Meet the IAS officer from… who left a lucrative career to ace the UPSC test

IAS officer Priyamvada Ashok Mhaddalkar from Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, triumphed in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2023, earning an all-India rank of 13 in an incredible story of tenacity and willpower.

Even at thirty-one, Priyamvada had a difficult time getting where she is now. She entered the field of investment banking after graduating with a B.Tech in electronics engineering and an MBA from IIM Bangalore, where she also gained six years of invaluable experience. But fate had other ideas for her.

Priyamvada made a brave decision to leave her corporate career in July 2020 in order to pursue her goal of becoming an IAS officer. Unafraid of difficulties, she chose self-study and online education, devoting herself to the demanding UPSC preparation.

Priyamvada, looking back on her experience, recognized the challenges of going from a fast-paced work setting to extended periods of concentrated study. She had previously said, “When suddenly you have to sit for three hours while giving an exam, writing with a pen and paper, it becomes very challenging.”

Notwithstanding these challenges, Priyamvada’s commitment won out. She also had to contend with juggling her rigorous preparation with her obligations to her family. But she overcame every obstacle with her family’s unwavering support.

Priyamvada’s father, a government employee, instilled in her a strong desire to give back to society. Her experience is proof positive that perseverance, hard effort, and a strong willpower can triumph over any challenge.

Priyamvada Aspiring people might find inspiration in Ashok Mhaddalkar’s story, which serves as a reminder that you are truly being sought after and that, with enough perseverance, aspirations can come true.