Prajwal Chaurasia’s story is a testament to the power of dedication and strategic preparation in the face of challenging examinations like the UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE). Hailing from Kolkata, Prajwal’s journey to securing an outstanding All India Rank (AIR) of 694 in the UPSC CSE 2023 exemplifies not only his own grit but also the impactful role played by APTI PLUS Academy, best IAS coaching in Kolkata in his success.
Humble Beginnings and a Shift in Aspirations
Prajwal’s journey began in a nurturing family environment. He received his schooling at DAV Public School, Panna, and went on to pursue Electrical Engineering at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhopal. Engineering, a common career path for many IIT graduates, seemed like a natural progression. However, a seed of ambition for a different kind of service began to take root within Prajwal.
Motivation Ignited: A Desire to Serve the Nation
The desire to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development and the allure of a stable career path became Prajwal’s driving force. He credits his seniors for inspiring him to explore the possibilities of civil service. Unlike many aspirants who gravitate towards the coveted Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Prajwal’s heart was set on the UPSC. The prospect of environmental conservation and rural development resonated deeply with him.
Starting Early: Building a Strong Foundation
Prajwal emphasizes the importance of starting UPSC preparation early. He advises aspiring civil servants to begin during their undergraduate years. This allows for a more manageable approach, enabling them to effectively utilize their time and gradually build a strong foundation of knowledge in various subjects.
Initial Setbacks and the Importance of Adaptability
Prajwal’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. His initial attempts at the UPSC CSE were met with setbacks. However, this determined young man refused to be discouraged. He understood the need to adapt and improve his approach. Prajwal actively sought out civil service coaching and mentorship opportunities, demonstrating a commendable commitment to self-improvement.
Continuous Learning: Finding the Right Guidance
Prajwal’s pursuit of knowledge transcended traditional classroom learning. He recognized the value of online resources and mentorship programs, actively seeking guidance to strengthen his understanding of the complex UPSC syllabus. This highlights the evolving nature of UPSC preparation, where aspirants are no longer confined to geographical limitations in their quest for quality coaching.
Prajwal’s decision to join a civil service coaching institute in Kolkata, proved to be a pivotal moment in his UPSC journey. He participated in a mock interview practice program. This program replicates the actual UPSC interview environment, providing invaluable insights from former bureaucrats and UPSC board members. Prajwal highlights the immense value of this program, crediting it with significantly enhancing his interview skills and boosting his confidence for the crucial face-to-face round.
Also, he was blessed to have personalized mentorship, ensuring that each aspirant receives tailored guidance based on their strengths and weaknesses. This personalized approach is crucial for navigating the intricacies of the UPSC CSE and maximizing an aspirant’s potential.
The Detailed Application Form (DAF) and staying updated on state-based current affairs are often-overlooked aspects of the UPSC CSE. With the right resources and support, he stayed updated on relevant regional and national issues.
Learning from all his setbacks, he acquired knowledge about the tools and knowledge they need to confidently navigate each stage of the exam. He took a close look at his strengths and figured out his weak points in each attempt. Accordingly, he planned his preparation strategy, keeping in mind what exactly would work well for him.
He identified areas for improvement, particularly focusing on time management and answer writing techniques in the Mains exam. Prajwal enrolled in a specialized Mains Test Series, which provided him with the opportunity to practice writing under timed conditions and receive valuable feedback from experienced evaluators.
Focus on General Studies and Essay Writing
The UPSC CSE syllabus is vast, and General Studies (GS) papers form a significant portion of the exam. Prajwal, with the right guidance and commitment, prioritized strengthening his understanding of all four GS papers, encompassing subjects like Indian Polity, Economy, Society, and International Relations. He also honed his essay writing skills, recognizing the importance of clear and concise communication in expressing his knowledge and perspectives.
Constant Learning and Staying Updated
Staying abreast of current affairs is crucial for UPSC aspirants. Prajwal paid special attention to current affairs resources, including online lectures, curated news analysis, and daily answer writing practice on relevant topics. He actively utilized these resources to stay informed and develop a well-rounded understanding of contemporary issues.
Maintaining Motivation and Overcoming Self-Doubt
The UPSC CSE preparation journey can be long and arduous. There are moments of self-doubt and fatigue that can threaten to derail even the most dedicated aspirants. Prajwal acknowledges these challenges and emphasizes the importance of maintaining motivation. It includes his mentors and fellow aspirants, for helping him stay focused and motivated throughout his preparation.
A Moment of Triumph: Securing AIR 694
Prajwal’s unwavering dedication, combined with the strategic guidance and support provided, ultimately paid off. In the UPSC CSE 2023 results, he secured an outstanding All India Rank (AIR) of 694. This achievement not only fulfilled his dream of joining the civil services but also cemented his place among the nation’s top civil service aspirants.
Conclusion: A Beacon of Hope for Aspiring Civil Servants
Prajwal Chaurasia’s story is a beacon of hope for aspiring civil servants across India. It demonstrates the power of a well-defined goal, unwavering dedication, and the right guidance in achieving success in the highly competitive UPSC CSE. His journey highlights the importance of starting early, adapting to setbacks, and utilizing a comprehensive approach to preparation, encompassing not just subject knowledge but also interview skills and current affairs awareness. While Prajwal’s story prominently features APTI PLUS Academy’s role in his success, it ultimately serves as a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome challenges and achieve remarkable feats through dedication and strategic planning.
