What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
In an exclusive interview with The New Indian, Anirudh Yadav, the 8th rank holder in the UPSC 2023 examination, shares his study approach, priorities, and proposed administrative reforms. The Delhi-based IITian reveals the sacrifices he made, including giving up his passion for squash, time with friends and family, and even limiting his use of social media like Instagram, to excel in his preparations.
JOYMALA BAGCHI: Congratulations! How are you feeling right now?
ANIRUDH YADAV: Thank you. The feeling is still sinking in. I’ve been busy with numerous calls. Looking forward to spending quality time with my family and finding peace.
JOYMALA BAGCHI: How did your family react to your achievement? What was their initial response?
ANIRUDH YADAV: Initially, there was disbelief. It was hard for them to fathom that this had actually happened. I had been working towards this goal for 4-5 years, so we were all eagerly anticipating this day. Now that it’s here, we are filled with joy and gratitude.
JOYMALA BAGCHI: Ranking 8th is impressive. Can you share your journey and the main focus you maintained during your preparation?
ANIRUDH YADAV:It was indeed a challenging journey. I treated it like a full-time job, dedicating around 8 to 10 hours every day. The key was consistency. Setting daily goals, staying committed to my efforts and objectives. That consistency was the biggest challenge and doing it repeatedly on a daily basis proved to be the most significant aspect.
JOYMALA BAGCHI: Did you have any specific study techniques or strategies that helped you during your preparation?
ANIRUDH YADAV:Absolutely. One technique that worked well for me was to understand the syllabus thoroughly. This helped me focus my studies on the specific topics and areas mentioned in the syllabus. I also made concise notes to summarize the information I gathered from newspapers and other sources, which made it easier for me to revise. Additionally, regular revision and practice through mock tests played a crucial role in my preparation.
JOYMALA BAGCHI: What were the main challenges you faced during your UPSC journey and while studying?
ANIRUDH YADAV: One of the main challenges was the sacrifice of not being able to spend much time with family and friends. Another challenge was finding a balance between my studies and my love for sports, as it would sometimes affect my study time. Additionally, the everyday struggle of maintaining consistency, even on weekends when there was no break, was also a challenge.
JOYMALA BAGCHI:So, if I understand correctly, you’re saying that the UPSC preparation requires utmost dedication, with no room for a lazy or lethargic approach.
ANIRUDH YADAV: There are intense periods of focused study, especially in the three months leading up to the prelims and mains exams, where sacrifices must be made. However, in the remaining six months, there is some flexibility to take vacations, meet friends, and spend time with family, although the core focus remains essential.
JOYMALA BAGCHI: Anirudh, we understand that this was your fourth attempt. Could you share what you believe was lacking in your previous three attempts and what changed that led to your success in the fourth attempt?
ANIRUDH YADAV: Actually, there weren’t many significant changes. I cleared the exam in my first and second attempts as well. After my first attempt, I joined the railway personnel, and after the second attempt, I joined the information service. It’s the power of compounding that played a role. Continuously building on the knowledge gained, improving a little every day, and that ultimately yielded fruitful results.
JOYMALA BAGCHI: Anirudh, what message would you like to convey to the aspiring UPSC candidates who are taking their preparation seriously? What suggestions or advice do you have for them?
ANIRUDH YADAV: My message would be to believe in yourself. It is crucial to have the conviction that with hard work, you can achieve your goals. Additionally, maintaining discipline and focusing on your studies every day is key. This consistency sets apart successful aspirants from others. If your aim is to join the Indian bureaucracy and contribute to the administration, these qualities will be invaluable.
JOYMALA BAGCHI: Besides your UPSC preparation, Anirudh, what are your other interests and how do you spend your day? Is there anything related to education or preparation that you would like to highlight?
ANIRUDH YADAV: Apart from my UPSC preparation, I have a keen interest in playing squash. I enjoy spending time with friends, going out for dinners, and occasionally taking short holidays. In my free time, I often browse social media platforms like Instagram. As for education and preparation, I believe it is crucial to constantly adapt and update one’s knowledge to keep up with the evolving landscape. Continuous learning and self-improvement are essential in this field.
