From not even knowing what UPSC is to cracking the CSE examination in his third attempt, Shivin’s life has been an incredible journey to success, albeit with all its ups and downs. Belonging to a family of farmers, he decided not to get involved in his family business early on and instead work for the people of the nation.
This passion brought him to the steps of UPSC and he finally achieved his dream in 2022 when the results of CSE 2021 came out and his name was on the list of successful candidates. In an exclusive conversation with Indian Masterminds, Shivin talked about his journey into UPSC and more.
EARLY LIFE
Born and brought up in rural Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, Shivin belongs to an agrarian family. His parents toiled hard in the fields from the beginning to provide proper education and life to their children.
He studied in a Hindi medium school in the district and his academic brilliancy took him places. He scored good marks in his school pass out exams and got admission in Delhi University for graduation.
UPSC was never on Shivin’s mind during his school days. In fact, he hadn’t even heard about it and was completely unaware of an exam like the CSE. But one particular incident changed his life and helped him make up his mind to sit for the UPSC CSE exam.
INSPIRATION FOR UPSC
When he was in class 11 in school, Shivin met a young man who was an alumnus of his school. This particular man was the district topper of his batch and was extremely brilliant in his studies.
“When he passed class 12th and became district topper, he made a statement saying that he will put in all his efforts to serve his country and develop his district after he becomes an IAS officer. That was the first time when I heard about Indian Administrative Service and Civil Services Examination. Almost immediately I was inclined towards it since I had already been taking part in social activities and NGOs since I was small, and what better way to change people’s lives than through civil services, right?”, he shared with Indian Masterminds.
PREPARATION FOR UPSC
Before getting into Civil Services, Shivin was selected for the post of Assistant Commandant in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in the year 2019. He started his preparation for UPSC in the year 2018 and began by reading and understanding NCERT books.
“Some people neglect NCERT books altogether but I believe they form an important part of the curriculum and should not be neglected,” states Shivin.
He believes NCERT books help one in strengthening their core and form the foundation of the preparation. Looking at the current pattern of the examination, Shivin reckons that one need not necessarily take coaching for preparation. If they study NCERT and standard study sources for each subject thoroughly, they will be good to go.
ADVICE FOR ASPIRANTS
Till a few days ago, Shivin was also an aspirant. Today, he is a civil servant who wishes the best for all those candidates who want to give the examination in the future.
Imparting a few words of wisdom, Shivin said, “To crack the examination, go for summaries. Make a synopsis and summary of everything. One cannot remember the entire syllabus and every line of a chapter, but with summaries, preparation will become easier. This is my personal recommendation as it has helped me a lot.”
PILLARS OF SUPPORT
Shivin expresses gratitude towards his friends and roommates who helped and supported him unconditionally throughout his journey into UPSC. They never let Shivin do any chores and did everything themselves so that he could study without any disturbances.
“I believe the strong support of your loved ones is very important in such a tough journey and I am glad I had the best people with me during that time. I would like to thank each one of them,” he expressed happily.
UPSC CSE 2021
Shivin cracked the UPSC CSE 2021 examination in his third attempt and bagged an All India Rank of 525. He wishes to get into the Indian Police Service and wants to learn the working of the system as much as he can, instead of implementing new ideas.
“I will try to eradicate the existing flaws in the system and would work to change the public’s negative perception about the police in terms of corruption and delay in justice. In my jurisdiction, every FIR will be registered, irrespective of anything. I will bring people and police closer through my efforts,” he said.
Shivin plans to give the Mains examination again this year and Indian Masterminds wishes him the best of luck.
