Success Story: How a Bihar Girl Became an IAS Officer While Working a 9-Hour Private Job

New Delhi / February 12, 2026: Balancing a full-time job and preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Exam is often considered impossible—but Shweta Bharti from Bihar has shattered this notion. Despite working nine hours a day in a private company, Shweta cleared the UPSC exam on her first attempt and became an IAS officer, proving that determination and smart planning can make even the toughest dreams achievable.

Engineering Graduate with a Civil Services Dream
Shweta Bharti hails from Nalanda district, Bihar, and completed her schooling at Ishan International Public School, Patna. She later pursued Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering from Bhagalpur Engineering College. While her initial plan was to build a career in engineering, she also nurtured the dream of serving the nation through civil services.

Choosing Family Responsibility Without Abandoning the Dream
After graduation, Shweta faced a dilemma: should she focus on supporting her family or pursue her civil services dream? She chose both. Taking up a job at Wipro, she ensured her family responsibilities were met while continuing her preparation for the UPSC exam in her spare time.

Day Job by Day, UPSC Prep by Night
Shweta’s routine was grueling. She worked nine hours a day and, after returning home, dedicated her evenings and nights to UPSC preparation. Managing time between a full-time job and exam preparation was not easy, but Shweta’s resolve and persistence kept her going.

First-Attempt Success in UPSC CSE
Her hard work paid off. In the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2021, Shweta Bharti secured 356th rank, earning her place as an IAS officer. Today, she serves as Assistant Collector in Bhagalpur, Bihar, becoming an inspiration for thousands of aspirants from small towns and villages.

The Golden Rule Behind Her Success
Shweta credits a crucial strategy for her achievement: distance from social media. In an interview, she revealed that she stayed away from WhatsApp groups and social media, even temporarily refraining from smartphone usage. The time she saved was entirely devoted to her studies. Her journey exemplifies discipline, determination, and resilience, showing that even demanding jobs can coexist with UPSC preparation when approached strategically.

Shweta Bharti’s story is a beacon for young aspirants, demonstrating that with focus, smart planning, and perseverance, even the toughest goals are achievable.