Divya Tanwar, a 2022-batch IAS officer, is an inspiring figure for many aspirants dreaming of cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination. Her journey from a small village in Haryana to serving the nation as an IAS officer is nothing short of remarkable. What makes Divya’s story even more special is her perseverance in overcoming personal and financial challenges to achieve her dreams—not once, but twice.
A VILLAGE DREAMER
Divya Tanwar was born in Nimbi, a village in the Mahendragarh district of Haryana. Her life took a challenging turn when she lost her father in 2011 at the tender age of 8. Her mother, Babita Tanwar, worked tirelessly as a laborer, sewing clothes and working on farms to support her three children. Despite these struggles, Babita encouraged her daughter to aim high, becoming Divya’s pillar of support.
Divya’s academic journey began in a government Hindi-medium school, where she excelled in her studies. She later moved to Navodaya Vidyalaya, known for nurturing bright young minds from rural areas. After completing her schooling, Divya pursued a Bachelor of Science degree at Government Women’s College, Mahendragarh.
BECOMING INDIA’S YOUNGEST IPS OFFICER
With her graduation complete, Divya decided to chase her childhood dream of serving the nation through the civil services. Preparing in a modest room with no access to expensive coaching, she relied on free online resources, test series, and sheer hard work.
In 2021, at just 21 years old, Divya appeared for the UPSC Civil Services Examination for the first time. Her grit paid off when she secured All India Rank 438, making her India’s youngest IPS officer. The achievement put her in the spotlight, but Divya wasn’t done yet.
THE BIGGER DREAM: JOINING THE IAS
Even as an IPS officer, Divya held on to her ultimate dream: becoming an IAS officer. Managing her responsibilities as an IPS officer, she continued to prepare for another attempt at the UPSC exam.
In 2022, Divya appeared again and achieved AIR 105, earning her place in the coveted Indian Administrative Service. At just 22, she had accomplished what many only dream of, proving that with focus and hard work, one can reach greater heights
BREAKING BARRIERS WITH HINDI MEDIUM
What sets Divya apart is her choice to appear for the UPSC exam in Hindi medium—a decision that inspires thousands of aspirants from rural and non-English backgrounds. Her success challenges the stereotype that only English-medium candidates excel in this examination.
With over 2,25,000 Instagram followers, Divya uses her platform to motivate other aspirants. From sharing study tips to speaking about her journey, she has become a source of inspiration for countless young minds
Divya’s rise from a small village in Haryana to the corridors of power as an IAS officer is a story of hope, hard work, and unshakable resolve. It reminds us that dreams are within reach, no matter where we start.
