In a remarkable achievement, Delhi-based economist Aahana Srishti secured All India Rank 3 in the highly competitive Indian Economic Service (IES) Exam 2024 conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Her inspiring journey has captivated many, especially after she shared her experiences in a now-viral LinkedIn post.
The Power of a Backup Plan
Aahana’s journey to success wasn’t one of rigid expectations but rather of smart planning and perseverance. She initially approached the exam as a way to gauge her understanding of the subject. “Clearing the Indian Economic Service Examination (2024) with an All India Rank 3 was truly and wholly beyond my dreams,” she wrote in her post. What set her apart was her ability to maintain a balanced mindset—thanks to her Plan B.
“Having a Plan B is what made this exam less burdensome, and is something I suggest to everybody (It is completely on you to take it or leave it),” she stated. Unlike many aspirants who feel an immense weight of expectation, Aahana had a practical approach: if she didn’t clear the exam, she would attempt it again, and if needed, pursue a PhD in Economics. This mindset helped her tackle the exam with reduced anxiety and greater clarity.
Support, Determination, and Faith
Aahana attributes her success to the unwavering support of her mother, close friends, and what she calls ‘divine intervention’. She strongly believes in the phrase, “God helps those who help themselves.”
Her journey was not just about hard work but also about smart strategies and emotional resilience. With a background as a consultant at ICRIER (Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations), she had a deep understanding of economic policies and frameworks. Her educational journey includes a degree from Indraprastha College for Women and a Master’s in Economics from the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT).
A Peek Into the Interview and Training
Aahana shared glimpses of her UPSC interview day and the beginning of her journey as a probationary officer at the Arun Jaitley National Institute of Financial Management (AJNIFM). These moments, she says, mark the start of a new and challenging phase in her professional life.
Her success resonated with aspirants and professionals across social media, with an outpouring of admiration and praise. A user commented, “Your journey and insights are truly inspiring, especially the emphasis on having a Plan B, which can significantly reduce the pressure and anxiety associated with such competitive exams.”
An Inspiration for Future Aspirants
Aahana Srishti’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, strategic planning, and a well-thought-out backup plan. Her approach is a beacon of hope for aspirants preparing for competitive exams, reminding them that success is not just about working hard but also about working smart.
Her achievement not only adds another feather to India’s intellectual pool but also serves as a reminder that dreams, when pursued with dedication and a clear mindset, can become reality.
As she embarks on her journey as a civil servant, Aahana Srishti continues to inspire many, proving that with hard work, resilience, and faith, the sky is the limit.