Daijiworld Media Network - Bihar
Bihar, Aug 8: Determination, perseverance and the right direction can turn even the biggest dreams into reality. Bihar's Monika Srivastava has proved just that by clearing some of India's toughest competitive examinations. From becoming an IIT topper to excelling in the BPSC examination and cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination twice, her journey reached its pinnacle when she secured All India Rank (AIR) 16 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2025, earning a place in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
Monika, a native of Satyendra Nagar in Aurangabad district of Bihar, has brought pride to her district and the entire state with her outstanding achievement. Her success has sparked celebrations and a sense of pride across the region.
Her father, B K Srivastava, is an assistant engineer with the zilla parishad, while her mother, Bharti Srivastava, is a homemaker.
A bright student from an early age, Monika completed her schooling at Saraswati Shishu Mandir and DAV Public School. Her academic excellence continued as she emerged as the Bihar topper in the IIT entrance examination, showcasing her exceptional talent. She later graduated in Computer Science Engineering from IIT Guwahati.
After completing her studies, Monika worked with several prestigious global companies. However, she believed her purpose extended beyond a corporate career and wanted to contribute more meaningfully to society.
Driven by her desire to serve the nation, she resigned from her corporate job and began preparing for the civil services examinations. Her efforts paid off in 2022, when she secured sixth rank in the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) examination, earning a place in the state administrative service. That achievement strengthened her confidence and motivated her to pursue the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
Monika first cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2024, securing AIR 455, following which she joined training as an officer in the Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS). Despite that success, her ultimate goal remained becoming an IAS officer.
She continued her preparation with renewed determination and, in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2025, secured an impressive AIR 16, fulfilling her dream of joining the IAS.
Monika credits her parents and family for her success, saying they constantly encouraged her to dream big and strive for excellence.
Her inspiring journey has become a source of motivation for thousands of aspirants across the country.