https://indianmasterminds.com

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

The Power of Structured Thinking: Benjo P Jose’s Journey to UPSC Success

How did Benjo P Jose secure AIR 59 in UPSC CSE 2023? How did he manage Anthropology as his optional subject and how his innovative preparation strategy helped him crack the code? Read the full story to find out.
Indian Masterminds Stories

In the fiercely competitive landscape of the UPSC exams, where success hinges on strategy as much as knowledge, Benjo P Jose emerged as a standout candidate. Securing an All India Rank (AIR) 59 in the UPSC exams of 2023, Benjo’s achievement was not just a testament to his perseverance but also to his innovative approach to preparation. 

Benjo’s journey began with a critical realization early on in his preparation: traditional study methods alone wouldn’t suffice.

Structured Brainstorming: A Methodical Approach

Instead of relying solely on generic study tips, Benjo developed a methodical strategy centered around structured thinking.

“Thinking critically about each question and breaking it down into its components became my mantra,” he explained.

This approach allowed him to craft well-rounded answers that addressed not just the core of the question but also its broader implications. His preparation routine involved extensive brainstorming sessions, where he would dissect previous year questions and simulate exam conditions. “It’s about developing a framework in your mind,” Benjo emphasized.

Cracking UPSC with Anthropology as Optional

Benjo P Jose’s journey preparing for UPSC with Anthropology as his optional subject is a testament to meticulous planning and dedication. Mastering the diverse syllabus, he immersed himself in foundational texts like Ember and Ember and P. Nath’s works, supplementing his studies with current affairs integration. Benjo strategically linked anthropology with General Studies, enhancing his understanding of societal issues and governance through interdisciplinary learning.

At Rau’s IAS Study Circle, Benjo benefited significantly from the guidance of renowned faculty specializing in Anthropology. Their expert insights and structured teaching approach provided him with clarity on complex anthropological theories and their applications in contemporary contexts. Engaging in peer discussions and mentorship broadened his perspectives and honed his analytical skills, crucial for the exam’s demands. Despite challenges like managing the extensive syllabus and balancing depth with breadth, Benjo’s disciplined study routine and strategic mock test practice ensured he was well-prepared for the exam’s rigors.

Mangal Singh, faculty of Anthropology at Rau’s IAS Study Circle who mentored Benjo said,

“Benjo P Jose shattered stereotypes with his exceptional 303 marks in anthropology, proving that a nuanced approach and genuine curiosity trump clichés. His success underscores the importance of deep understanding and passion in achieving top scores in UPSC exams.”

Benjo’s journey underscores the importance of structured planning, interdisciplinary insights, and consistent practice in mastering Anthropology as an optional subject for UPSC. His commitment to understanding societal dynamics through anthropological lenses, supported by Rau’s IAS Study Circle’s expert faculty, exemplifies how thorough preparation and strategic application can pave the way for success in competitive examinations.

Breakthrough Moments and Right Guidance

A pivotal aspect of Benjo’s success lay in his ability to integrate contemporary issues like technology and globalization into his responses. Drawing on insights gained from discussions at Rau’s IAS, he highlighted how technological advancements are reshaping sectors like agriculture and governance. He cited the example of platforms like Kisan Krishi that provide real-time data which farmers can use to make informed decisions.

In tackling questions on globalization, Benjo discussed its dual impact on diversity and governance structures.

“Globalization isn’t just about economic integration,” he explained. “It influences cultural practices, governance models, and even international relations.”

His nuanced understanding, shaped by guidance from mentors at Rau’s IAS, helped him articulate these complex interconnections convincingly in his exam answers. Throughout his UPSC journey, Benjo benefited immensely from the structured guidance provided by Rau’s IAS. The institution’s comprehensive syllabus and mentorship programs played a pivotal role in his preparation.

“Rau’s IAS not only provided me with the necessary study material but also created an environment conducive to critical thinking and peer learning,” Benjo remarked.

Under the mentorship of experienced faculty members, Benjo honed his analytical skills and refined his approach to answer writing. “The mock tests and personalized feedback sessions were particularly helpful,” he added. “They simulated exam conditions and helped me identify and rectify my weaknesses.”

