Anjali Sondhiya: From a Farmer’s Daughter to IFS Topper With Grit and Self-Belief
In a small village in Madhya Pradesh, a young woman turned grief and struggle into fuel for her dreams and achieved something extraordinary. Anjali Sondhiya, from Chandarpura in Rajgarh district, secured All-India Rank 9 in the UPSC IFS (Indian Forest Service) Exam 2024, and she did it without any coaching. Her story is a powerful example of how determination, discipline, and self-study can help you reach great heights.
Humble Roots, Bigger Dreams
Anjali was born to a farmer family in Chandarpura. Her father, Suresh Sondhiya, worked hard on the land, and his dream was simple but meaningful. He wanted his daughter to become an officer. Tragically, he passed away after a prolonged illness, leaving behind both a grieving family and his hopes.
After her father’s death, Anjali’s mother became her biggest supporter, encouraging her to continue studying and keeping her father’s dream alive.
Turning Pain into Purpose
Despite the emotional turmoil, Anjali was determined. She decided to prepare for the IFS exam on her own, using online resources and free study materials. She never went to a coaching center. She believed in self-study, discipline, and consistent effort.
Her own words reflect her mindset: “Discipline and consistency are the keys to success.”
The Long Road: Attempts, Failure, and Final Victory
Anjali’s journey to success was not instant. She attempted the UPSC exam several times.
- In her first three tries, she faced failure, she could not clear the preliminary exam.
- But she did not quit. She re-evaluated her strategy, stayed focused, and kept studying.
- On her fourth attempt, she finally cracked the IFS exam in 2024. Her hard work paid off: she earned AIR 9 among over 143 successful candidates.
Her success was once announced with great pride in her family and community.
How She Prepared: Strategy That Worked
Anjali’s preparation strategy was rooted in simplicity and consistency:
- She used NCERT books for foundational understanding.
- Later, she studied standard textbooks and reference materials.
- She read newspapers and stayed updated with current affairs.
- For the exam, she focused on deep understanding, solving previous year papers, and regular mock tests.
- For her interview, she carried calm confidence, and her panel was impressed by her thoughtful answers.
More Than Just an IFS Officer
Anjali’s success is not just about clearing an exam; it means fulfilling her father’s dream and creating a powerful example for young people in rural India.
She also broke social barriers. At just 15, her family arranged her engagement, a common practice in her community. But she firmly resisted, choosing to focus on her studies instead.
What Her Success Means for Others
Anjali Sondhiya’s story carries several important lessons for aspirants, especially those from modest backgrounds:
- You don’t need coaching to succeed. Self-study, when done with discipline, works.
- Failure isn’t the end. Her first three attempts didn’t succeed, but she learned, grew, and came back stronger.
- Family support matters. Her mother’s encouragement kept her going when things were tough.
- Be true to your purpose. She studied not because it was easy, but because she wanted to serve and honor her father’s memory.
- Break societal norms. She challenged early engagement and traditions that limited her and won.
A Final Word of Inspiration
Anjali’s journey from a small village to a top rank in the UPSC IFS exam is more than a success story; it is a beacon of hope for every young aspirant who dreams big but comes from humble roots. Her achievement proves that with perseverance, dedication, and self-belief, anything is possible.
Her success sends a message: “No matter where you come from, if you are determined and disciplined, you can reach your goals and even inspire others to follow.”