Uma Harathi N, an engineering graduate from Telangana, has achieved an impressive feat by securing the third rank in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination 2022. Her journey to success was not without its challenges, as it took her five attempts to clear the civil services exam. Today, she shares an important message for young aspirants: “It’s okay to fail. I failed so many times. Just be proud of yourself.”
Uma, who graduated from IIT-Hyderabad, is among the talented women who have claimed the top four positions in the UPSC exam. Alongside her are Ishita Kishore (AIR 1), Garima Lohia (AIR 2), and Smriti Mishra (AIR 4), all graduates of Delhi University.
Reflecting on her journey, Uma emphasized the significance of learning from mistakes and self-discovery. She acknowledged the support of her family and friends, particularly her father, who played a vital role in motivating her toward a career in civil services. Uma expressed that her father emphasized the tremendous potential of civil services as a platform to make a meaningful impact.
The 28-year-old civil engineering graduate emphasized that there is no single formula for success. She attributed perseverance as the key factor in achieving one’s goals. Uma encouraged aspiring candidates to take ownership of the entire process, including the exam, strategy, failures, setbacks, and successes. By doing so, individuals will be better prepared to face any outcome, even if they do not clear the exam.
Uma also offered valuable advice to students, suggesting that they focus on reading only what is necessary and practicing extensively. She highlighted the competitive nature of the exam and emphasized the importance of practice in determining success. Having a well-defined strategy and putting in the necessary effort are crucial elements in cracking the UPSC exam, according to Uma, a resident of Narayanpet.
Ishita Kishore, the topper of the UPSC exam, also shared her formula for success. She emphasized the importance of sincerity, discipline, and hard work. Intelligence alone is not enough to crack the UPSC exam, and candidates must dedicate themselves to putting in the required hours and effort, according to Ishita, an Economic graduate.
The UPSC examination, conducted annually in three stages – preliminary, main, and interview – selects officers for prestigious services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and Indian Police Service (IPS), among others. This year, a total of 933 candidates, including 613 men and 320 women, cleared the exam. Among the top 25 candidates, 14 are women and 11 are men, indicating the increasing representation of women in the civil services.
Uma Harathi N’s achievement serves as an inspiration to aspiring civil servants, highlighting the importance of resilience, learning from failures, and putting in dedicated efforts to achieve one’s goals. Her message to young aspirants reinforces the idea that setbacks are a part of the journey and should not deter individuals from pursuing their dreams.
