“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” – C.S. Lewis
In the heartlands of Madhya Pradesh, beneath the scorching sun and amidst the whispering fields of Pipalkhunta village, a young girl once walked barefoot to school, helped her father till the land, and studied under the dim light of a kerosene lamp. That girl is now Ruchi Jat – a name that has become synonymous with grit, perseverance, and unstoppable willpower.
From working on a farm to becoming a Deputy Collector, Ruchi’s journey is not just a personal triumph, but a beacon of hope for thousands of young aspirants who dare to dream big despite humble beginnings. Her story, marked by failures, persistence, and eventual success, proves that background does not define destiny – determination does.
The Journey So Far: A Path Paved with Failures and Fortitude
Ruchi’s path to success was anything but easy. Her ambition to become an officer took shape during her graduation years, and she began preparing for the Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (MPPSC) exam — one of the most competitive state-level exams in India.
She moved to Indore after her graduation to focus fully on her preparations. For four years, she stayed away from her village, battling self-doubt, financial stress, and repeated failures. This was her fifth attempt at the MPPSC exam — a journey of six long years filled with disappointment, determination, and relentless effort.
But she never gave up.
In her own words, “Success may take time, but if the dedication is true, the destination is definitely reached.”
On her fifth attempt, Ruchi not only cleared the exam – she secured the 6th rank overall, and 2nd among girls across the state. This incredible feat has earned her the post of Deputy Collector, a dream she had nurtured through sweat, sacrifice, and sleepless nights.
Background: The Roots of a Dream
Born and raised in Pipalkhunta village in the Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh, Ruchi Jat hails from a modest farming family. Her father, Mohanlal Jat, is a farmer, and her mother, Yashoda Bai, is a homemaker. Their income was meager, but their support for Ruchi’s education was unwavering.
Ruchi completed her primary education in the village government school, later joining the best school in the district due to her academic excellence. She went on to pursue her B.Sc. in Computer Science from Rajiv Gandhi Government Postgraduate College, Mandsaur – all through government institutions.
Amidst household responsibilities, economic hardships, and helping her father in the fields, Ruchi never allowed her dreams to fade. She believed, right from the beginning, that education was her ticket to a better life – not just for herself, but for her family and community.
Preparation Strategy: Consistency, Clarity, and Courage
Ruchi’s preparation was grounded in discipline, resourcefulness, and consistency. Studying in government institutions her entire life, she did not have access to expensive coaching or material – but she maximized what she had.
Her key preparation elements included –
Strong Foundation: Ruchi built a strong base from her school and college education. Her background in science helped her develop analytical thinking.
Self-Study and Planning: She relied on planned, structured self-study sessions, making daily, weekly, and monthly goals.
Mock Interviews & Tests: In mock interviews, she impressed interviewers by confidently answering complex questions like the difference between Gen Z and Gen Alpha — showing both awareness and articulation.
MP-centric Knowledge: A focused approach on MP-specific history, geography, and current affairs helped her ace the exam.
Guidance and Mentorship: She credits her teachers from school to college for guiding her and shaping her journey.
Positive Mindset: Even after failing four times, she never let negativity take over. She saw each failure as a stepping stone.
“Failures are part of learning,” Ruchi says. “They taught me more than success ever could.”
Interview Experience: Confidence Built on Preparation
After clearing the written stages of the MPPSC exam, Ruchi faced the final hurdle – the personality test (interview round). For many candidates, this is the most unpredictable part of the process, but Ruchi handled it with calm confidence, thanks to her preparation and presence of mind.
In her mock interview, she was asked a variety of questions, including –
- “What is the difference between Gen Z and Gen Alpha?”
- “What are current issues specific to Madhya Pradesh?”
- “How would you solve challenges in rural governance?”
She answered them with clarity and composure, showcasing not just factual knowledge but also analytical thinking and cultural awareness – qualities that define a true administrator.
Turning Points: From Fields to Office
There were several defining moments in Ruchi’s journey –
Early Schooling in Village: Her selection into one of the district’s best schools post primary education gave her a much-needed boost.
Decision to Move to Indore: Despite financial strain, her move to Indore for focused preparation was crucial.
Support from Family: Her parents’ emotional and moral support became her biggest strength, especially during her low phases.
Fifth Attempt Victory: After four unsuccessful attempts, the fifth attempt became the breakthrough moment that changed her life forever.
Each of these moments pushed her closer to her goal. The journey from ploughing fields to clearing MPPSC wasn’t just about academic excellence – it was about emotional strength, mental clarity, and unshakeable belief.
Message to Aspirants: Keep the Fire Burning
Ruchi’s message to every aspirant – especially those from rural or underprivileged backgrounds – is crystal clear –
“Set goals and take small steps. Be consistent. Stay disciplined. Don’t be afraid of challenges. Your background doesn’t limit you – your mindset does.”
She emphasizes that a positive attitude, family support, and staying true to your dedication are more powerful than any external resource. “If you believe in your dream and are ready to work for it, nothing is impossible,” she says.
Beyond Books: Hobbies and Humanity
Apart from her academic brilliance, Ruchi is also a proud daughter of her culture. She loves performing the traditional Ghoomar dance and still enjoys working in the fields. Her grounded nature and cultural pride reflect the humility that has kept her connected to her roots.
Even as she steps into the role of Deputy Collector, Ruchi remains deeply aware of the needs of people like her – from small villages, with big dreams.
A Story That Will Inspire Generations
Ruchi Jat’s story is more than a success story – it’s a revolution of hope. She shattered every stereotype: that rural girls can’t compete, that government school students lack quality education, that failure means defeat. Her life proves otherwise.
From Pipalkhunta village to the Deputy Collector’s office, Ruchi’s path stands as a symbol of resilience, courage, and hope for every young aspirant sitting under a tree with a book and a dream.
She didn’t have fancy schools, expensive tutors, or shortcuts. But she had courage, consistency, and a family who believed in her.
And now, she is not just a daughter of Mandsaur, but an inspiration for all of Madhya Pradesh and beyond.
Let the world know that the girl who once walked through muddy farms now walks the halls of power – not by chance, but by choice, effort, and sheer will.
Ruchi Jat: From Soil to Service – A True Collector of Dreams.
