A 2020-batch Indian Forest Service Officer Arushi Mishra had a close encounter once with the dreaded hyenas during her training period. She dreaded the worst. However, she kept her cool and followed the protocol taught to her during the IFS training. The danger subsided. But, the fear of the wild beasts never left her. “The fear is a must. It keeps you alert”, she says.

Born in Prayagraj, Ms. Mishra has a B.Tech from IIT Roorkee. She obtained rank 16 in the UPPSC in 2019, she also received Indian Revenue Service (IRS) with the rank 229 and All India Rank 2 in the Indian Forest Service in the year 2018. She is currently posted as the Director and DFO, National Chambal Sanctuary, Agra.

In an exclusive video interview with Indian Masterminds, Ms. Mishra shared close encounters of the dangerous kind from her training days. She also revealed why despite fearing animals she chose to be an Indian Forest Service officer.

WHY FOREST SERVICE?

During the process of her journey, she came to know that the All India Service has certain advantages as they have more platforms where they can work more, therefore, she chose forest service as her career over UPPSC. 

Along with this, she always had a keen interest in forests and nature. Once she joined the academy, Ms. Mishra witnessed a different environment that made her realize she was on the right path.

TIPS & SYLLABUS

She started her UPSC preparation in 2014 to become an IAS officer but couldn’t clear the exam. During the process, she came across the forest service exam and started preparing for it. 

In the exclusive chat, she also shared the difference between the syllabus of the civil service exam and the forest service exam, along with the tips and tricks to crack prelims examination.  

To watch the full video interview, click on the link below: