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In a country where lakhs of students dream of cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination, one name has stood out – Shakti Dubey, the All India Rank 1 (AIR 1) holder of 2024. Hailing from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, Shakti’s journey wasn’t just about academics, it was about patience, focus, and a strong sense of purpose.
From a science graduate to an educator and now the country’s top civil services candidate, Shakti’s story has many valuable lessons, especially for children growing up with dreams of their own. Here’s what truly stands out about her life and what youngsters can take away from her inspiring path.
Patience is not weakness – it’s strength
Shakti began her UPSC journey in 2018 and succeeded in 2025, taking 7 years to reach her goal.
In an age of instant results, it’s important to understand that success sometimes takes time. Shakti’s efforts over 7 long years are proof that real achievement isn’t rushed—it’s built, one day at a time. This teaches children that delayed success is still success, and staying patient is more powerful than quick wins.
UPSC IAS रिजल्ट 2025
Be rooted, but think big
Great dreams aren’t limited to metro cities. Shakti studied in Prayagraj and then moved on to study at the University of Allahabad and Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Her story is a reminder that big cities don’t always guarantee success; it is the environment that we create around us that should encourage learning and ambition. Being rooted in one’s background can be a source of inner strength.
Knowledge is power – but curiosity is the key
Shakti completed her post-graduation in Biochemistry, a subject in the field of science. Studying science sharpened her analytical mind, but it was her curiosity about governance and public administration that led her to choose Political Science as her optional subject in UPSC. Children can learn from this that curiosity can open new doors. It’s not just about scoring marks but about asking “why” and “how” that brings real understanding.
UPSC
Teaching builds leaders
Shakti briefly worked as a teacher after completing her studies. Teaching is not just about sharing knowledge, it’s about learning how to communicate, lead, and mentor others. Even though details about her teaching journey are limited, this phase of her life helped her develop skills that were crucial for the UPSC Personality Test. Children can learn that helping others learn can also shape their own growth.
Preparation needs planning, not panic
Shakti chose Political Science and International Relations as her optional subject, showing a strategic shift from science to social science. Her preparation wasn’t random—it was planned, focused, and aligned with her growing interest in administration. Children can understand from this that good planning beats blind hard work. Instead of cramming everything, understanding what works and sticking to it consistently can be far more effective.
