Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Aug 21: In 2010, S Divyadharshini from Chennai scripted history by securing the All-India Rank 1 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination at just 24 years of age. A law graduate from Dr Ambedkar Law University, she proved that determination and the right approach can turn dreams into reality.

Before her UPSC success, Divyadharshini briefly worked with the State Bank of India after clearing the clerical recruitment exam. However, her heart was always set on becoming an IAS officer — a personal decision she had vowed to pursue until her final attempt. Supported wholeheartedly by her parents, she dedicated herself to preparation with focus and discipline.

Though her first attempt ended in failure at the prelims stage, she bounced back stronger in her second attempt, choosing public administration and law as her optional subjects. Her consistent strategy, meticulous note-making, and regular newspaper reading helped her secure the top spot in the country.

For future aspirants, she emphasizes the importance of self-belief, hard work, and balance. “Adopt your own strategy and no one can be a better judge of yourself than you,” she says. Her success stands as a reminder that perseverance, dedication, and the right mindset are key to cracking one of the toughest exams in the world.