In the heartland of Gurdaspur, Punjab, resides a remarkable individual whose journey from academic struggles to securing the second rank in the UPSC exam is nothing short of inspiring. Meet IAS Rukmini Riar, a beacon of determination and resilience who defied the odds to achieve her dreams.
What sets Rukmini apart is her unconventional path to success. Unlike many aspirants, she did not rely on coaching institutes to prepare for the challenging UPSC examination. Instead, armed with sheer determination and a thirst for knowledge, she embarked on her journey armed with self-belief and hard work.
Rukmini’s educational journey was not without its share of challenges. Early on, she faced a setback as she failed in the 6th grade. Overcoming the feelings of shame and disappointment, she channeled her energies into achieving academic success. She pursued her higher education in her home district and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences from Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar.
However, Rukmini’s thirst for knowledge and her ambition to make a difference propelled her to further heights. She pursued her Masters in Social Sciences from the prestigious Tata Institute in Mumbai. During this period, she engaged with various social organizations, exemplifying her commitment to societal betterment.
With a dream to become an IAS officer, Rukmini embarked on her rigorous preparation journey. Her approach was grounded in a solid foundation – she began by meticulously studying the NCERT books from 6th to 12th grade. Recognizing the importance of staying updated, she embraced newspapers as her constant companion, enriching her knowledge and awareness.
The road to success was not without challenges. Rukmini’s dedication and hard work were put to the test as she faced the demanding UPSC examination. However, she remained steadfast and resolute, staying true to her goal. Her unyielding determination paid off in 2011 when she secured the second all India rank in the UPSC examination, a testament to her unwavering commitment and relentless pursuit of excellence.
IAS Rukmini Riar’s journey serves as a shining example of how adversity can be transformed into triumph through sheer determination, self-belief, and hard work. Her story encourages aspiring individuals to embrace their challenges, channel their efforts toward personal growth, and work tirelessly towards their goals.
In a world often defined by coaching classes and shortcuts, Rukmini’s story reminds us that true success is born out of passion, dedication, and the willingness to overcome obstacles. Her journey from academic struggles to UPSC triumph is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset and unwavering determination, one can achieve the seemingly impossible.