From Blueprints to Bureaucracy: The UPSC Journey of Avdhesh

March 14, 2024

3 Minutes

Avdhesh, a young man from Sona, Uttar Pradesh, embarked on a remarkable journey that led him from the world of architecture to the prestigious ranks of Indian civil services. His story is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and the support of loved ones.

Early Years and Education

Avdhesh’s academic journey began in a local school in Sona. He later pursued a degree in architecture at the University of Architecture and Planning, Indraprastha University. During his five-year course, he focused more on practical knowledge, which led him to drift away from his habit of book reading.

A Shift in Perspective

After completing his graduation, Avdhesh decided pursuing a master’s degree abroad. However, a conversation with his father’s friend, a Commissioner in Gurugram, changed his perspective. The Commissioner advised him to consider a career where he could contribute to society. This advice, coupled with a childhood memory of his grandfather’s words about the importance of education to become a police officer, sparked Avdhesh’s interest in civil services. No one in his house even knew what UPSC exam was, including himself until he watched a Hindi film Ranjhana where the actor says, “Yeh tumhara pyaar na hua, UPSC ka pariksha ho gaya jo 10 saal se nikal hi nehin raha” 

The UPSC Journey Begins

Avdhesh’s journey to crack the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam was not an easy one. He started with self-study, using NCERT books to build his foundation. Geography was his chosen optional subject. Despite his efforts, he could not clear the exam in his first two attempts.

In 2018, Avdhesh moved to New Delhi for a better learning environment. He made a promise to his supportive family that he would not return home until he cleared the UPSC exam. In 2019, he gave his first sincere attempt and cleared the prelims but missed the mains by just seven marks. This setback, however, only fueled his determination.

Overcoming Setbacks

The journey was filled with ups and downs. In 2020, Avdhesh worked tirelessly but failed to clear the prelims, which shattered his confidence. However, he picked himself up and continued his preparation with renewed vigor. In 2021, his hard work paid off, and he cleared the UPSC exam, securing a position in the Indian Information Services with a rank of 663. Not resting on his laurels, Avdhesh reappeared in the 2022 exam and was selected for the Dadra and Nagar Haveli Civil Services (DANICS).

Family Support and Dedication

Avdhesh’s journey was not a solitary one. His family’s unwavering support played a crucial role in his success. They were so dedicated to his dream that they did not inform him about a family member’s death until he returned home after his exam. His sister’s marriage to a civil services officer also brought a guiding figure into his life, his brother-in-law, who provided valuable guidance throughout his preparation.

Advice to Aspirants

Reflecting on his journey, Avdhesh advises UPSC aspirants not to treat the exam as a life-or-death situation. He believes that two years is a sufficient time to prepare for the exam. More importantly, he emphasizes that the journey of preparing for the UPSC exam is transformative, and one emerges as a better person irrespective of the result.

A Journey of Growth and Success

Avdhesh’s story is inspiring. It shows that with determination, hard work, and the support of loved ones, one can achieve their dreams. His journey from an architecture student to a civil servant is a testament to the fact that it's never too late to change your path and make a difference in society.

Must read: Avinash Singh's UPSC Chronicles: A Narrative of Persistence and Passion