IAS Success Story: Achieving success in the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam is a formidable task, given its challenging and extensive syllabus that demands a deep understanding of various subjects. The exam assesses analytical thinking, current affairs awareness, and effective writing skills, particularly in the subjective Mains exam. Garima Lohia, securing AIR 2 in the UPSC 2022, emerged as an exemplary achiever, highlighting her remarkable journey.
Originally from Bihar, born in Buxar, Garima hails from a business-oriented family. She pursued her accounting degree at Kirori Mal College, Delhi University, graduating in 2020. Facing the hurdles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Garima embraced self-study, utilizing online resources such as educational content on platforms like YouTube. Despite encountering a setback in her initial attempt in 2021 when she couldn’t clear the preliminary exam, Garima displayed unwavering determination. Undeterred, she increased her daily study hours to an impressive 12 hours.
Garima’s journey is marked by personal tragedy, having lost her father nine years ago. Despite facing such challenges, she opted for online preparation without enrolling in a coaching program. Her strategic approach involved intensive study sessions from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m., capitalizing on the quietude of the night to eliminate external distractions.
With diligence and resilience, Garima not only overcame past setbacks but also surpassed her own achievements, securing an impressive AIR 2 in her second attempt. Her chosen elective for the Civil Services Exam was commerce and accounting, reflecting her focused and disciplined study routine. “I studied by staying at home,” she emphasized, underscoring her commitment to success during a challenging period.
