Archit Parag Dongre, a civil services aspirant from Pune, has made waves by securing All India Rank (AIR) 3 in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2024. This remarkable achievement marks his second attempt after he had previously secured AIR 153 in the 2023 examination.
Dongre, who hails from Pune, had pursued his B.Tech in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore. Although he initially worked in an IT company for a year, he decided to quit his job to focus on his UPSC preparation. His decision to choose Philosophy as his optional subject paid off as he improved his rank dramatically in his second attempt.
Reflecting on his journey, Dongre expressed that his success was the result of persistent effort, self-belief, and the support of his family. He spent countless hours studying and honing his skills, balancing both theoretical knowledge and practical application. He also credited his coaching sessions and peer group support for guiding him through the complex preparation process.
UPSC CSE, regarded as one of the toughest examinations in India, tests candidates on a wide range of subjects, including general knowledge, current affairs, and an optional subject of the candidate’s choice. The exam sees participation from lakhs of aspirants every year, and the intense competition requires an unwavering commitment and dedication.
This year, a total of 1,009 candidates cleared the UPSC CSE, with Shakti Dubey securing the top rank and Harshita Goyal in second place. However, Dongre’s achievement is especially noteworthy as he is recognized as the highest-ranking candidate from Maharashtra in 2024.
Pune continues to be a leading hub for civil services aspirants, with numerous coaching institutes and libraries supporting thousands of students aiming for success in the UPSC exams. Archit’s story is a beacon of hope and motivation for future aspirants in Pune and beyond.
His journey serves as an inspiration, showcasing that with hard work, focus, and determination, any challenge can be overcome. Archit Parag Dongre’s success not only brings pride to his family and the city of Pune but also reinforces the importance of staying committed to one’s goals, no matter how daunting they may seem.
