New Delhi | April 22, 2025: In a moment of pride and celebration for the nation, Shakti Dubey from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has emerged as the All India Rank 1 holder in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2024, as per the final results declared by the Union Public Service Commission on Monday, April 22, 2025.
Her extraordinary journey—from a student of science to the pinnacle of India’s most prestigious competitive exam—has become a beacon of inspiration for millions of UPSC aspirants across the country.
Rooted in Legacy: Growing up in Prayagraj
Born and raised in the historic city of Prayagraj, known for its rich academic and cultural legacy, Shakti was exposed to an intellectually vibrant environment from a young age. Often dubbed the “Literary Capital of Uttar Pradesh” and home to the sacred Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj’s atmosphere of discipline and scholarly pursuit played a key role in shaping her personality.
Though her school names are not publicly available, her early education in the city fostered a deep respect for learning and laid the foundation for her success.
A Strong Academic Base: From Allahabad to Varanasi
Shakti began her higher education journey at the University of Allahabad, where she completed her B.Sc. in Biochemistry in 2016. Her undergraduate years honed her scientific temperament, analytical skills, and systematic approach—tools that later proved invaluable in navigating the rigorous UPSC exam pattern.
She then pursued her Master’s degree in Biochemistry from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, one of India’s most prestigious institutions. During her postgraduate studies, she became increasingly interested in public policy and governance, eventually choosing to walk the path of civil services.
Turning Point: Embracing the Civil Services Dream
Following the completion of her M.Sc., Shakti took up teaching briefly. While details of her teaching experience are scarce, it is clear that this period sharpened her communication and leadership skills—two critical traits for any aspiring civil servant.
In 2018, she took the decisive step of preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination. Her optional subject was Political Science and International Relations, a choice that reflected her growing interest in administration, diplomacy, and global affairs.
With a background rooted in science and a newfound passion for social sciences, Shakti brought a rare and balanced perspective to her preparation.
Seven Years of Grit and Grace
Shakti’s UPSC journey was not an overnight success. It was a seven-year-long pursuit, filled with introspection, learning, and immense perseverance. She appeared for the UPSC Preliminary Exam on June 16, 2024, followed by the Main Examination between September 20 and 29, and the Personality Test conducted between January 7 and April 17, 2025.
Her scientific training helped her master GS papers, while her deep understanding of political theories and international relations fortified her optional subject performance. However, it was during the Personality Test, known for evaluating mental alertness, leadership, and ethical integrity, where Shakti truly shone. Her calm demeanor, clarity of thought, and purpose-driven responses left a strong impression on the interview panel.
A Role Model for Millions
Shakti’s story is not just one of academic success but also of resilience, self-belief, and the courage to dream big. From a city celebrated for its intellectual roots to topping the most competitive exam in the country, her path reflects the immense potential of youth in small-town India.
Her journey holds valuable lessons: that preparation is a marathon, not a sprint, and that persistence often trumps shortcuts. Whether it’s her strategic choice of subjects or her disciplined approach, Shakti’s narrative offers a real, relatable, and motivational roadmap for future aspirants.
Beyond the Result: A Future in Public Service
With this milestone, Shakti Dubey is all set to begin her training for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS)—the most sought-after civil service in India. Her journey from the lecture halls of BHU to the administrative corridors of the nation promises to be one of impactful governance and people-centric leadership.
