Ishita Kishore emerged as the shining star of the 2022 UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE), capturing the coveted top rank. Her journey to this remarkable achievement is not just a testament to her intellectual prowess, but also a story of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment. 

A proud alumna of Delhi University's esteemed institution, Shri Ram College of Commerce, Ishita Kishore graduated in 2017 with a major in economics. Her academic journey was marked by dedication and hard work, traits that would later become instrumental in her UPSC preparation. But her path to success was not without hurdles. Raised in a family with a strong military background, Ishita's father served as a Wing Commander in the Indian Air Force. Her mother, a dedicated private school teacher, instilled in her the values of diligence and perseverance.

The 2022 UPSC CSE witnessed the participation of a total of 933 qualified candidates, comprising 613 men and 320 women. Impressively, among the top 25 candidates, 14 were women, showcasing the increasing gender diversity in the realm of civil services. The UPSC CSE, a rigorous three-stage examination encompassing preliminary, main, and interview rounds, is the gateway to prestigious positions like IAS, IPS, and IFS.

Though Ishita Kishore clinched the pinnacle of success in her third attempt, her journey wasn't devoid of challenges. Her initial two attempts were marred by setbacks in the preliminary stage. However, her failures only fueled her determination to succeed. With each setback, she refined her approach, honed her skills, and meticulously prepared to overcome the hurdles that lay ahead.

Born in Begumpet, Hyderabad, Ishita's formative years were spent in the state of Bihar. Her family later moved to Delhi, where she pursued her academic aspirations. Shri Ram College of Commerce became the platform for her academic and personal growth. Her father's unswerving support, coupled with her mother's guidance, provided her with a strong foundation on which to build her dreams.

Ishita's UPSC preparation strategy was a manifestation of her strong work ethic and dedication. She diligently devoted eight to nine hours of her day to comprehensive study sessions. Her ascent to the summit of the UPSC CSE was not just a personal victory, but also a testament to her belief in the power of consistency and the fruits it bears.

However, Ishita Kishore's aspirations extended beyond personal triumph. With her sights set on joining the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), she aimed to leverage her position for women's empowerment. Her victory was not just for herself but also for the countless young women who look up to her as a role model.

For aspiring UPSC candidates, Ishita's journey provides invaluable lessons. She stressed that success in this formidable examination requires not only innate talent but also relentless effort. Drawing from her own experience, she advised candidates to put in a rigorous effort of 40 to 45 hours each week. The twin pillars of consistency and discipline, she believed, were the cornerstone of conquering the UPSC challenge. Additionally, she emphasized the need for periodic assessment and adaptation of study plans to ensure progress.

Conclusion
Ishita Kishore's triumphant journey from an Air Force officer's daughter to the pinnacle of the 2022 UPSC CSE serves as a beacon of inspiration. Her tale resounds with the virtues of dedication, perseverance, and the transformative power of unwavering commitment. Her legacy is not merely her top rank but the indomitable spirit she embodies, encouraging aspirants to chase their dreams with passion and determination.