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Watch Abhishek Vashishtha AIR 14, CSE 2024 | IAS Topper 2024 | IAS Toppers' Journey
Meet IAS Topper 2024 Abhishek Vashistha (AIR 14, UPSC CSE 2024) in this exclusive Kalam IAS interview. He shares his journey across six attempts, lessons from IRS and IPS, and practical UPSC preparation tips on PYQs, Mains strategy, PSIR optional, and answer writing practice. An inspiring session for every serious UPSC aspirant.
Abhishek Vashistha IAS Topper 2024 – AIR 14, UPSC Journey
Abhishek Vashistha, who secured All India Rank 14 in UPSC CSE 2024, is a true example of patience and perseverance. His journey from multiple attempts to finally achieving a top rank has become an inspiration for every UPSC aspirant. Before this achievement, Abhishek had already secured IRS in 2020 and IPS in 2022, but his determination to achieve IAS kept him going.
UPSC Journey and Struggles
Abhishek’s UPSC journey began in 2018. Despite initial setbacks, he remained consistent in his preparation. After clearing Prelims and securing services like IRS and IPS, he continued to push forward and in his sixth attempt, achieved AIR 14. His journey shows the power of resilience in the face of repeated challenges.
Challenges Across UPSC Stages
According to Abhishek, Prelims is the most unpredictable stage, with a wide syllabus and uncertain questions. Mains demands consolidation of vast subjects in a short span, along with intensive answer writing. The Interview (Personality Test), he says, is about confidence, balance, and handling pressure, making it equally challenging in its own way.
Preparation Strategy
Abhishek emphasizes the importance of analyzing Previous Year Questions (PYQs) to identify recurring themes and preparing short notes updated with current affairs. He practiced extensive answer writing and relied on evaluation from mentors and peers. His optional subject, Political Science and International Relations (PSIR), though vast, helped him in GS Paper 2, Ethics, Essay, and the Interview stage.
Advice for Aspirants
For aspirants, Abhishek’s advice is simple yet powerful:
Focus on Mains preparation from the beginning.
Stick to limited, concise resources and revise them multiple times.
Practice answer writing regularly and seek feedback.
Choose an optional subject based on interest and availability of guidance, not on scoring trends.
Inspiration for Future Aspirants
Abhishek describes his UPSC journey as “The Story of Perseverance.” His success highlights that strategy, consistency, support system, and patience matter far more than luck. His story inspires every aspirant to keep moving forward, even when faced with setbacks.