When one visualizes UPSC civil services, the images that one assumes coaching classes in metro towns, urban contestants who have received highly educated backgrounds, and the presence of elitist facilities. But sometimes, somebody breaks that order — not with shortcuts or elite privilege, but with work, discipline, and unyielding perseverance. Preeti, who is a young woman from Ankanahalli Village of Karnataka’s Mysuru district is one such example.
Preeti scored an All India Rank (AIR) 263 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024. Her journey is not only an inspiration to many but also a tale to be told.
Grounded in Rural Simplicity, Pushed by Big Dreams:
Born to Channabasappa, an agriculturist, and Netravathi, a homemaker, Preeti’s early life was as modest as it was inspiring. Growing up in the heart of Karnataka’s farming community, she witnessed firsthand the resilience of farmers and the quiet strength of rural women. Her father’s life in the fields and her mother’s selfless dedication to the family sown in her an early lesson — that dignity lies in honest effort, no matter the scale.
Education, being a ray of hope was always welcomed at home. She cleared her 10th standard with 90.88% from Government High School, Ankanahalli, setting the tone for the future to come. Her scholarly performance carried forward with 89.83% in 12th standard from Government PU College for Girls, Krishnarajanagar.
A Natural Link to Agriculture:
Preeti stuck to her roots by opting for Agriculture as her stream. She did her B.Sc. (Agriculture) from the prestigious University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, with a first-class CGPA of 8.46. It was not an academic choice; it was a conscious choice to study the very profession her family depended on.
Motivated by the urge to explore the economic dimensions of rural livelihoods, Preeti went on to do an M.Sc. (Agricultural Economics) at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi – one of India’s premier educational institutions. And here once more, she proved her mettle with a good CGPA of 8.79.
Beyond Academics: A Well-Rounded Personality
Preeti’s journey wasn’t limited to textbooks and classrooms. She actively took on leadership roles, becoming a Group Lead for the Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) Programme, a Chief Organiser for a food stall promoting millets at the Krishimela Fest, and leading a Menstrual Hygiene Awareness and Village Cleanliness Drive during an NSS camp.
She also excelled in the following:
- ICAR Junior Research Fellowship
- Merit Scholarship from the Government of Karnataka
- Appreciation Letter for her economic analysis of water requirements of crops using the FAO CROPWAT 8.0 model
Her hobbies, which included kitchen garden, practice of Surya Namaskar, and Pranayama, indicated her well-balanced approach towards life — one that was a synthesis of intellectual striving and well-being and service to mankind.
The UPSC Dream: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Preeti’s journey to the UPSC rank list was not an easy one. Like many aspirants, she too faced rejections, uncertainty and the challenging demands of the exam.
She appeared in the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examinations in 2020, 2022, and 2023. Though immediate success eluded her, each attempt became a lesson in fortitude. The long hours of study, the weight of expectations, and the sting of setbacks tested her patience in ways few experiences could. She gave mains in earlier attempts but the scores were not sufficient to attend interview.
In 2021, she also appeared for the prestigious Indian Economic Service (IES) Examination, a challenge she embraced with equal determination. Every exam, every result, and every moment of uncertainty refined her resilience, transforming her from a hopeful aspirant into a stronger, wiser individual. Far from discouraging her, these experiences deepened her resolve, teaching her that sometimes the journey itself prepares us for greater victories ahead.
She joined Mains Enrichment Programme in 2024 with La Excellence, which has changed the game for her. Her score in Mains improved and she clear Mains exam. During Interview Guidance,Dr. Rambabu sir helped her with DAF and identify some potential questions.And finally, in 2024, her perseverance paid off — securing AIR 263 in the UPSC CSE.
A Message for Aspirants:
Preeti’s story is particularly relevant to small-town and rural students. It’s proof that your financial background or geographical location can’t hold you back if your determination is strong enough.
When asked about her journey, Preeti replied:
“The journey wasn’t easy, and there were days of self-doubt. But I kept reminding myself why I started. Every failure was a lesson. If I can do it, then any girl from a small town can.”
Her advice to potential entrants is straightforward but perceptive:
Be regular. It is not 18 hours a day of study but be routine and disciplined.
Hug your roots. Utilize your background as a strength rather than a weakness.
Learn from failures. Every failed attempt is a secret lesson.
Strike a balance. Do not ignore your physical and mental well-being.
Conclusion: More Than a Success Story
Preeti’s success is greater than a ranking. It’s the proof of rural talent, determination, and the power of unpretentious resolve. In an age obsessed with shortcuts and entitlements, her story is a reminder that hard work, integrity, and humility can still land you in the most uppermost echelons of power.
Since she is to embark on her new role as a civil servant, Preeti carries along with her the dreams of her village, the pride of Karnataka, and hope for many aspiring individuals across India.
It is not just an individual success but a shared success for all rural students who hope beyond today.
To every UPSC aspirant reading this — remember, your background might shape your beginnings, but it never decides your final destination. Preeti’s story is living proof of that. Dream big, work harder, and most importantly, never give up.
You can see her association with La Excellence here:
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