The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) released the final results of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2024 on April 22, 2025, revealing a total of 1,009 successful candidates. Among them, Shakti Dubey from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has secured the prestigious All India Rank 1 (AIR 1), marking a significant milestone in her journey to become a civil servant.
Shakti Dubey's ascent to the top of the UPSC CSE is a remarkable tale of determination, strategic planning, and a commitment to public service. Her educational background, which combines science and social sciences, along with her teaching experience, has made her an inspiring figure for countless aspirants across the country.
Born and raised in Prayagraj, a city renowned for its academic legacy, Shakti was immersed in an environment that fostered a love for education. Known as the "Literary Capital of Uttar Pradesh" and the "Land of Confluence" due to the merging of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, Prayagraj played a pivotal role in shaping her disciplined approach to learning. Although the names of her schools remain undisclosed, the competitive atmosphere of the city significantly influenced her academic journey.
Shakti completed her schooling in Prayagraj before enrolling at the University of Allahabad, where she pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry. The university, recognized for its academic excellence, provided her with a strong foundation in scientific methods and critical thinking. Following her undergraduate studies, she continued her education at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi, where she earned a Master of Science in Biochemistry. Her time at BHU not only deepened her understanding of science but also sparked her interest in governance and public administration.
After completing her postgraduate studies in 2018, Shakti briefly worked as a teacher, although specific details about her teaching assignments are not publicly documented. This experience highlighted her passion for sharing knowledge and helped her develop essential skills such as communication, leadership, and mentorship—qualities that are vital for a successful civil servant.
In 2018, Shakti made the pivotal decision to prepare for the UPSC CSE, choosing Political Science and International Relations as her optional subject. Her approach was systematic, reflecting her academic training and clarity of purpose. Shakti's preparation journey spanned seven years, underscoring her perseverance and belief in long-term goals.
The UPSC CSE is conducted in three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and the Personality Test. The Preliminary exam took place on June 16, 2024, followed by the Mains from September 20 to September 29, 2024. The Personality Test phase occurred from January 7 to April 17, 2025. Throughout these stages, Shakti's strong analytical abilities, shaped by her background in Biochemistry, supported her performance across subjects.
Shakti's confident and composed performance during the Personality Test left a lasting impression on the examiners, ultimately securing her the top rank. Her success story serves as a powerful narrative of transformation—from a student in a small town to India’s top civil services aspirant. Her academic path through Allahabad University and BHU, coupled with her strategic choice of optional subject, underscores the importance of education and purpose-driven effort.
Shakti Dubey’s achievement is not just a personal milestone; it sets an inspiring example for aspirants nationwide, particularly those from smaller towns. With her eyes now set on serving the nation through the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), she stands as a role model for resilience, discipline, and visionary determination.
In addition to Shakti's remarkable achievement, the UPSC CSE 2024 results also highlighted the diversity among the successful candidates. The selection process included candidates from various backgrounds, with 335 from the General category, 109 from the Economically Weaker Section (EWS), 318 from the Other Backward Class (OBC), 160 from the Scheduled Caste (SC), and 87 from the Scheduled Tribe (ST). Furthermore, 45 candidates were selected from the Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) category, showcasing the inclusivity of the recruitment process.
Shakti's father, Devendra Kumar Dubey, who works in the police force, expressed immense pride in her accomplishment, stating, "The only role I played in her studies was to make available anything and everything she needed. The rest was her hard work and the blessings of God." Her mother, a homemaker, also played a significant role in supporting Shakti throughout her journey.
As Shakti prepares to embark on her career in public service, she reflects on the experiences that shaped her vision for governance. Her exposure to policy debates and discussions during her time at BHU deeply influenced her understanding of public administration. Shakti believes that real reform begins with engaging communities and understanding their needs, rather than imposing changes from above without consultation.
In her own words, Shakti stated, "Even a patrol vehicle on campus made me feel safe after late classes. That sense of safety, brought by public service, left a deep impression on me." Her experiences have fueled her desire to serve the nation and address the challenges faced by citizens across India.
As the UPSC CSE 2024 results reverberate across the country, Shakti Dubey's journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring civil servants. Her story is a testament to the power of hard work, strategic preparation, and the unwavering belief in one’s dreams. With her dedication to public service and commitment to making a difference, Shakti is poised to leave a lasting impact on the nation.
