Koya Sree Harsha’s journey to becoming the 2017 UPSC topper is a remarkable tale of determination and smart strategy. Securing the 6th rank in his very first attempt, Harsha’s story is an inspiration for many aspiring civil servants. His background as an engineering graduate from NIT Jamshedpur laid the foundation for his disciplined approach to the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE).
After completing his engineering degree, Harsha gained practical experience by working in a corporate environment for a few years. However, his aspirations reached beyond the confines of engineering, leading him to contemplate a career in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). This decision prompted him to leave his job and move to Delhi, the hub of UPSC preparation.
Harsha’s time in Delhi, however, was short-lived, attributed to his swift and successful journey through the UPSC examination. With only a year of dedicated preparation, he not only cracked the exam in his first attempt but also secured an impressive rank. In an interview with Delhi Knowledge Track, Harsha elaborated on various facets of his UPSC journey.
One key piece of advice Harsha offers to UPSC aspirants concerns the selection and use of study materials. He stresses the importance of not getting overwhelmed by the plethora of books available. According to Harsha, most candidates access similar resources, but it’s the methodology of studying that sets toppers apart from the rest. He advocates for limiting the number of books and revisiting the same material multiple times to deepen understanding.
Harsha suggests a unique approach to studying: during the first read, treat each book like a storybook, giving yourself a broad overview of the content. This initial reading helps in identifying the essential parts of the material. In subsequent readings, focus on these key areas, either by marking important points or by consolidating them into concise notes.
Harsha’s approach to the UPSC exam preparation blends simplicity with efficiency, emphasizing the value of understanding over rote memorization. His success story is a testament to the fact that with the right strategy, discipline, and focus, anyone can excel in the UPSC exam, regardless of their professional background. Koya Sree Harsha’s transition from an engineer to an IAS officer, securing a top rank in his first attempt, stands as a beacon of inspiration for UPSC aspirants nationwide.
