenges that come your way, and never relinquish your dreams.