Anuj Agnihotri, who recently secured the top position in the Civil Services Examination, was taken aback upon seeing his results. Rather than an immediate expression of joy, he took a moment to comprehend the achievement, saying, “It takes time to process.” Anuj, along with his parents, sat on the floor to fully absorb the significance of the moment. He expressed gratitude, attributing his success to a mix of preparation and fortune, emphasizing that while effort is crucial, factors like timing and support also play an essential role.

Transition from Medicine to Civil Services

Originating from Rawat Bata, a small town near Kota, Anuj graduated in medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Jodhpur. During his internship, he began his preparation for the civil service examinations, attempting to balance clinical responsibilities with his studies. He acknowledged the support from seniors and colleagues, which allowed him to create time for his preparations. Although his first attempt was not successful, it helped him strengthen his foundational knowledge. Anuj later re-entered the preparation phase and achieved success on his third attempt.

Study Routine and Personal Sacrifices

Anuj described his study regimen, which included waking up at 6 AM and going to bed by 11 PM, with around eight to nine hours dedicated to study during focused periods. He emphasized the importance of consistency over strict time management, stating that some days would be more productive than others. He also acknowledged the sacrifices required during preparation, which led him to spend less time with friends and with social media during intense study periods. Post his success, he found a better balance that permitted a social life alongside his studies.

Understanding and Overcoming Setbacks

Anuj openly discussed the challenges he faced, including being placed on a reserve list during previous results. He described the experience of seeing his name absent from the list as painful but viewed it as part of the journey. “Every attempt strengthened my resolve,” he noted, indicating that had he not succeeded this time, he would have resumed preparations immediately. He encouraged aspiring candidates to maintain a clear understanding of their motivations and approach UPSC preparation as a long-term endeavor.

Personal Interests and Celebrating Success

Anuj shared his personal interests during the interview, including a fondness for aloo chaat, humorously noting it as his preferred way to celebrate achievement. To manage stress, he often listens to music and participates in physical activities, valuing conversations to gain new insights. He expressed admiration for MS Dhoni, highlighting the importance of composure and effective decision-making in both sports and administration.

Future Aspirations and Encouragement for Others

Achieving the top rank in the UPSC examinations signifies the beginning of greater ambitions for Anuj. He intends to leverage his civil service role to implement positive changes, particularly in public health and youth engagement. He believes that civil service provides a platform for those wishing to contribute to society. Addressing fellow aspirants facing disappointment, he emphasized that failure is not the end, and learning from setbacks is a crucial part of personal growth. His laughter about aloo chaat reflected a sense of joy in the journey, reiterating that success is attainable through perseverance and hope.

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