Meet IAS Mamta Yadav who cleared UPSC not once, but twice:
Mamta Yadav’s journey to becoming an IAS officer is a testament to perseverance and hard work. Hailing from a modest background in the small village of Basai in Haryana, she managed to clear the UPSC Civil Services Examination not just once, but twice, significantly improving her rank from AIR-556 to AIR-05. Her story is one of determination and unwavering commitment to her goals.
Coming from a family with limited financial means, Mamta’s mother was a homemaker, and her father worked in a private company. Growing up, Mamta was acutely aware of her family’s financial struggles and dreamed of improving their situation. This dream became her driving force, motivating her to dedicate herself wholeheartedly to her studies.
After completing her schooling at Balwant Rai Mehta School in Greater Kailash, Delhi, Mamta pursued higher education at Hindu College of Delhi University. Upon graduating, she received a job offer but chose to decline it in order to focus entirely on her UPSC preparation. This decision marked the beginning of an intense period of study and preparation for one of India’s most challenging exams.
Mamta’s daily routine was rigorous. She studied for eight to ten hours a day, increasing to ten to twelve hours as the exam date approached. Her dedication and discipline were unwavering, driven by her desire to achieve her dream and provide a better life for her family. Her first attempt at the UPSC exam in 2019 resulted in a commendable AIR-556. While this was an impressive achievement, Mamta was not satisfied. She knew she could do better and decided to try again in 2020.
Her second attempt was marked by even greater focus and determination. Mamta’s hard work paid off spectacularly when she secured AIR-05, a dramatic improvement from her previous rank. This achievement underscored her belief that with hard work and the right direction, any goal is attainable. When asked about the secret to her success, Mamta emphasized that there is no goal too difficult to achieve if one is willing to put in the effort and work diligently.
Mamta’s story is not just about personal achievement but also about overcoming obstacles and defying the odds. Growing up in a below-poverty family, she faced numerous challenges. Yet, these challenges only fueled her determination to succeed. Her journey from a small village in Haryana to becoming one of the top rankers in the UPSC exam is an inspiration to many aspiring civil servants.
Her decision to forgo a job opportunity after graduation to focus on her UPSC dream speaks volumes about her dedication. It was a risk, but one that Mamta was willing to take. She understood that achieving her goal required full commitment and was prepared to make the necessary sacrifices. Her family’s support also played a crucial role in her success. They believed in her abilities and encouraged her to pursue her dreams.
Mamta’s daily study routine was structured and disciplined. She balanced her time between different subjects, ensuring that she covered the entire syllabus comprehensively. Her preparation strategy included not just studying but also practicing previous years’ question papers and taking mock tests. This approach helped her identify her strengths and weaknesses, allowing her to focus on areas that needed improvement.
Her success in the UPSC exam has not only transformed her life but also brought immense pride to her family and village. Mamta’s achievement serves as a beacon of hope for many young aspirants, especially those from similar backgrounds. It proves that with determination, hard work, and the right mindset, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve their dreams.
Reflecting on her journey, Mamta often emphasizes the importance of self-belief and perseverance. She encourages other aspirants to stay focused on their goals and not be disheartened by failures. According to her, each setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Her own experience of not being satisfied with her initial rank and deciding to try again is a perfect example of this mindset.
Mamta’s story also highlights the importance of proper guidance and resources. While she dedicated herself to studying, she also sought guidance from mentors and utilized various study materials. This combination of self-study and external guidance helped her navigate the complexities of the UPSC exam.
In addition to her personal determination, Mamta’s journey underscores the significance of familial support. Her parents’ unwavering faith in her abilities and their encouragement played a vital role in her success. Their belief in her potential gave Mamta the confidence to aim higher and strive for excellence.
Mamta Yadav’s journey from a small village in Haryana to securing one of the top ranks in the UPSC Civil Services Examination is a story of grit, determination, and hard work. Her achievement is a powerful reminder that with dedication and the right mindset, any goal is achievable. For aspiring civil servants and others pursuing their dreams, Mamta’s story serves as a source of inspiration and motivation, proving that with hard work and perseverance, the sky is the limit.
