A Daughter’s Dream Fulfilled: Madhumita’s Journey to the IAS, Inspired by Her Father’s Unfulfilled Aspirations

Madhumita's story is one of quiet determination, deeply intertwined with her family's hopes and dreams. Growing up in the small town of Samalkha in Panipat, Haryana, she always looked up to her father, an ex-serviceman in the Indian Air Force. In 1987, She had attempted the UPSC Civil Services Examination but couldn’t make it through. This dream of his, however, didn’t fade—it passed down to his daughter, who, years later, would strive to make it a reality.

From a young age, Madhumita showed promise in her academics, excelling in school with top marks. She secured 96% in her 10th-grade exams and continued her journey with a BBA degree, later pursuing a Master’s in Public Administration. Despite her strong educational background, the road to the Civil Services wasn’t easy for her. The first time she sat for the exam in 2017, she reached the Mains but fell short during the interview stage. The following year, in 2018, she couldn’t even make it past the Preliminary stage, a setback that would have made many lose hope.

But Madhumita’s resilience was her strength. Rather than letting these failures define her, she decided to change her approach. With the unwavering support of her parents, she moved to Delhi to prepare for her third attempt. Her father’s old photograph, a symbol of his unfulfilled aspiration, became her constant companion, stuck on her wardrobe, silently encouraging her through every study session. During this time, she distanced herself from social distractions, even choosing to miss family gatherings, such as a cousin’s wedding, to stay focused.

Her parents, especially her father, stood by her side against societal pressures that urged her to consider marriage after two failed attempts. They believed in her dream, knowing that she had the potential to succeed. Their faith gave her the courage to push through the criticism and keep her vision clear. Madhumita joined a test series in Delhi, understanding that these mock exams could simulate the real pressure of the UPSC and help her better navigate the challenge.

In 2019, Madhumita’s perseverance paid off when she secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 86, achieving her father’s dream and her own. The success was a testament to her hard work, but it was also a deeply emotional moment—a fulfillment of a dream that had begun decades earlier with her father’s own aspirations. She attributes her success to staying focused, using online resources wisely, and making time for relaxation amidst the intense preparation.

Her journey is a reminder that setbacks are not failures but stepping stones, and with the right support and determination, even the toughest dreams can come true. For Madhumita, the Civil Services wasn't just a career choice; it was a story of legacy, of a promise made to her father, and a journey that brought immense pride to her family and hometown.