“UPSC is not just an exam; it’s an emotion.” These words may seem exaggerated to some, but for those who are aspiring, they ring true. Aspirants pour their heart and soul into this journey, working tirelessly and passionately, regardless of the setbacks they face. Even the deepest heartbreaks cannot deter them. Instead, they use these challenges as stepping stones, climbing higher towards their ultimate goal.
Meet Mr. Donthula Revanth Chandra, an Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer from the 2022 batch of Telangana. He cracked the UPSC exam on his third attempt and achieved his dream of becoming an IFS officer. But his journey doesn’t end there. He is still preparing for another UPSC exam, aiming to improve his rank and pursue a career in the IAS.
His story is not just inspiring but also fascinating, as he managed to prepare for three different UPSC exams simultaneously – a feat that most would consider impossible. Yet, as the saying goes, “Where there is a will, there is a way.” Revanth has proven that with determination, anything is achievable, and he continues to chase his next dream.
Indian Masterminds recently had the privilege of interacting with Mr. Revanth to learn more about his incredible and unique journey.
JOURNEY SO FAR
Revanth began his UPSC journey in 2018, shortly after completing his graduation. What was truly remarkable about his approach was that he wasn’t just preparing for one, but for three UPSC exams simultaneously: the Civil Services Examination (CSE), the Indian Forest Service (IFS), and the Indian Engineering Services (IES).
In his first attempt in 2019, he couldn’t even qualify for the prelims in CSE and IES. Undeterred, he tried again in 2020, but once again, he failed to clear the prelims. However, in his third attempt, he made it to the interview stage for the IFS and cleared it, securing an All India Rank of 81. This marked his achievement of becoming an Indian Forest Service officer. He currently serves as ACF/FDO at Kawal Tiger Reserve in Utnoor Division, Telangana.
Despite this success, Revanth didn’t stop there. In his fourth attempt in 2022, he successfully cleared the prelims but fell short in the mains exam. Determined to succeed, he gave it another shot in 2023, but once again, he could not qualify for the prelims. This year, he took breaks and will give the exam when he feels completely ready.
He said, “My journey is not different from others. I followed a simple path and focused on my goal. Preparing for three exams together was not very hard for me, as the optional subject was my graduation subject. I also stayed focused on my goal and divided my time for every topic.”
INTERVIEW TIPS
When giving interview tips, Revanth shared that the questions asked during the UPSC interview can vary depending on the board members. For example, you might be asked about the history or geography of the region you come from. This makes the UPSC interview somewhat discretionary, as each board member may have their own area of interest. However, the key is to complete your preparation thoroughly and be ready to present it from all angles.
The second most important aspect to focus on is your personality. If you’re not able to understand your own personality, it will be difficult to crack the interview. Self-awareness is crucial – not only in understanding your strengths and weaknesses but also in your academic background. Board members also assess your analytical abilities. They want to see how certain you are of your opinions. For example, if you suggest something, how do you analyze it? Why do you believe it will work? How can it create a win-win situation for all stakeholders? The ability to critically analyze situations and reflect that in your responses is essential.
BACKGROUND
Revanth hails from Warangal, Telangana. His father, now retired, and his mother, a homemaker, have been his pillars of support.
He completed his early education in his hometown, finishing school up to the 12th grade. Later, he pursued a degree in Civil Engineering from IIT Roorkee, where he completed his graduation in 2018. He has also completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Law (PGDEL) from the National Law School of India University in Bengaluru in 2023.
UPSC PREPARATION
Revanth was preparing for three exams simultaneously, but he never found it too difficult. He credited the strong guidance he received from his seniors at IIT, as well as fellow UPSC aspirants, for helping him through the process. “I had great support around me, and they played a huge role in my preparation,” he said.
For his prelims preparation, he focused mainly on Previous Year Questions (PYQs). He solved the last 15 years’ worth of PYQs, analyzing the questions and understanding their patterns. He also emphasized the importance of thoroughly analyzing the syllabus. “Apart from basic studying, one needs to have a deep understanding of the PYQs and syllabus,” he explained.
Test series were another crucial part of his strategy. He strongly believes that learning from them is key to improving.
For the IFS exam, his chosen options were Forestry and Civil Engineering, while for the CSE, he opted for Civil Engineering as his optional subject.
HIS INTERVIEW
Revanth’s interview went well, although he was thoroughly grilled by the board. Most of the questions were based on his background, particularly Civil Engineering. There were also questions related to his Detailed Application Form (DAF) and current affairs.
Since he studied at IIT Roorkee, one of the questions was about the GB Pant University. He responded confidently, discussing its focus on agricultural studies. Reflecting on his experience, he said, “My interview was mostly technical, with most questions coming from Civil Engineering. Therefore, a thorough preparation of your background is absolutely necessary.”
SUGGESTIONS
Giving advice to UPSC aspirants, Revanth emphasized, “Prepare in every possible way. Surround yourself with good peers who can help you in your studies. Engage in group discussions. The issues in the exam often repeat, so focus on your goal and maintain consistency.”
He further added, “Always understand what this exam truly demands. Beyond your question papers, UPSC is about communication with people. Always keep this in mind.”
