Aditya Srivastava: From IIT Kanpur to UPSC Topper
Aditya Srivastava is a remarkable individual who has achieved significant milestones in his academic and professional journey. He cracked the JEE Mains with an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 194, pursued engineering at IIT Kanpur, and later made the bold decision to quit a lucrative job to pursue his dream of becoming an IAS officer. His story serves as an inspiration to many aspiring civil servants in India.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Aditya was always an academically inclined student. He completed his primary education at CMS School in Aliganj, Lucknow, where he excelled in his studies. Aditya achieved a remarkable score of 97.8% in his Class 10 Board exams and followed it up with a score of 97.5% in his Class 12 Board examinations.
Engineering Aspirations
With a strong academic background, Aditya aimed to pursue a career in engineering. He took the JEE Mains, one of the most challenging entrance exams for engineering colleges in India, and performed exceptionally well. His hard work paid off when he secured admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur.
Academic Achievements at IIT Kanpur
At IIT Kanpur, Aditya pursued a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering. He continued to excel academically and later completed his Master of Technology (M.Tech) in the same field at the same institution. His time at IIT Kanpur not only equipped him with technical knowledge but also instilled in him the values of perseverance and dedication.
Professional Journey
After completing his education, Aditya was fortunate to secure a high-paying job with a multinational company, earning a salary of Rs 40 lakh per annum. He worked in Bangalore for about one and a half years, gaining valuable experience in the corporate world. However, despite the financial security, Aditya felt a calling towards public service, inspired by his father’s wishes.
Turning Point: Quitting the Job
Aditya’s father, Ajay Srivastava, who works as an Assistant Audit Officer in the Central Audit Office, had always hoped that his son would enter civil service. Motivated by his father’s aspirations and his own desire to serve the nation, Aditya made the bold decision to leave his lucrative job. He took this step just a month before starting his preparation for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Exam in 2021.
Challenges and Initial Setbacks
Aditya’s journey was not without challenges. He faced disappointment when he failed to clear the UPSC Civil Service exam in his first attempt in 2021. However, he did not let this setback deter him. With the unwavering support of his family, he redoubled his efforts and committed himself to rigorous preparation for the next attempt.
Preparation Strategy
To prepare for the UPSC exam, Aditya utilized a variety of resources. He relied heavily on NCERT textbooks, which provided a strong foundation in various subjects. Additionally, he leveraged online resources, including YouTube, to enhance his understanding of complex topics. His disciplined approach and effective time management played crucial roles in his preparation.
Success in UPSC Exams
Aditya’s hard work paid off when he successfully passed the UPSC Civil Service exam in 2022, achieving a rank of 236 and becoming an IPS officer. However, he did not stop there; he continued to strive for excellence and, in 2023, he topped the UPSC exam with an All India Rank of 1, securing his position as an IAS officer. He was subsequently allocated to his home state of Uttar Pradesh.
Key Takeaways from Aditya’s Journey
- Perseverance: Aditya’s journey highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.
- Support System: The encouragement from his family played a vital role in his success.
- Effective Preparation: Utilizing a variety of study materials and resources can enhance understanding and retention.
- Time Management: Balancing preparation with personal well-being is crucial for success.
Conclusion
Aditya Srivastava’s story is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. From his early academic achievements to his success in the UPSC exams, he has shown that with the right mindset and support, it is possible to achieve one’s dreams. His journey serves as an inspiration for countless aspirants who wish to follow in his footsteps and make a difference in the civil services of India.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on available data as of October 2023 and may be subject to change.

