The prestigious UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is a coveted gateway for many aspiring civil servants in India. Cracking this rigorous exam requires not just intellectual prowess but also unwavering dedication and resilience. Ayan Jain, a 24-year-old from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, embodies these qualities perfectly. His journey to securing All India Rank-16 in his third attempt in 2023 is a testament to his hard work and unwavering focus.
Speaking with Indian Masterminds, Ayan Jain shared about his journey to UPSC CSE preparation.
WHY CSE?
Growing up in Delhi, Ayan’s formative years were steeped in a legacy of public service. His father, a retired IPS officer, and his brother, Arth Jain, an IAS officer of the 2021 batch, instilled in him a deep desire to contribute to society. Witnessing their dedication to serving the nation ignited a spark within Ayan, motivating him to pursue a similar path.
He completed his graduation in electrical engineering from IIT-Delhi in 2021. “I have seen the career of a civil servant, which I found quite rewarding and appealing. The chance to give back to society was appealing, especially since my college involvement in the National Service Scheme (NSS) further fueled my inspiration,” he told Indian Masterminds.
PREPARATION STRATEGY
The path to success was paved with meticulous planning and unwavering dedication. Ayan, recognizing his strength in mathematics, strategically chose it as his optional subject. His preparation involved meticulous note-taking, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the vast syllabus.
Multiple revisions solidified this knowledge, leaving no room for ambiguity. To identify and address his weak areas, he actively participated in mock tests, constantly honing his exam-taking skills.
OVERCOMING MENTAL STRESS
The journey, however, was not without its hurdles. The ever-mounting pressure of the exam often took its toll. To counter the stress, Ayan found solace in activities he enjoyed, like playing chess and listening to music. He also sought support from his friends, creating a network of positive reinforcement that helped him navigate the demanding preparation process.
“Preparing for this exam often entails facing heightened stress levels. It’s not always about conquering stress outright; sometimes, it’s simply about enduring it. Over time, this endurance becomes a habit, leading to increased mental strength,” Ayan shared.
INTERVIEW ROUND
One of the most crucial steps in the UPSC journey is the interview stage. Ayan described his interview as demanding, encompassing a wide range of topics, from in-depth discussions about his chosen subject, mathematics, to pressing issues like Delhi’s air pollution and the state of police reforms.
Finally securing AIR 16 in his third attempt brought immense relief and joy to Ayan. “I was relieved that I don’t have to sit for the exam again,” he added. The years of relentless pursuit culminated in achieving his dream.
MESSAGE FOR ASPIRANTS
Reflecting on this experience, he advises aspiring civil servants to have a thorough understanding of the exam pattern and cultivate a sense of optimism. He emphasizes the importance of developing mental resilience to tackle the inherent stress of the exam.
