Setbacks to Success: How Khushhali Solanki cracked UPSC with AIR 61

Khushali Solanki: The UPSC Civil Services Examination is considered one of the toughest exams in the world. Yet, every year, some candidates not only pass it but also inspire thousands with their remarkable journeys. Khushali Solanki is one of them, who secured All India Rank 61 in UPSC CSE 2023. However, her path to success was not just about books and mock tests—it was a journey filled with struggles, self-doubt, failures, and emotional highs and lows. 

From Childhood to UPSC: Khushali's Journey
Khushali Solanki was born and brought up in Bikaner, Rajasthan. She was meritorious in studies since childhood. She did BTech in Civil Engineering from NIT Surat, but soon she realized that her real interest was in serving the society through civil services. The decision to choose UPSC was not just a matter of prestige or power for her, but was motivated by the desire to make a meaningful contribution to the society. 

First Attempt: Facing Reality
Khushali's first attempt at UPSC was a great learning experience. She started preparing with full enthusiasm but soon realized the vastness of the syllabus and the unpredictable pattern of the exam. She worked hard, but could not pass the Mains exam. It was a big setback, but she considered it an opportunity to learn. 

Second Attempt: Dealing with Depression and Self-Doubt
In the second attempt, Khushali reached the interview stage, but missed the final selection. This experience was extremely emotionally difficult. She grappled with deep self-doubt and uncertainty.

Every failure was diminishing her confidence. Her biggest supporters during this difficult time were – her two pets (a dog and a cat). "Whenever I felt desperate, I would talk to them," she shared. "They never judged me, in their eyes I was always worthy and strong." Her pets became emotional support, which helped her to stand up again.

Third Attempt: Strategic Comeback and Success
In the third attempt, she changed her entire strategy. This time she focused on these 4 points.

• 1. Selected Accurate Study Material – Focused only on essential books and online resources.
• 2. Improved Answer Writing – More mock tests and answer writing practice.
• 3. Focused on Revision – Adopted smart revision instead of reading repeatedly.
• 4. Developed Mental Strength – Mentally strengthened herself with the help of meditation, journaling and her pets. 

Moment of Victory and the Way Forward
When the UPSC CSE 2023 results were announced, Khushali could not believe her eyes. Her family and friends jumped with joy, but the biggest moment for her came when she sat with her pets and whispered – "We did it." Khushali has been posted in West Bengal cadre and she is undergoing training.

Khushali Solanki's Message for UPSC Candidates
She learned 3 most important things from this UPSC journey:

• Failure does not define you – it teaches you.
• Mental strength is as important as physical hard work.
• Trust your support system – whether it is family, friends or your pets.

Khushali Solanki's success mantra has been "The path of UPSC is difficult, but if you persevere, you will definitely get success."

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