Ishita Kishore Rank-1: UPSC Civil services 2022-23: IAS Topper

ABOUT ISHITA KISHORE :

Ishita Kishore secured the top position in the UPSC Civil Services Examination of 2022, clinching the All-India Rank 1 (AIR 1).
In her first two attempt backed in 2021 , she was not able to clear even preliminary stage of UPSC CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION
She holds a degree in political science from Delhi University and previously worked at Ernst & Young in the risk advisory field.
Her remarkable accomplishment serves as a testament to the growing performance of women in this esteemed examination.
Ishita's journey to success was defined by her unwavering commitment, steady effort, and determination, supported by a foundation in Economics (Hons.) from Shri Ram College of Commerce.
She dedicated 40-45 hours per week to her preparation, underscoring the significance of diligent work and personalized strategies.

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND :

After finishing her education at Air Force Bal Bharti School in Delhi, Ishita Kishore excelled as a student.
She displayed remarkable abilities by securing an outstanding 97.25% in her 12th-grade exams.
Throughout her academic journey, Ishita actively engaged in various extracurricular activities.
She took charge of Interact, a Rotary-sponsored group, and also participated in UN meetings during school events.
In college, she was involved in the Economic Society and Literary Society, and completed an internship with the NGO CRY.
During her leisure time, she enjoys playing squash and has a fondness for Madhubani painting.

FAMILY BACKGROUND :

Ishita Kishore, the UPSC topper, hails from a family of four, consisting of her father, mother, and older brother.
Her father serves as an Air Force officer, her mother is a teacher at a private school, and her brother is a practicing lawyer.
Ishita herself previously worked with the international organization Ernst and Young
She holds the distinction of being the youngest member of her family.

WHY CIVIL SERVICES :

She realized that her true passion lies in public service.
She aspire to make meaningful contributions to governance and serve the public.
Motivated by her family background and her experience at Ernst and Young, Ishita is driven to contribute to governance and advocate for women's empowerment.

STRUGGLES AND CHALLENGES :

Ishita faced hurdles on her path to UPSC success.
She achieved an impressive feat by passing the exam on her third try.
This marked her inaugural entry into the interview stage, a pivotal phase in the UPSC examination, following the prelims and mains.

Marks obtain

Sr No.	Subject	Marks
1)	ESSAY (PAPER-1)	137
2)	GENERAL STUDIES-I(PAPER-II)	121
3)	GENERAL STUDIES-II (PAPER-III)	130
4)	GENERAL STUDIES-III (PAPER-IV)	088
5)	GENERAL STUDIES-IV (PAPER-V)	112
6)	OPTIONAL-I (POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS) (PAPER-VI)	147
7)	OPTIONAL-II (POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS) (PAPER-VII)	166
8)	WRITTEN TOTAL	901
9)	PERSONALITY TEST	193
10)	FINAL TOTAL	1094

Ishita Kishore's remarkable achievement as the highest-ranking candidate in the UPSC CSE showcases her exceptional skills and unwavering commitment. Her determination to serve the nation through civil service reflects a profound sense of purpose and a keen aspiration to contribute to the progress and governance of the country.

ISHITA’s PREPARATION STRATEGY :

Ishita Kishore committed herself to her exam preparation with steadfastness and earnestness.
She adhered to a study routine encompassing 40-45 hours of weekly preparation.
Aspiring candidates would do well to heed Ishita's counsel, which underscores the significance of diligence, consistency, and self-discipline.
She underscores the value of candidates assessing and adjusting their approaches as they progress in their preparation.
Ishita's achievement can be attributed to her resolute pursuit of her objective, coupled with her capacity to invest the requisite effort and study time.
Additionally, her choice of political science and international relations as an optional subject demonstrates her comprehensive grasp of governance, diplomacy, and global affairs. This showcases her willingness to engage with intricate sociopolitical matters and make a meaningful contribution to the realm of public service.

FOR PRELIMS :

Delving into study resources from various outlets played a pivotal role in achieving success, as the skill of discerning pertinent material is of utmost importance.
This approach also aided in comprehending the examination structure and key areas of emphasis.
Repeatedly engaging with Previous Year Questions (PYQs) was instrumental for enhanced comprehension and retention.
Assessing mock tests alongside past year questions served as a gauge for question relevance.
They underscore the significance of directing attention towards scrutinizing past year questions.
Sorting questions by difficulty level and classifying one's mistakes proved highly advantageous.
Being self-aware played a critical role in self-evaluation and subsequent improvement.

FOR MAIN :

Initiated the preparation process by revisiting the NCERTs in basic to establish a robust foundation.
The pivotal step involves reviewing and responding to previous year questions.
Engaging in brainstorming sessions to enhance understanding, followed by peer comparisons, is equally crucial.
For those seeking a cost-effective testing method, downloading answers from previous year toppers, reproducing the same questions, and then comparing can be highly effective.
The fundamental principle remains to commence and conclude with previous year questions.
This method ensures focused efforts and streamlined content.
It is recommended to consult reputable government websites, as they offer easily accessible and informative data.

FOR INTERVIEW :

Consistent newspaper reading proved highly beneficial across all three stages, a practice upheld over time.
This habit also enhanced softer skills, particularly comprehension in CSAT.
Staying informed about significant events and subjects in the news contributed to improved articulation.
A valuable exercise included engaging in peer group simulations. Interview panels were formed to provide professional feedback.
The fundamental principle remains to commence and conclude with previous year questions.
Endeavour to partake in as many interviews as feasible.

ISHITA KISHORE UPSC 2022-23 Rank-1