IRS officer Purvi Nanda's triumph: UPSC success through self-study and unconventional grit

Cracking the Civil Services Examination, one of the toughest tests conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is a monumental achievement that requires dedicated study and strategic planning. 

While many UPSC aspirants opt for coaching, some, like IRS officer Purvi Nanda, successfully navigate the challenging exam through rigorous self-study.

According to a DNA report, a native of Udaipur, Purvi completed her schooling from St. Mary's School and graduated with an LLB from the National Law University in 2019. 

Inspired by her father Pitambar Nanda's aspiration for her to become an IAS officer, Purvi embarked on her UPSC journey. Although her IAS dream is yet to be realized, Purvi demonstrated her mettle by securing the 224th position in the UPSC 2020 exam through independent study.

Notably, Purvi deviated from the conventional path of enrolling in coaching classes and opted for an intensive self-study routine. Committed to her goal, she dedicated ten to eleven hours daily to her preparation, a regimen that included solving previous years' question papers—an effective method for understanding the exam format and building a strong knowledge base.

Purvi's determination was evident in her decision to limit phone and social media usage during this rigorous preparation phase. Her hard work paid off when she secured a position in the Income Tax Department, showcasing the success of her unique approach.

Beyond her professional achievements, Purvi is also an author, having penned a book titled "Behind the Scene: The Untold Stories of UPSC Aspirants." In this book, she shares her personal experience of passing the UPSC exam without external coaching, providing valuable insights into the challenges faced by aspirants.