Ayodhya's Vidushi Singh secured 13th rank in UPSC on her first attempt without coaching, choosing IFS over IAS and IPS.
Vidushi Singh was born in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, but her family roots trace back to Ayodhya. Growing up in a modest household, she was driven by a strong determination to succeed. Supported by a family that prioritized education, she dedicated herself to hard work. At just 21, she achieved a remarkable milestone by passing the UPSC exam, making history in the process. Choosing the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) over the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and Indian Police Service (IPS), her journey serves as an inspiring example for young people everywhere.
Preparation with NCERT books
While many students depend on coaching to tackle the rigorous UPSC exam, Vidushi Singh defied this trend by opting for self-study. She began her preparation during her college years, using NCERT books as her foundation. By establishing a consistent study routine, she successfully navigated the challenges of the exam without any coaching support.
First UPSC attempt
Vidushi Singh achieved an impressive 13th rank in the UPSC exam on her very first attempt, selecting Economics as her optional subject due to her genuine interest in the field. This choice reflects her strategic approach to preparation, rooted in her personal passions and understanding. Following her outstanding performance, she had the option to join the IAS or IPS, but she chose the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) instead. In an interview, Vidushi shared that joining the IFS was a dream her grandparents held dear, as they aspired for their family to bring honour to the nation on the global stage. By choosing this path, she not only fulfilled their dream but also made them proud.
UPSC journey
Vidushi Singh designed her own study plan without relying on coaching, incorporating test series and mock tests to assess her progress. She focused on building a strong foundation using NCERT books and made it a habit to evaluate herself after each day of study. Vidushi firmly believes that self-study is more crucial than coaching for a demanding exam like the UPSC.
While coaching can provide guidance, she emphasizes that the real effort must come from the student. Her experience shows that with consistent and dedicated study, any student can successfully conquer even the most challenging exams.
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