In a world where ambition often follows predictable paths, the journey of 2020 batch UPPCS officer Sangeeta Raghav stands apart – rooted in self-discovery, discipline, and a deep desire to serve. From practicing yoga as a seeker to representing Uttar Pradesh on a national stage, and from leaving behind a promising academic career to securing a top rank in the UP PCS exam, her story is a powerful reminder that true success begins within.
Her journey is not just about clearing an examination or holding a position of authority – it is about finding purpose, staying grounded, and continuously striving to grow.
Indian Masterminds interacted with Ms Sangeeta Raghav to learn more about her inspiring PCS journey and transformative yoga experience.
A Historic Step in Yoga Arena
Sangeeta created history when she became the first female magistrate from Uttar Pradesh to participate in the All India Civil Services Yogasana Championship held in Chandigarh.
In the 2026 edition of the championship, her performance once again drew immense appreciation, especially for her grace, strength, and artistic expression. Her participation marked not just a personal milestone but also a significant moment for representation from Uttar Pradesh.
Read Also: Meet Lakhimpur Kheri’s Sachin Verma, Who Cracked UPSC CSE and UPPCS in the Same Year
Despite competing alone – without a full state team – she carried the spirit of UP with pride. Observing other states like Odisha, Maharashtra, Puducherry, and Bengal arrive with large, well-trained teams, she felt both inspired and determined to build a similar culture back home.
Yoga: The Turning Point
For Sangeeta, yoga is not just a physical practice – it is a way of life.
She began practicing yoga and meditation in 2015, long before stepping into civil services. According to her, yoga brought clarity and direction at a time when she was still exploring her path.
“Yoga and meditation are life-changing. They enhance your awareness and observation, and help you understand what you truly want to do in life,” she said.
While pursuing her PhD at JNU, she experienced a phase of uncertainty. It was yoga that helped her reconnect with herself and realize her deeper calling.
She considers herself a Sadhak (spiritual practitioner), someone who practices yoga not just for fitness, but for inner growth and understanding.
From Practice to Performance
Her entry into competitive yoga was unexpected.
While in Lucknow, she met her coach Dr. Malvika, who recognized her potential and encouraged her to participate in the Civil Services Yogasana Championship. Initially hesitant – since performing on stage is very different from personal practice – Sangeeta decided to take the leap.
She cleared three selection trials to reach Chandigarh.
At the championship, she participated in –
- Artistic Yoga – where she performed a powerful routine themed on Devi, blending yoga with expressive movement
- Traditional Yoga – where she held challenging asanas for extended durations with precision and control
Her artistic performance, especially in a red attire symbolizing divine energy, went viral and earned widespread praise.
Learning Beyond Winning
Though it was her first competitive appearance, Sangeeta performed remarkably well, securing a position just below top ranks.
She openly acknowledges that many participants were international-level athletes, recruited through sports quotas in various government departments.
States like Haryana, Odisha, Maharashtra, Bengal, and Puducherry had participants who had been practicing yoga as a sport for over a decade.
She said, “They truly deserved their positions. Competing with them was itself a learning experience.”
She also highlighted the need for fairer age categories, suggesting separate groups for 20–30 and 30–40 years to ensure balanced competition.
Roots in Haryana, Dreams Beyond
Sangeeta hails from Gurgaon, Haryana, and has an impressive academic background:
- B.Sc. and M.Sc.
- NET-JRF
- ICAR-NET
She was pursuing a PhD in Environmental Sciences from JNU before choosing a completely different path.
The Moment of Realization
While working on a World Bank project in collaboration with the South Asian Institute, Sangeeta traveled to regions like Nepal and Himachal Pradesh. There, she closely witnessed the challenges faced by people in remote areas.
What struck her most was the hope people placed in government officials—the belief that they could bring change.
That realization changed everything.
It was no longer about academic success – it became about service.
The Bold Decision
Leaving behind a PhD at a prestigious institution like JNU and stepping away from opportunities linked to global organizations like the World Bank was not easy.
But Sangeeta chose purpose over comfort.
She began her UP PCS preparation in 2017, dedicating 12–13 hours daily to her studies. Her first attempt in 2017 was more of an exploration, and she did not clear it.
In 2018, with refined strategy and unwavering determination, she secured second rank in the UP PCS examination – a remarkable achievement.
Serving with Dedication
After becoming an officer, Sangeeta served as Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Saharanpur, where she showcased exceptional leadership.
Her work during Operation Sindoor, in collaboration with the Indian Air Force, earned her recognition and honor – highlighting her ability to handle complex situations with efficiency and coordination.
Currently, she serves as OSD at Lucknow Development Authority (LDA), where her work reflects –
- Discipline
- Transparency
- Accountability
A Message for Aspirants
Sangeeta’s journey carries a powerful message for every civil services aspirant –
- Stay consistent and disciplined
- Work hard, but also stay connected to your purpose
- Never forget your roots and why you started
“Luck is not just chance – it is also about your intentions. Why you want something matters,” she added.
She believes that many people lose their way after achieving success, forgetting the very purpose that drove them.
Looking Ahead: Building a Team for UP
Having experienced the championship alone, Sangeeta now dreams bigger.
She hopes to build a strong Uttar Pradesh team of yoga practitioners within the civil services and represent the state at a larger scale.
“This was just the beginning. Next time, we will come as a team – and aim for a medal.”
An Inspiration Beyond Titles
Sangeeta Raghav’s story is not just about becoming an officer or performing on a national stage. It is about courage – the courage to change direction, to embrace failure, and to pursue excellence with humility.
From a yoga practitioner seeking inner clarity to a civil servant shaping lives, her journey proves one simple truth:
When passion meets discipline and purpose, no dream is out of reach.
Read Also: From Forests to Water Banks: How Surat is Rewriting India’s Water Conservation Story
