In the domain of civil service exams, where endurance and commitment are critical, Sameer Prakash Khode was a model of tenacity. The transformation of Sameer Khode from a corporate professional to an Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) officer is remarkable and inspiring. He achieved All India Rank (AIR) 42 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2023.
In an exclusive conversation with Indian Masterminds, Sameer shared his UPSC journey, which spanned over five attempts and more.
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Sameer Khode, hailing from Nagpur, Maharashtra, embarked on his academic journey with a degree in Chemical Engineering from Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT). His father is a retired bank employee, while his mother is a homemaker.
He further honed his skills by obtaining an MBA from IIM Lucknow, setting a strong foundation for his future endeavors.
TRANSITION TO CIVIL SERVICES
Following a successful stint in the corporate sector spanning seven years in management consulting, Sameer transitioned to the esteemed Indian Railways in the IRTS cadre after securing AIR-551 in UPSC CSE 2019 in his second attempt.
However, driven by a fervent desire to make a broader impact on society, he set his sights on the civil services, aspiring to become an IAS officer.
“Engineering was my initial choice to secure a stable career, as it appeared to be a rational choice while I was studying. Thereafter, I also did an MBA and got a corporate job. But I believe the civil service is a broader domain, allowing me to bring many positive changes in a particular geography, which was an added motive for me to join the service,” he told Indian Masterminds.
JOURNEY OF ATTEMPTS
Sameer’s journey towards UPSC success was not without its challenges. Despite early disappointments, he persevered with unyielding resolve.
This is his fifth attempt in general and third attempt with full preparation. He applied for UPSC for the first time in 2013 but did not appear. Next, he applied in 2019 and cracked the exam, becoming an IRTS officer. He gave his third attempt in 2020 but scored low in the interview.
He gave another half-hearted attempt in 2022 but could not even clear prelims. And finally, he gave his best attempt in 2023 and secured AIR-42, becoming the Maharashtra topper of the year.
PREPARATION STRATEGY
Sameer’s preparation strategy was characterized by diligence and focus. Adhering closely to the syllabus, he meticulously covered relevant topics while staying abreast of current affairs. He prepared for the civil services alongside his corporate job.
His commitment to his goal remained unwavering, fueled by the support of his family, particularly his brother, and close friend, Shubham Bhaisare, himself an IAS officer.
“Being an engineer and an MBA, I can even apply the concepts studied there on the field,” he shared.
BALANCING ACT
Navigating the rigorous demands of UPSC preparation alongside his responsibilities as a professional posed a formidable challenge for Sameer. However, his ability to strike a balance between work and study reflects his exceptional time management skills and determination to succeed against all odds.
“I spared my free time in the evening and on weekends when I studied for UPSC. Moreover, my brother guided me well. He was also preparing for UPSC till a few years ago and I took all his notes and prepared thoroughly from them. I took a leave before the Mains exam and prepared properly during that period,” shared Sameer.
CHOICE OF OPTIONAL SUBJECT
Opting for Political Science as his optional subject, Sameer drew inspiration from his brother’s choice and recognized its relevance to administrative roles.
He valued its alignment with ground realities and its potential to enhance his understanding of governance and public policy.
PLANS FOR FUTURE
Talking about his plans for the future as an IAS officer, Sameer shared, “Railways job has taught me the importance of being meticulous, hardworking, persistent, and result-oriented. I will aim to measure everything empirically on the field and be persistent in terms of effort. I would also like to digitize certain data sets and processes to bring efficiency in the department that I work in.”
MESSAGE FOR ASPIRANTS
His tip for the upcoming aspirants is, “Target your preparation in terms of what is being asked in the exam and what is happening around us. Be persistent in your efforts. There will be setbacks, highs and lows, but you should be up for the long run.”
