Meet son of a tea seller who cracked UPSC without coaching – his story will inspire you

For many young Indians, cracking the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination remains the ultimate dream, a gateway to serving the nation at the highest levels. However, for those coming from humble backgrounds, the path is often riddled with challenges. One such remarkable story is that of Dev Dudeja, the son of a tea seller from Chandausi in Uttar Pradesh, who defied all odds to secure an impressive All-India Rank of 327 in the UPSC 2024.

Humble Beginnings, Big Aspirations

Dev hails from a modest family where financial limitations never dimmed the light of learning. His father, Indra Mohan, runs a small tea stall near SM College in Chandausi. Despite the economic strain, Indra Mohan ensured his son never missed a day of education. Dev’s mother, Chandraprabha, works as an assistant teacher at a government school in a nearby village, while his younger brother Saket is currently pursuing his studies.

Dev completed his schooling at RK School in Chandausi and later moved to Delhi for higher education. He earned both his undergraduate and postgraduate degrees from the prestigious Delhi University.

Triumph Without Traditional Coaching

Unlike many UPSC aspirants who enrol in costly physical coaching centres, Dev took the unconventional route of online preparation. He relied on digital resources and self-discipline to guide his journey despite facing setbacks.

Dev’s first two attempts at the UPSC exam ended in disappointment. However, his resolve remained firm. In his third attempt in 2024, he achieved a breakthrough, clinching an AIR 327 and earning applause from all quarters.

Dev

A Beacon of Hope

Dev Dudeja’s success has become a source of immense pride for his family, his town, and the entire state of Uttar Pradesh. His journey exemplifies how dreams, no matter how distant, can be realised through perseverance, discipline, and belief in oneself.

As he now prepares to take on responsibilities as a civil servant, Dev stands as an inspiration for countless others striving to script their own success stories—no matter where they come from.