In 2022, Ambika Raina got an impressive All India Rank of 164 in the Union Public Service Commission examination. Now serving as an officer in the Indian Audit and Accounts Service (IA&AS), her journey is a fascinating tale of bold decisions, relentless effort, and focus on a bigger purpose. She quit a high-paying job in Switzerland to pursue her dream of serving the nation.
DISCIPLINE AND DIVERSITY
Born and raised in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, Ambika’s childhood was shaped by the disciplined lifestyle of her father, a Major General in the Indian Army. Frequent relocations exposed her to diverse cultures and perspectives, which fuelled her curiosity and broadened her horizons. Her parents played a pivotal role, supporting her aspirations every step of the way.
Ambika’s academic journey began with a flair for learning. After completing her schooling in various cities, she pursued a degree in architecture from CEPT University, Ahmedabad. Known for her innovative approach and attention to detail, she quickly established herself as a top performer in her field.
THE SWISS ARCHITECTURE
After graduation, Ambika secured an internship in Zurich, Switzerland, at a prestigious architecture firm. The experience opened doors to lucrative job offers and a promising international career. However, while enjoying professional success abroad, she felt a pull toward a larger purpose—contributing to society through civil services.
Ambika left her comfortable corporate career in Switzerland and returned to India to prepare from scratch for the UPSC examination.
Her UPSC journey began with challenges. Ambika faced failures in her first two attempts, but rather than being discouraged, she treated them as opportunities to refine her strategy. She identified her weak areas, worked extensively on improving them, and embraced mock tests as a core component of her preparation.
THE WINNING STRATEGY
Ambika’s preparation was marked by methodical planning. She focused on understanding the syllabus, solving previous years’ question papers, and watching interviews of successful candidates. Her study materials were carefully selected, including trusted resources like Laxmikant for Political Science and Nitin Singhania for Art and Culture.
She also prioritised answer-writing practice, which helped her develop clarity and precision in her responses. Ambika emphasised the importance of filtering information and leveraging the internet’s resources without getting overwhelmed.
THE SWEET TASTE OF SUCCESS
In her third attempt, Ambika’s hard work paid off when she secured AIR 164 and a coveted position in the IA&AS. Her success was a result of not just her study techniques but also her mental preparation to face the unpredictable nature of the exam.
Ambika is now a role model for countless UPSC aspirants. Through her active presence on social media, she shares insights into her journey and preparation tips, inspiring others to pursue their dreams with confidence and focus.
Currently serving as an IA&AS officer, Ambika audits and monitors financial accounts for the government, ensuring transparency and accountability in public expenditure. Her dedication to excellence in her role continues to reflect her passion for making a meaningful difference.
Ambika Raina’s story underscores the power of ambition and the courage to follow one’s calling. For anyone aspiring to crack the UPSC or take a leap of faith toward a dream, her story offers a powerful reminder: the path may be challenging, but the destination is worth every step.
