Sometimes, you never know what your destiny holds. You begin by pursuing what you love, but fate often has its own plans. Over time, you may find yourself changing your path, but it’s your hard work and dedication that shape your journey. The story of Madhav Agarwal from Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh is a perfect example of this.
Initially set on becoming a Chartered Accountant, Madhav’s father had other aspirations for him – civil services. Taking his father’s wish to heart, Madhav redirected his focus toward the UPSC Civil Services Examination. His journey, however, wasn’t smooth. He faced multiple setbacks along the way. Yet, through persistence and relentless effort, Madhav achieved his dream of becoming an IAS officer with AIR 16 in UPSC CSE-2024 this year, proving that hard work can turn challenges into success.
Madhav’s journey reflects the power of determination, showing how every setback can ultimately lead to greater triumphs.
FATHER’S WISH FULFILLED
Madhav has truly fulfilled his father’s wish. While Madhav initially wanted to pursue a career in CA, his father hoped he would join the civil services.
His father says it was always his wish for his son to become an officer. Madhav had been excellent in his studies from the beginning, but he initially aimed to become a CA and had no intention of appearing for the UPSC exams. However, after completing his CA in 2019, he decided to give it a shot and attempted the exam.
THE UPSC STRUGGLE: JOURNEY FROM IPS TO IAS
Madhav began preparing for the UPSC in 2020 and made a total of five attempts. His optional subject was Commerce and Accountancy.
In his first attempt, he couldn’t clear even the prelims, but it served as a valuable learning experience. In his second attempt, during UPSC CSE 2021, he reached the mains but was unable to clear it.
In his third attempt, he advanced to the interview stage but did not make it to the final list. In his fourth attempt, during UPSC CSE 2023, Madhav once again reached the interview stage and successfully cracked the exam with an impressive All India Rank of 211, earning a place in the Indian Police Service (IPS). Although this was a significant milestone, Madhav’s deep aspiration to become an IAS officer pushed him to continue striving.
Despite the demanding schedule of his training in Hyderabad, he remained focused on his goal. He made the most of his limited free time, studying diligently for four to five hours each night, even while coping with the physical and mental fatigue of training.
Finally, in his fifth attempt at UPSC CSE 2024, Madhav achieved his dream by securing an outstanding All India Rank of 16, ensuring his place in the IAS.
HUMBLE BEGINNING
Madhav hails from a prominent business family in Gwalior. His father, Rakesh Agarwal, is a successful tea businessman, and his mother, Seema Agarwal, has always been a guiding force in his life. While Madhav’s family was involved in traditional business, he had a different passion – academics.
From a young age, Madhav showed exceptional academic brilliance. He was not only a top student but also displayed a deep sense of discipline and commitment to his studies.
Madhav completed his early schooling at Little Angels School in Gwalior, followed by Daly College in Indore, where he excelled academically. He then pursued a BBA in Mumbai and later completed his CA. During an internship at a large CA firm, Madhav realized that CA wasn’t enough for him and shifted his focus to studying for the CFA. He also completed his CS. Currently, he is undergoing IPS training in Hyderabad.
THE LONG RACE: PERSEVERANCE AND LEARNING FROM SETBACKS
Madhav’s journey in the UPSC CSE was not a quick sprint. As he aptly said in a past interview, “UPSC is not a 100-meter race, but a 5 km race.” This insight came from his understanding that the UPSC journey is long, grueling, and full of ups and downs. It’s about consistency, dedication, and a balanced approach to life and studies. Madhav believed that candidates should make their own notes, analyze their answers, and maintain a balanced routine to ensure mental well-being.
ARGUING FOR A SINGLE MARK
Despite the pressure, Madhav’s commitment to self-improvement never wavered. His mother, Seema Agarwal, remembers how even as a child, Madhav was determined in his pursuit of excellence. He would argue with teachers over a single mark and always strive for perfection. This perfectionist attitude, combined with his disciplined approach, served him well during his UPSC preparations.
After the results were announced, Madhav first called his mother, Seema, to share the good news with her. Madhav is the youngest of two brothers and one sister.
“I USED TO MEDITATE WHEN I WAS NERVOUS”: MADHAV
Madhav shared that after failing to clear the prelims in his first attempt and the mains in his second, he began to doubt his path. To manage stress and stay focused, he turned to meditation, which helped keep his mind calm and avoid depression.
Realizing the need for a better strategy, he researched the exam pattern, identified the right study material online, and began focused preparation.
THE VICTORY
Madhav attributes his success to the lessons he learned during his preparation. He kept himself updated with current affairs by reading newspapers regularly, which provided insights into critical issues that books couldn’t offer. Moreover, his father’s struggle with cancer and subsequent recovery became a source of inspiration for Madhav, motivating him to push through the tough times.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE: SERVING THE NATION
Madhav’s ultimate goal now is to serve the people, especially those who are deprived of their rights. His success is not just about personal glory, but about creating a meaningful impact on society. His story serves as an inspiration to countless students and aspirants, proving that with dedication, perseverance, and the right mindset, dreams can be realized – no matter how many attempts it takes.
Madhav’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not defined by a single achievement, but by the courage to keep going, even when the path is difficult. His journey from being a businessman’s son to an IAS officer is a beacon of hope for all those who dare to dream big.
