Daijiworld Media Network - Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh, Dec 19: The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the toughest competitive exams in India, where only a small fraction of aspirants succeed each year. But there are extraordinary individuals who not only clear it multiple times but do so with remarkable consistency and purpose. One such achiever is IFS officer Shreya Tyagi, who cracked the UPSC exam four times, eventually securing AIR 31—yet chose not to join the IAS or IPS, instead fulfilling her long-cherished dream of becoming a diplomat.

Shreya Tyagi hails from Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, and comes from a family that values education. Her father, Sudhir Kumar Tyagi, works at the State Bank of India. A bright student from childhood, Shreya scored 90 percent in high school and earned an ‘A’ grade in her intermediate examinations. She completed her graduation from Delhi University and later pursued post-graduation at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), where her inclination toward public service deepened.

Shreya’s UPSC journey reflects her resilience. In her first attempt in 2021, she secured the 4th rank in the reserve list and was selected for Commerce Services. She appeared again in 2022 and secured AIR 319, earning a place in the Indian Defence Accounts Service. Her third attempt in 2023 brought her AIR 123 and selection in the department of personnel & training. Although these achievements were commendable, Shreya continued to aim higher, driven by her desire to join the Indian Foreign Service. In her fourth attempt, she secured AIR 31, paving the way for her dream career and choosing IFS over the IAS, a decision that reflects her clarity of purpose and confidence in her aspirations.

During interviews, Shreya shared that maintaining a disciplined study routine of eight to nine hours helped her stay on track, but she also understood the importance of balance. She made time for hobbies such as cooking and travelling, which helped her manage stress and return to her books with a refreshed mind. She relied on mock tests to gauge her preparation and used them to identify areas where she needed improvement. This strategic approach allowed her to refine her knowledge and strengthen her weaknesses over time.

Shreya’s journey is an inspiring example for thousands of UPSC aspirants. She cleared the exam four times, earned different services with every attempt, and ultimately secured the one she always wanted. Her story proves that persistence, clarity, and unwavering dedication can turn any dream into reality.