“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
In a world where doubt often overshadows ambition, where obstacles are many and opportunities scarce, some individuals rise with the clarity of purpose and the fire of determination. One such shining example is Harshita Dave, who has etched her name in history by securing Rank 5 in the MPPSC-2024 and emerging as the women topper of the exam – all at the tender age of 22.
Today, Harshita stands proud as a soon-to-be Deputy Collector, proving that with grit, grace, and guidance, no dream is too distant.
Indian Masterminds interacted with Ms Dave to learn more about her inspiring journey and how she became a topper through grit and determination.
Journey So Far – Two Attempts, One Glorious Victory
Harshita’s path to success wasn’t a straight one. She made her first attempt in MPPSC 2023, where she cleared the prelims but couldn’t crack the mains. Many would have stopped there, but Harshita was not many. With renewed focus and fire, she returned in 2024 for her second attempt – and this time, not only cleared it but topped it, becoming the women topper and securing Rank 5 overall.
She was already preparing for the MPPSC 2025 mains when the 2024 result was declared – a testament to her consistency and determination.
Reflecting on her journey, she shares, “I had set a three-year deadline for myself. I believed in the law of attraction – if we truly want something and focus on it, the universe helps us get it. Every phase had its struggles – mental, emotional, sometimes physical – but I came out stronger. I evolved into a better version of myself during this journey.”
Background – A Legacy of Values, A Childhood of Dreams
Harshita hails from a family where education, values, and culture run deep. Her father, Dr. Vikas Dave, is the Director at the Sahitya Academy, and her mother, Sunita Dave, is a Hindi teacher in private schools. Her elder brother, Hardik Dave, is a news anchor, and her early schooling was at Saraswati Shishu Mandir and Madhav Vidyapeeth, institutions she proudly credits for her foundational values.
From a young age, Harshita was drawn to the stage, actively participating in international debate competitions, oratory, and acting. However, it was her grandmother, Sushila Dave, whose unfulfilled dream of joining the administrative services sowed the seed in Harshita’s heart. Her grandmother had to abandon her education and marry in 1966 – and Harshita made it her mission to fulfill that legacy.
With a consistent academic record, Harshita pursued Arts in 11th and 12th, and graduated in History, Political Science, and Sociology. She recently completed her Master’s in Political Science (MA) in 2023 – all while preparing for one of the toughest state service exams in India.
Biggest Struggle – From the Spotlight to Solitude
One of Harshita’s biggest personal struggles was not the vast syllabus or tough competition – but giving up the stage she loved so dearly.
“I was always social, active in debates, oratory, and stage management. To withdraw from that vibrant world and focus solely on books was my biggest challenge. But I made that tough choice – and eventually, studying became my new passion.”
This sacrifice – trading applause for persistence – became the defining turning point of her preparation.
Preparation Strategy – Small Daily Goals, Big Results
Harshita’s preparation strategy is a masterclass in discipline and clarity. She followed a 12–14-hour daily schedule, enrolled in coaching, and divided the massive syllabus into manageable daily goals.
“Instead of worrying about the entire syllabus, I broke it down into daily targets. I had to complete specific topics and units each day. That gave me daily satisfaction and momentum. I also focused on short notes, continuous revision, and practicing questions – especially learning from the mistakes I made in my first attempt.”
Her emphasis on short notes for mains, writing practice, and targeted revision laid the foundation for her outstanding performance.
The Interview – A Stage Revisited
Ironically, the stage Harshita once gave up came calling again – this time, in her interview round. The panel asked her to deliver a speech on “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”, tapping into her oratory roots.
She was also quizzed on –
- Sociology concepts and challenges in rural India (her major)
- The New Education Policy
- Gender inequality in certain states
- And other personalized questions from her DAF (Detailed Application Form)
Her confident, thoughtful answers impressed the board – proving that her personality and preparation had aligned perfectly.
Message to Aspirants – Perseverance is Success
Harshita’s message to other aspirants is as humble as it is profound –
“No one can predict how long your journey will take. Some clear it in the first attempt, others in the seventh. But as long as you’re trying, you are already successful. Being an aspirant means being hopeful – and hope is powerful. If success comes, wonderful. If it doesn’t, trust that God has a better plan you cannot yet see. Whatever happens, it will be good – even great. Just don’t give up.”
Her story stands as a beacon of resilience, especially for girls from smaller towns, reminding them that with the right mindset and support, the sky is not the limit – it’s only the beginning.
A Family’s Pride, A Nation’s Inspiration
Harshita’s entire family is beaming with pride. Her mother joyfully said –
“Daughters are in no way less than sons.”
Her father added, “Harshita’s success is not just a family achievement; it’s a tribute to our mentors, our values, and the belief that daughters can bring glory to generations.”
Her victory isn’t just personal – it’s generational, fulfilling a grandmother’s dream, elevating her family’s name, and inspiring millions of young women to believe in the power of their aspirations.
Final Word
Harshita Dave’s story is not just about becoming a Deputy Collector at 22. It’s about transforming pain into power, passion into purpose, and a girl into a symbol of hope, hard work, and heritage.
To every aspirant reading this – remember Harshita’s journey. The nights of sacrifice, the tears of failure, the focus, the faith – it all adds up. And someday, it will add up to your success story too.
This is more than a success story. This is a legacy in the making. And her name… is Harshita Dave.
