Anu Kumari, who ranked 2nd in UPSC exam, has become an inspiration for a lot of women in India. She is 31, married and has a four-year-old child. She had a job that paid her well. But the young woman wanted to do more in life and aspired to work for women empowerment. She decided to appear for UPSC exams.
After working for nine years, Kumari gave up her job and did what she wanted to do the most. She decided to follow her dreams. Tried once but failed. Due to lack of preparation for the exams her first attempt didn’t go well. She tried again and cleared it with flying colours.
A Physics Honours graduate from Hindu College, Delhi University, and an MBA from IMT Nagpur, Anu Kumari, lives in Haryana with her family.
Now a topper, Kumari said to the Hindustan Times, “My job was good, but there was no internal satisfaction. It all became so mechanical that at one point I could not take it anymore. So I decided to quit and take up something through which I can contribute to society.”
Her first attempt was in 2016. as quoted by the Hindustan Times, she said, “Technically this was my second attempt, but I consider it as my first only because I could not prepare at all last time. I’m glad that I cleared it this time or next year would have been my last attempt due to the age limit,” she said.”
Kumari aims to work for the progress women in the country. As reported by the Hindustan Times, she said, “I come from Haryana, where we see regularly the regressive nature of society and increasing crimes against women. Since I have got this amazing opportunity now, I would like to make most of it and work on women’s empowerment.”
The UPSC shares her recipe for success. As quoted by the Hindustan Time, “I did not take any coaching. I studied myself and ensured I don’t lose focus.”