Inspiring Journey of IAS Vishakha Yadav: Achieving Rank 6 in UPSC Without Coaching
Last Updated: September 27, 2025, 13:34 IST
Imagine leaving a high-paying job to pursue your dream of serving the nation. This is exactly what Vishakha Yadav did, and her remarkable story is capturing the attention of many. Recently, she had the honor of welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the Papumpare district in Arunachal Pradesh, a moment that has since gone viral on social media. Let’s take a closer look at her educational and professional journey. (Photo: @yadavVish21_IAS/X)
Vishakha Yadav, who hails from Delhi, is frequently mentioned in discussions about successful UPSC candidates. To fulfill her ambition of becoming an IAS officer, she made the bold decision to leave a well-paying position in the private sector. Currently, she serves as the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCE) for the Papumpare district. (Photo: @vishakhayadavias/Instagram)
What’s truly remarkable is that Vishakha achieved an impressive sixth rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination without any formal coaching. Her path was not without obstacles; she faced setbacks by failing the UPSC prelims twice before finally succeeding. Through sheer determination and self-study, she triumphed in her third attempt. (Photo: @vishakhayadavias/Instagram)
Originating from the Dwarka area of Delhi, Vishakha completed her schooling there. She attempted the UPSC CSE exam three times, experiencing disappointment in her first two attempts at the prelims stage. However, her relentless effort bore fruit in her third attempt, where she not only passed but also secured the sixth rank, ultimately achieving her goal of becoming an IAS officer. Her inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope for many aspiring UPSC candidates. (Photo: @vishakhayadavias/Instagram)
After finishing her schooling, Vishakha pursued a B.Tech degree from Delhi Technological University and subsequently worked at Cisco, earning a substantial salary. After spending two years in Bengaluru, she discovered her passion for public service and decided to prepare for the UPSC Civil Services exam, where she scored an impressive 1046 out of 2025. (Photo: @vishakhayadavias/Instagram)
Following her warm welcome to PM Modi in Arunachal Pradesh, Vishakha shared photos on X, expressing her gratitude: "Privileged with an opportunity to extend a warm welcome to The Hon’ble Prime Minister in PapumPare district on his visit to the State." (Photo: @yadavVish21_IAS/X)
In addition to her engineering degree, Vishakha has also earned a Master’s in Public Management (MPM), which further enhances her qualifications in governance and public policy. Her family background is equally inspiring; her father, Rajkumar Yadav, serves as an assistant sub-inspector in the police department, while her mother is a dedicated homemaker. (Photo: @yadavVish21_IAS/X)
What do you think about Vishakha's decision to leave a lucrative job for civil service? Is it a bold move or a risky gamble? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
