Topper’s Corner

SHAKTI DUBEY, AIR-1, UPSC CSE-2024

The Journey of a Small-Town Scholar to UPSC AIR 1

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2024 final result was declared on 22 April 2024, and Shakti Dubey emerged as the All India Rank 1 (AIR 1) holder. Her story is one of determination, academic brilliance, and an unwavering focus on public service. Let’s explore her profile in detail, from Biography to her UPSC preparation strategy, for all aspirants looking for inspiration.

Biography

Age & Birthplace

Date of Birth: 28 December 1996
Age: 28 years (as of April 2025)
Birthplace: Tagore Town, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
Home Address: Naini, Prayagraj – Opposite Gandhi Transport, Mama Bhanja Talab
Home State Claimed in UPSC: Uttar Pradesh

Family Background

Shakti hails from a middle-class family grounded in values and public service:

Father: Devendra Dubey, a Sub-Inspector in the Uttar Pradesh Police
Mother: Prema Dubey, a homemaker
Community: Unreserved
The family originally belongs to Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh.

Educational Qualifications

Shakti’s academic track record is stellar and consistent across all levels:

Schooling:

Class 10 – 10 CGPA, CBSE, St. Mary’s Convent, Prayagraj
Class 12 – 94.2%, CBSE, St. Mary’s Convent, Prayagraj

Graduation:

B.Sc. in Biochemistry, University of Allahabad – 86.5%, Gold Medalist

Post-Graduation:

M.Sc. in Biochemistry, Banaras Hindu University – 9.21 CGPA, Gold Medalist

Achievements:

National-level project recognition for work on Organic Farming and Rainwater Harvesting
Head of Debate and Elocution Committee in school
Coordinated an academic conference on India and its Neighbourhood Relations
Dissertation on si-RNA Nanoparticle Therapy for Cancer Treatment

Previous Work Experience

Shakti has not been employed in any government or private role prior to this success. She dedicated herself fully to UPSC preparation after her post-graduation.

UPSC Preparation Journey of Shakti Dubey

Number of Attempts

Total Attempts: 5
Appeared in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, and finally 2024
Shakti’s perseverance is noteworthy—AIR 1 came in her fifth attempt, a beacon of hope for repeat aspirants.