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Explore the Success Story of IAS Saumya: Overcoming Deafness at 16 to Achieve AIR 9 in a Short Span of Four Months

Determination triumphs over adversity is exemplified by IAS topper Saumya's remarkable journey. Stricken with deafness at the age of 16, she triumphantly conquered the IAS exam in a mere 4 months, securing the ninth rank. Delve into her captivating account of success and motivation.

Discover IAS Saumya's Journey: Overcoming 16-Year-Old Hearing Loss to Achieve AIR 9 in Four Months
Discover IAS Saumya's Journey: Overcoming 16-Year-Old Hearing Loss to Achieve AIR 9 in Four Months

Explore the Success Story of IAS Saumya: Overcoming Deafness at 16 to Achieve AIR 9 in a Short Span of Four Months

In a remarkable display of determination and grit, Saumya Sharma, a native of Delhi, achieved an astonishing feat by clearing the Civil Services Examination (CSE) in just four months in 2017, securing a rank of 9.

Despite the short preparation time, Saumya did not rely on coaching institutions. Instead, she relied primarily on self-study and internet resources, with InsightsIAS being her main study material. She also made reading The Hindu and other reliable sources a core habit during her preparation.

Saumya's journey was not without challenges. During her Mains exam, she faced a viral fever that elevated her temperature to 103°F. Moreover, she nearly fainted during the GS2 paper, but she pushed through, demonstrating her indomitable spirit. To cope with the fever, her parents, who are medical professionals, administered saline to her thrice daily.

Saumya's life has been marked by overcoming adversity. In 11th grade, she started losing major hearing power and was using hearing aids by the age of 16. Despite this, she did not let her disability hinder her ambitions. In 2016, she penned a letter to the Delhi High Court requesting an extension of reservation in Judicial Services for students with hearing impairment.

Saumya completed her education in Delhi, including law from the National Law School, New Delhi. She chose Law as her optional subject for the UPSC examination, drawing on her strong legal foundation from law school.

In her blog, "Musings of a Curious Mind," Saumya shares poignant reflections on her journey. She expresses gratitude for her success and the emotional waves she experienced during her preparation. Interestingly, she wanted to avoid excuses by not letting sympathy lower expectations for herself and others.

Saumya's story is a powerful testament to dreams built on determination. It serves as an inspiration for many, demonstrating that with hard work and perseverance, one can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

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