IAS Saloni Verma is the ideal example of how self-belief and determination can help us achieve anything we want. Her extraordinary achievements have reverberated throughout the country and are now an inspiration to countless UPSC aspirants.
Hailing from Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, she was brought up in New Delhi. It was her dream to become an IAS officer from her school days. With an aim in life, she began her UPSC preparation soon after her graduation.
She was very clear that she wanted to serve the nation and worked hard to achieve her dreams. After conventional coaching classes, she opted for self-study. However, she had to face failure in her first attempt.
Despite being heartbroken, she continued to study and give more time to her preparation. With her perseverance and self-belief, she finally cracked the highly competitive Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) civil services exam without any coaching.
She secured an impressive All India Rank (AIR)-70 in her second attempt proving that coaching is not necessary to become an IAS officer. Her case proves that a focused goal in mind and the sheer will to achieve it is the key to success.
When asked about her preparation strategy, IAS Saloni advised aspirants to make sure that they first understand the syllabus and then begin the preparation. She also advised aspirants to study by strategizing, follow a strict schedule, not deviate from the end goal, ensure regular revisions, and practice writing.
Instead of regular coaching, aspirants should do independent research on relevant topics, she added. However, she also advised that aspirants who do not have proper guidance should go to coaching classes.