Not every path to success is paved with privilege. Hemant Pareek’s story exemplifies that. Growing up in rural Haryana, the son of a MNREGA worker and a pandit who performs rituals, Hemant’s life was shaped by hard work and a constant awareness of financial limitations. Additionally, he faced the challenge of being disabled, with one of his hands not functional. Yet, amidst these challenges, a fire burned bright within him – the fire of ambition, fueled by a thirst for knowledge and a dream of becoming a civil servant.
A DREAM IGNITED BY INJUSTICE
But what compelled him to pursue a career as a top bureaucrat and pass the UPSC Civil Services exam? Hemant recounts an event in which a local contractor denied his mother her rightful wages of ₹220. Despite his efforts to seek justice through government offices, Hemant encountered ridicule and rejection.
One sentence uttered by a contractor, ‘Tu kahin ka collector hai kya’? (Are you a district collector?), deeply impacted young Hemant. Hemant by then did not even know who a collector was. Hemant read and enquired about the office of IAS and decided to become a civil servant to prevent such injustices from recurring. This initial drive for justice for his parents evolved into a broader mission to advocate for the rights of the poor and vulnerable.
A DREAM TAKES ROOT
Hemant’s dedication to his studies was unwavering. Despite the perception that the civil services exam was reserved for those from elite backgrounds, Hemant refused to be discouraged. He drew strength from his mother, a pillar of support who instilled in him the values of honesty, perseverance, and compassion. These values, along with his invariant belief in himself, became the compass guiding him on his journey.
He knew that the road to civil services was difficult, but he was prepared. He sought guidance from mentors and seniors, meticulously planned his studies, and never allowed setbacks to break his spirit. His dedication was matched only by the unwavering support of his family – their belief in him as a constant source of strength.
Realising that he needed to crack the exam without the resources for formal coaching, Hemant’s passion and dedication attracted support from within his community, providing him with the financial means to relocate to Delhi, specifically Patel Nagar, a hub for aspiring civil servants.
DREAMS DO COME TRUE
Hemant wasn’t alone in his UPSC journey. At Rau’s IAS, he received invaluable mentorship from Puneet, a member of their academic team. Puneet recognized Hemant’s potential and provided him with free UPSC interview mentorship. One of Puneet’s most impactful statements became Hemant’s mantra: “Tu Kar Lega!” (You will do it!).
Together, they meticulously honed Hemant’s interview skills, transforming him into a confident and articulate candidate. This intensive preparation culminated in Hemant receiving commendation from the UPSC board members themselves, a testament to the effectiveness of their combined efforts.
Hemant’s years of hard work culminated in a moment of triumph in 2023. He cracked the prestigious UPSC exam, securing 884. The news sent ripples of joy through his village, where his achievement was celebrated as a victory for the entire community. Hemant’s story became an inspiration, proving that with determination and hard work, even the most ambitious dreams can be achieved.
As Hemant embarks on his new chapter, he carries the lessons learned from his upbringing close to his heart. He is committed to serving the nation with integrity, compassion, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those from marginalised communities.
RAU’S FREE RESOURCES FOR UPSC ASPIRANTS
Hemant’s success story also highlights the importance of freely available resources in the pursuit of education. Initiatives like Rau’s IAS’s Daily News Simplified (DNS) program, offered for free for the past 6 years, provide valuable current affairs information for UPSC aspirants. Additionally, websites like Compass.rauias.com offer comprehensive study materials, covering static knowledge, current affairs, and even past-year question papers – all for free.
These resources can be a game-changer for aspirants who might not have access to expensive coaching programs. Hemant’s journey is a shining example of how dedication and the smart use of free resources can empower anyone to chase their dreams.
