Alwar's Laghima Tiwari topped scintillating success with her 19th rank at the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2022. Just 23 years old at the time, she was the first member of her family to pursue a career in civil services and realized the dream of having kin among such a prestigious group bestowed upon her by her late grandmother.

Educational Background

Laghima studied at New Green Field School, Saket, New Delhi. She also earned a Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Communication Engineering degree from Delhi Technological University in 2021. She later devoted herself to UPSC CSE preparation.

Preparation Strategy

Demonstrating exemplary commitment, Laghima cleared the UPSC CSE on her very first attempt. She stressed the need for consistent daily study as opposed to sporadic intense study. Her preparation included an intensive study of basic texts and a close examination of comments made by past toppers. Significantly, she attained her success without classroom coaching, depending on self-study and practice tests instead.

Optional Subject

Having studied biology as a part of her school syllabus, Laghima opted for Anthropology as her optional subject. This was appropriate for her academic skills and enabled her to score high marks.

Interview Experience

In her UPSC interview, the panel asked her about the distinctive origin of her name, "Laghima." She was also asked about subjects such as Project Tiger and the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, as a result of her balanced preparation.

Family Background

Laghima's father Satish Chand is a dedicated school teacher in a government school in Delhi, and her mother Kanta Sharma is a homemaker. Her parents were tremendously proud of their daughter's success since they knew that she had achieved her grandfather's dream.

Advice to Aspirants

Laghima advises that the UPSC candidates must keep a routine of studies and emphasis should be placed on reading over the topics previously covered, particularly towards the examination dates. She emphasizes learning by self through mistakes done in mock tests and main preparation right from the day of prelims irrespective of confidence. According to her, one needs an equilibrium and stable strategy to crack the UPSC CSE.

Her life is an inspiration to all, as she shows determination, persistence, and independence in seeking success.