Cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is a dream for many, but doing it while holding a demanding job is no small feat. IAS Srishti Dabas proved that with determination and effective strategies, anything is possible. This blog explores how she managed to prepare for the UPSC exam while working at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), offering valuable insights for aspirants facing similar challenges. Let’s explore How IAS Srishti Dabas Cracked UPSC Exam While Working at RBI.
The Journey of IAS Srishti Dabas
Srishti Dabas’s journey from being an RBI employee to an IAS officer is nothing short of inspiring. Her story reflects her dedication, time management skills, and ability to stay focused under pressure. Despite a full-time job at one of India’s most prestigious institutions, she secured a top rank in the UPSC exam.
Srishti Dabas IAS AIR-6 Bio / Wiki
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Srishti Dabas |
| Date of Birth / Age | October 13, 1998 / 26 years (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Delhi |
| Rank in UPSC CSE | 6th (Sixth) CSE 2023 |
| Attempt in UPSC CSE | 1st |
| Current Occupation | B Grade Officer at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) |
| Workplace | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| Family Background | Father- Assistant Sub Inspector, Delhi Police |
| Mother- Homemaker | |
| Education Qualifications | B.A. in Political Science, Indraprastha College, Delhi (2020) |
| M.A. in Political Science, IGNOU | |
| Optional Subject in UPSC CSE | Political Science & International Relations (PSIR) |
| Research Interest | Transgender community in Delhi |
| Additional Achievements | Gold Medal at university |
| Volunteer Work | Coordinated youth activities between India and Russia during college |
| Interests | Kathak dancing, Music, Painting |
Challenges Faced by Srishti Dabas
Balancing a full-time job with UPSC preparation is no easy task. Srishti faced several challenges:
- Time Constraints: Working hours at RBI left limited time for studying.
- Fatigue: Managing energy levels after work was a constant struggle.
- Limited Resources: She had to rely on smart strategies instead of attending full-time coaching.
- Consistency: Maintaining regular study habits despite job demands required discipline.
Strategies Adopted by Srishti Dabas
Here are the key strategies that helped Srishti Dabas succeed:
1. Effective Time Management
- Morning Study Sessions: Srishti utilized early mornings for studying core subjects.
- Weekend Revision: She dedicated weekends to revising and solving mock tests.
2. Setting Priorities
- She focused on high-yield topics from the UPSC syllabus.
- Srishti avoided distractions and prioritized her study schedule over social engagements.
3. Using Online Resources
- Leveraged platforms like Unacademy and YouTube for lectures and updates.
- Subscribed to online test series for regular practice.
4. Smart Note-Making
- Srishti prepared concise notes for quick revisions.
- She used mind maps and flowcharts to simplify complex topics.
5. Stress Management
- Practiced yoga and meditation to stay calm and focused.
- Took short breaks during study sessions to maintain productivity.
Study Schedule of Srishti Dabas
Here is a sample daily schedule that Srishti followed while preparing for the UPSC exam:
| Time | Activity |
| 5:30 AM – 7:30 AM | Study core subjects (e.g., Polity, History) |
| 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Work at RBI |
| 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Revise notes and solve practice questions |
| 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM | Watch online lectures or current affairs |
| 10:00 PM | Rest and sleep |
FAQs on “How IAS Srishti Dabas Cracked UPSC Exam While Working at RBI”
1. Is it possible to crack UPSC while working full-time?
Yes, it is possible. Srishti Dabas’s success proves that with proper planning, time management, and dedication, aspirants can achieve their dream.
2. How did Srishti manage time effectively?
Srishti followed a strict schedule, prioritized her tasks, and utilized weekends and holidays for extensive study sessions.
3. Did Srishti take any coaching for UPSC preparation?
She relied on online resources and self-study rather than attending full-time coaching.
4. What were Srishti’s key resources for preparation?
- NCERT textbooks for basics
- Standard reference books like Laxmikant for Polity and Spectrum for History
- Online lectures and test series
5. What can working professionals learn from Srishti’s journey?
Working professionals can learn the importance of discipline, setting priorities, and leveraging technology for UPSC preparation.
Key Takeaways from Srishti Dabas’s Journey
- Consistency is Key: Small, consistent efforts lead to significant results.
- Time is Precious: Use every spare moment wisely.
- Smart Work Over Hard Work: Focus on important topics and revise regularly.
- Stay Positive: Challenges will come, but staying motivated can make a big difference.
Conclusion
IAS Srishti Dabas’s journey from an RBI employee to a top-ranked UPSC officer serves as an inspiring example for aspirants facing the challenge of balancing work and exam preparation. Her success wasn’t just about hard work, but about smart work—leveraging time effectively, focusing on high-priority subjects, and maintaining consistency in her study routine. Srishti’s approach highlights the importance of discipline, perseverance, and strategic planning in achieving big goals. For working professionals who aspire to clear the UPSC exam, her story is a testament that with dedication, the right resources, and efficient time management, one can navigate through the complexities of both work and preparation. Every small step, no matter how challenging, brings you closer to your dream. Take inspiration from Srishti Dabas and embark on your own journey towards success today.
If you enjoyed this blog, don’t miss out on our previous one How to Revise the Entire UPSC Syllabus in 30 Days