What motivated you to pursue the Civil Services?

My motivation to pursue the Civil Services grew from a desire to contribute meaningfully to society through public institutions. While studying law, I became increasingly aware of how governance decisions shape people’s everyday lives, from access to justice and welfare schemes to the functioning of local administration.

I realised that while law provides the framework for rights and accountability, effective public administration is essential to translate these principles into reality on the ground. The Civil Services offers a unique platform where one can work at the intersection of policy formulation and implementation while directly engaging with communities. What appealed to me most was the opportunity to address complex social challenges in a practical way and contribute to inclusive development.

How did your time at NLSIU shape your interest in public service or governance?

My time at NLSIU played a significant role in shaping my interest in public service and governance. The academic environment at NLS encourages critical thinking, engagement with public issues, and an interdisciplinary understanding of law and society. Through classroom discussions, projects and debates with peers, I was able to examine governance challenges from multiple perspectives — legal, social, and institutional. This exposure helped me appreciate the role of institutions in safeguarding rights and promoting development.

Are there any experiences, courses, or mentors at NLSIU that influenced your journey?

Several experiences at NLS contributed to shaping my perspective on public service. Courses related to constitutional law, governance, and public policy helped me understand the institutional framework through which rights and welfare are delivered in a democracy.

I remember studying in classes such as Law Poverty and Development – how legal coding shapes the structure of society and if implemented well, it is transformative. Many electives such as Reading the Nation, courses on themes of law and social justice, climate change etc. further strengthened my interest. Therefore, I am grateful for those experiences at NLS in helping me choose this path.

How did you approach preparation for the UPSC examination, and what kept you motivated during the process?

My approach to UPSC preparation focussed on building conceptual clarity, maintaining consistency, and regularly evaluating my progress. I began by carefully understanding the syllabus and focussing on standard sources to build a strong foundation, which I began in my 5th year properly. Alongside reading, I made it a priority to practice answer writing regularly and stay updated with current affairs, since the examination requires both analytical thinking and the ability to express ideas clearly. Revision was an important component of my preparation strategy, as it helped consolidate information over time.

What kept me motivated during the process was the larger purpose behind the examination i.e., the opportunity to contribute to public service. At the same time, the support of family, mentors, and friends helped me remain resilient during challenging phases of preparation. Viewing the journey as a process of learning and personal growth also helped maintain perspective and sustain motivation.

What advice would you offer to current NLSIU students or alumni aspiring to appear for the Civil Services?

For NLS students or alumni aspiring to join the Civil Services, the key is to approach preparation with clarity, discipline, and patience. The analytical and reading skills developed at NLS are strong assets for the UPSC exam; the focus should be on understanding the syllabus well, building conceptual clarity, practicing answer writing, and regularly revising while staying engaged with current affairs.

Maintaining balance and mental well-being during the process is equally important. Ultimately, the goal should not only be to clear the examination but also to cultivate a genuine commitment to public service.

Looking ahead, what areas of public service are you most keen to contribute to?

Looking ahead, I am particularly interested in strengthening the connection between governance and citizens’ everyday experiences. Improving access to public services, ensuring effective implementation of welfare policies, and enhancing transparency in administration are areas where governance can significantly improve people’s quality of life.

I am especially keen on exploring how technology, including AI-driven tools, can make public systems more accessible and efficient, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Given my background in law, issues related to access to justice, regulatory frameworks, and institutional accountability are of special interest to me, especially in advancing accessibility for persons with disabilities.

I would also like to focus on initiatives that address the needs of elderly citizens and women by strengthening inclusive service delivery. Ultimately, my goal is to work with integrity and empathy while contributing to governance systems that are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to citizens’ needs.