Inspiring Future Aspirants

Benjo’s journey to AIR 59 underscores the transformative power of structured thinking and effective guidance in UPSC preparation. As he looks forward to embarking on a career in the civil services, his success serves as an inspiration to aspirants navigating the complexities of the UPSC exams. 

Armed with a robust framework and a nuanced understanding of contemporary issues, Benjo P Jose exemplifies how strategic preparation can pave the way for success in India’s toughest competitive exams.


Indian Masterminds Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Related Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
NEWS
CM mohan yadav
CM Dr. Mohan Yadav to Lay Foundation Stone for Four Industrial Units in Sehore on August 2
Reserve-Bank-of-India_RBI_resized
Two Years After Withdrawal, Rs2,000 Notes Worth Rs6,017 Cr Still with Public: RBI
Maritime India
Sonowal Says India’s Maritime Sector Charts Green Future Under Maritime India Vision 2030
IRCTC
IRCTC Appoints Manoj Kumar Sharma as Director (Catering Services) with Additional Charge- Know More About Him
Ministry of Commerce
Nearly 2 Lakh Startups Registered on BHASKAR Platform Across India, Asserts Commerce Ministry
Union Bank of India UBI
Union Bank of India Elevates Vipan Singh as Chief General Manager Following Superannuation of Chander Mohan Minocha
India Algeria defence cooperation
India-Algeria Defence Seminar Boosts Bilateral Ties and Industrial Cooperation - Details Inside
Rahul Kumar
German Delegation Led by Rahul Kumar to Visit Uttarakhand, Focus on Youth Skill Development and Indo-German Cooperation
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
IAS Karn Satyarthi
How IAS Karn Satyarthi Transformed Gumla Through Empathy and Innovation
Ananth Rupanagudi IRAS
IRAS Ananth Rupanagudi’s Take on Corruption, Reform, and Duty
WhatsApp Image 2025-07-26 at 13.16
What Most Indians Don't Know About Jim Corbett
ADVERTISEMENT
UPSC Stories
BPSC Bihar police
From Lantern Light to Police Uniform: How Praveen Kumar from a Small Bihar Village Cracked BPSC to Become SDPO
From a lantern-lit village in Bihar to becoming an SDPO, Praveen Kumar's journey is a testament to resilience,...
IAS Priyansha Garg
Why Mindset Matters: IAS Priyansha Garg’s Mental Health Mantra for UPSC
After two failed prelims, Priyansha Garg cracked UPSC with AIR 31 in her fourth attempt, proving how...
Ashish Akshat
From Setback to State Topper: How Ashish Akshat Topped JPSC While Working Full-Time
Ashish Akshat from Dhanbad topped JPSC 2023, proving that resilience, discipline, and family support...
Social Media
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve: From India’s First Sanctuary to a Tiger Conservation Success Story | International Tiger Day Special
IAS Supriya Sahu Hails Mudumalai's Role in Tiger Conservation on Tiger Day. Declared in 1940, Now Among...
Mangroves
Mangroves: Nature’s Shield Against Disasters, Says Officer Parveen Kaswan on Mangroves Day - Watch His Post Here
Mangroves, with their dense, interlaced root systems, form a mesh-like structure that serves as a buffer...
Retired IPS Inderjit Singh Sidhu
Purpose Doesn’t Retire: How 88-Year-Old Retired DIG Becomes Chandigarh’s ‘Quiet Warrior’ of Cleanliness
Inderjit Singh Sidhu’s Dawn Patrol Earns Applause, Mahindra’s Praise for a Man Who Chose Action Over...
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Latest
CM mohan yadav
CM Dr. Mohan Yadav to Lay Foundation Stone for Four Industrial Units in Sehore on August 2
Reserve-Bank-of-India_RBI_resized
Two Years After Withdrawal, Rs2,000 Notes Worth Rs6,017 Cr Still with Public: RBI
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
IAS Karn Satyarthi
Ananth Rupanagudi IRAS
WhatsApp Image 2025-07-26 at 13.16
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT