Krishna Chandra Gupta, the recipient of AIR-142 in the UPSC CSE 2022 Examination, embarks on an inspirational journey of academic excellence and unwavering determination.
A Foundation for Success
From a young age, Gupta displayed an exceptional zeal for learning. As a front-bench student, he exuded confidence and eagerly answered questions. However, as his academic journey progressed, he realized the potential limitations of his initial approach. Seeking a broader perspective, he strategically opted to sit at the back of the class.
This vantage point proved transformative. Among the back-benchers, often overlooked by others, Gupta discovered a unique perspective that challenged conventional wisdom and encouraged alternative thinking. This realization ignited within him a thirst for knowledge that extended beyond traditional boundaries.
Forging a Path Despite Obstacles
Gupta’s academic path encountered its share of challenges. During his final school year, a period of academic underperformance served as a catalyst for introspection and resilience. Undeterred, he pursued a college degree, excelling academically and securing a top placement in his branch.
Fate continued to favor him when he earned merit in both the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy at the age of 22. However, his seemingly idyllic journey took an unexpected turn when he resolved to crack the UPSC exam.
The Agony of Repeated Failures
Gupta’s first attempt at the UPSC exam fell short of his expectations. Determined not to be deterred, he persevered, taking the exam four more times, each time falling short of his goal. The weight of disappointment and self-doubt gradually took its toll, tarnishing his once-unshaken confidence.
The most disheartening attempt was his fourth, when he failed to clear even the
preliminary stage of the exam. This setback was particularly bitter as he witnessed a friend, attempting the exam for the first time, secure a coveted rank under 150.
A Wake-Up Call and a Change of Course
The failure of Gupta’s fourth attempt served as a rude awakening. It forced him to confront his limitations and reassess his approach to preparation. He realized he had been relying solely on his past academic successes without adapting to the specific demands of the UPSC exam.
To rectify this, Gupta overhauled his entire study strategy. He immersed himself in the subject matter, sought guidance from experts, and meticulously analyzed previous question
papers. He spent countless hours studying and practicing, determined to leave no stone unturned.
The Importance of Mental Health
As Gupta delved deeper into his preparation, he encountered an unexpected challenge—mental health issues. The constant pressure and uncertainty of the exam began to take a toll on his well-being.
He experienced anxiety, insomnia, and a persistent feeling of inadequacy. It was during this trying time that Gupta recognized the critical importance of maintaining a healthy mental state. He began taking breaks from studying to engage in activities that brought him joy and relaxation.
A Breakthrough in Preparation
One of the most significant breakthroughs in Gupta’s preparation came through the realization that the key to success lies not only in the quantity of material covered but also in the quality of understanding.
He shifted his focus from memorizing vast amounts of information to truly comprehending the concepts and their interrelationships. This approach proved to be far more effective in boosting his performance in the prelims.
The Importance of External Support
While Gupta’s determination and perseverance were undoubtedly key ingredients in his eventual success, it would be remiss of him not to acknowledge the invaluable support he received from his family and friends.
His sister, who had always been his pillar of strength, played a crucial role in boosting his morale and providing much-needed emotional support. She encouraged him to step outside his comfort zone, explore new perspectives, and never give up on his dreams.
His parents, despite living far away, were always there for him, offering their unwavering love and encouragement. Even when he failed to live up to his own expectations, they never doubted his abilities.
The Triumph of Perseverance
With each attempt, Gupta’s chances of success grew slimmer. However, he refused to let doubt or discouragement extinguish the fire within him. He continued to study diligently, drawing inspiration from the words of Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
Finally, on his fifth attempt, Gupta’s efforts bore fruit. He secured AIR-142 in the UPSC CSE 2022 Examination. Words cannot fully express the joy, relief, and sense of accomplishment that washed over him in that moment. If you all are looking for UPSC coaching then you can take classes from Forum ias.
