The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the final results of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2024, revealing that Shakti Dubey topped the exam, with Harshita Goyal securing the second rank and Dongre Archit Parag coming in third. This year's results, released on April 22, 2025, showcase not just the academic prowess of these candidates but also their unique journeys and the diverse backgrounds from which they hail.
Shakti Dubey, a trailblazer from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, achieved the top rank on her very first attempt. Coming from a middle-class family, with her father serving in the police force and her mother as a homemaker, Shakti's story resonates with many aspiring civil servants. After completing her schooling, she moved to Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi, where she immersed herself in intellectual debates and diverse perspectives that helped shape her analytical mindset. Shakti's success is a testament to the idea that preparation for the UPSC is not solely about rigorous study but also about developing critical thinking skills.
Following closely is Harshita Goyal, who secured All India Rank 2. Born in Hisar, Haryana, and raised in Vadodara, Gujarat, Harshita's journey is marked by her transition from being a Chartered Accountant (CA) to pursuing a career in civil services. She graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from MS University of Baroda and opted for Political Science and International Relations as her subjects for the UPSC examination. Harshita's approach to preparation was unique; she utilized social media not as a distraction but as a tool for education, following informative pages that enriched her knowledge. Her story reflects the importance of self-awareness and adaptability in achieving success.
Dongre Archit Parag, who secured the third rank, has an inspiring narrative of resilience. Originally from Pune, Maharashtra, Archit was working in an IT firm when he decided to quit and focus entirely on UPSC preparation. This was not his first attempt; he had previously cleared the UPSC CSE in 2023 with a rank of 153. With a Bachelor of Technology degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from VIT Vellore, Archit chose Philosophy as his optional subject, which requires clarity of thought and deep reasoning. His determination to improve his rank showcases the spirit of perseverance that is crucial for aspiring civil servants.
In total, 1,009 candidates have qualified for various civil services through this examination, with 725 men and 284 women being recommended for appointment. The top five candidates comprised three women and two men, highlighting a significant representation of women in this competitive field. The results have sparked celebrations across the country, particularly in Haryana, where many candidates from the state have excelled.
Among the notable mentions from Haryana, Aditya Vikram Aggarwal secured the 9th rank, while Shivani Panchal from Panipat achieved the 53rd rank and is currently an under-trainee in the Haryana Civil Service (HCS). Harshita's success has not only made her a role model for many but has also brought attention to the growing number of successful candidates from the region.
Harshita Goyal's journey, in particular, stands out. She has shown that success can be achieved through clarity, self-awareness, and a commitment to personal growth. Her story resonates with many as she embodies the spirit of determination and innovation in her approach to UPSC preparation. She emphasized the importance of understanding what study methods work best for each individual, stating, "One should give dedicated, focused hours to study, maintain consistency, and believe in oneself." This advice is invaluable for future aspirants navigating the challenging landscape of civil services preparation.
Moreover, the UPSC examination is conducted in three stages: preliminary, main, and interview. The preliminary examination for 2024 was held on June 16, with a staggering 992,599 candidates applying, of which 583,213 appeared. The main examination took place in September 2024, and out of 14,627 candidates who qualified for this stage, 2,845 made it to the final interview. The results reflect the rigorous selection process that the UPSC employs to identify the best candidates for civil service roles in India.
As the country celebrates these achievements, the focus now turns to the allocation of services, which will depend on ranks, preferences, and category eligibility. The UPSC is expected to release detailed marks and cut-offs within the next few weeks. For now, the success of Shakti Dubey, Harshita Goyal, and Dongre Archit Parag serves as an inspiration to many, not just for their ranks but for their courage to pursue their dreams and make a difference in public service.
The UPSC Civil Services Examination continues to be a gateway for many young Indians aspiring to serve their country, and the stories of these top candidates remind us of the dedication, hard work, and strategic thinking required to succeed in one of the toughest exams in the country.
