Pooja Gupta from Delhi has scripted an inspiring success story, showing how determination, perseverance, and hard work can turn dreams into reality.
After completing her 12th grade, Pooja initially pursued medical studies but was inspired by her mother, a sub-inspector, to join civil services. She started preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) and, in her first attempt in 2018, secured All India Rank 147, becoming an IPS officer.
However, Pooja’s grandfather had always dreamed of seeing her as an IAS officer. Balancing her IPS job with rigorous preparation, she gave the UPSC CSE again in 2020. This time, she achieved AIR 42, leaving her IPS post to join the IAS and fulfill her grandfather’s wish.
Pooja’s preparation strategy included thorough self-study using NCERT books, current affairs magazines, newspapers, and YouTube videos of toppers’ interviews. Her optional subject was Anthropology. She emphasizes the importance of regular self-assessment to identify strengths and weaknesses, refine strategies, and improve performance.
Her journey from IPS to IAS exemplifies dedication, sacrifice, and relentless pursuit of one’s goals, inspiring thousands of UPSC aspirants across the country.