Daijiworld Media Network - Rajasthan
Rajasthan, Mar 30: In a remarkable story of perseverance and smart preparation, Neelesh Goyal secured All India Rank 77 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, turning his dream of becoming an IAS officer into reality in just his second attempt.
Born in Karauli, a town known for its rich cultural heritage, Neelesh grew up in an environment that instilled discipline and resilience. He hails from a middle-class family, where his father, Ved Prakash Goyal, is a businessman, and his mother, Manju Goyal, is a homemaker. Their constant support and emphasis on hard work played a crucial role in shaping his journey.

Academically bright from the beginning, Neelesh scored 90.83% in Class 10 from Eshav Vidya Mandir in 2012 and 89.20% in Class 12 from MB Public School in 2014. He later pursued B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur, graduating in 2018 with a CGPA of 7.57.
Before entering the civil services journey, Neelesh worked as an engineer at Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited. Managing a demanding job alongside UPSC preparation was no easy task, but his strong time management skills helped him maintain consistency.
Neelesh cracked the UPSC CSE 2024 in his second attempt, choosing sociology as his optional subject. His preparation strategy focused on regular answer writing, consistent revision, and effectively integrating his professional knowledge with current affairs. He wrote the examination in English medium.
Beyond academics, Neelesh maintained a well-rounded personality. He received the Best Project Award at MNIT Jaipur for his work on solar air heater efficiency, played Kho Kho at the state level, and served as a student coordinator for the ISKON committee, showcasing leadership qualities. His interests in yoga, renewable energy, and diary writing helped him stay balanced during the rigorous preparation phase.
Neelesh Goyal’s journey from a BHEL engineer to securing AIR 77 stands as a strong inspiration for UPSC aspirants. His story highlights that with discipline, the right strategy, and unwavering belief, success in one of India’s toughest examinations is truly achievable.