Every year, lakhs of aspirants dream of cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination, but only a few make it. In 2021, Shruti Sharma, a determined young woman from Uttar Pradesh’s Bijnor, not only cleared the exam but also secured All India Rank 1 (AIR 1), creating history. Her journey of setbacks, resilience, and eventual triumph has now become an inspiration for millions across the country.
A Small-Town Girl with Big Dreams
Shruti Sharma completed her schooling at Sardar Patel Vidyalaya, New Delhi, before pursuing History (Honours) from St. Stephen’s College, DU, and later a master’s degree from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). Coming from a middle-class background, her focus was always clear — to serve the nation by joining the civil services.
Struggles on the UPSC Path
Determined to prepare for the UPSC exam, Shruti enrolled at the prestigious Residential Coaching Academy (RCA), Jamia Millia Islamia. Her first attempt ended in disappointment — she missed the interview call by just one mark. Instead of giving up, Shruti treated it as motivation. With renewed determination, she appeared again in 2021.
This time, her dedication paid off. Shruti not only cleared the exam but emerged as the topper of India. What made the year historic was that all top three ranks were secured by women — Shruti Sharma (AIR 1), Ankita Agarwal (AIR 2), and Gamini Singla (AIR 3).
Her Marks Reveal the Hard Work
Shruti’s marksheet recently went viral, showing her consistency across papers:
◆Essay (Paper I): 132 marks
◆GS-I: 135 | GS-II: 121 | GS-III: 139 | GS-IV: 112
◆Optional (History) Paper VI: 155 | Paper VII: 138
Her strong performance in optional History subjects and Essay set her apart from the rest.
Life After UPSC
Today, Shruti Sharma is serving as Joint Magistrate in Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, after working as Assistant Secretary in the Housing & Urban Affairs Department. Her journey reflects not just academic brilliance but also her perseverance and belief in self-potential.
Symbol of Women Empowerment
Shruti’s story is also symbolic of women empowerment in India. With all top three ranks secured by women in 2021, it became a landmark year in UPSC history. Shruti herself believes that consistent effort, patience, and confidence are the real keys to success.
Shruti Sharma’s journey proves that one setback cannot define your future. With determination, consistency, and faith in one’s abilities, even the toughest dreams can turn into reality.
