SMRITI MISHRA UPSC 2022-23 Rank-4

Smriti Mishra secured the 4th rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2022. She hails from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, and cleared the exam in her third attempt. Her journey to success was not straightforward, as she faced setbacks in her first two attempts, including failing the CSAT in 2021. Smriti’s determination to join the civil services was deeply inspired by her father’s commitment to public service as a CO in Bareilly. She nurtured her academic excellence throughout her schooling and pursued a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) from Miranda House, Delhi University. Her optional subject was Zoology, aligning with her background in science.

Despite challenges, Smriti remained steadfast in her goal of joining the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). Her focus areas include financial independence for women, improving urban governance, and leveraging technology for better public services.

Demonstrating a strong academic inclination, Smriti consistently excelled in her studies from school to college.

Along this educational journey, she cultivated a deep passion for public service, nurturing a desire to contribute positively to society.

Quick Information Table

• Smriti Mishra is an alumna of the esteemed Miranda House College within the University of Delhi. She pursued her undergraduate studies in B.Sc at Miranda House, University of Delhi. Her educational foundation in science and her interest in Zoology helped her choose Zoology as her optional subject for the UPSC Mains.
• Her early education took place in Agra at St. Clair’s Higher Secondary School where she demonstrated academic excellence, scoring 96.6% in her Class 12 board exams.
• Smriti Mishra's achievements not only bring honour to her alma maters but also serve as an inspiration to numerous young individuals, particularly girls, who aspire to enter the civil service in India.

• Her father, Rajkumar Mishra , presently serves as the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), CO-Second, in Bareilly.
• Her mother, Anita is a Homemaker
• Her elder brother, Lokesh Mishra, practices law in the Supreme Court of India.

• Smriti's decision to join the civil services was greatly influenced by her father's work in the police force and her exposure to public service from a young age. Witnessing his dedication to maintaining law and order and making a difference in people’s lives inspired Smriti to pursue a career where she could contribute to societal welfare on a large scale. She believes the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) offers the opportunity to create real change, especially in areas such as women's financial independence, combating corruption, and strengthening urban governance. Smriti envisions using the IAS platform to focus on technology-driven public services and empowering underprivileged sections of society.
• Smriti Mishra's drive to enter civil services is rooted in her strong aspiration to bring about a positive change in society.

Marks Obtained (Mains)

• Smriti Mishra's journey to clinching the 4th position in the UPSC was marked by considerable challenges and hurdles.
• She failed to clear even the preliminary stage of the exam in her first two attempts, with her second attempt being hindered by her inability to clear the CSAT paper.
• However, she did not let these failures deter her. Instead, she took these setbacks as learning experiences, refined her strategy, and worked even harder to clear the exam on her third attempt.
• Smriti also faced the pressures of high expectations from her family and society, but she remained focused and determined throughout her preparation.
• She navigated a fiercely competitive atmosphere, contending with a multitude of aspirants vying for a limited number of positions.
• Smriti disclosed that she distanced herself from social media for three years during her preparation for this esteemed examination. Additionally, she devoted countless hours to her studies, often forgoing leisure and personal time.
• While many aspiring candidates may feel disheartened after facing initial setbacks, Smriti demonstrated that unwavering focus and persistence can lead to the realization of one's goals.
• This determination not only enabled her to successfully pass the exam on her third attempt but also secure an outstanding rank.