Neha Byadwal Quit Social Media to Become IAS at 24
Overcoming Distractions to Pursue a Dream
In today’s digital age, social media and mobile phones dominate daily life. However, excessive usage often disrupts focus and productivity. For IAS officer Neha Byadwal, this challenge became clear after she failed the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) on her first attempt. Realizing the impact of distractions, Neha took a bold step: she quit social media and significantly reduced her mobile use for three years. This decision marked the beginning of her determined journey toward cracking one of India’s toughest exams.
Inspired Beginnings and Early Struggles
Born in Jaipur, Rajasthan, and raised in Chhattisgarh, Neha was inspired by her father, a senior income tax officer, to serve the nation. Her childhood dream of becoming an IAS officer was tested when she failed her first three UPSC attempts. Despite these setbacks, Neha’s determination never wavered. She cleared multiple SSC exams during this period but declined job offers, keeping her focus solely on her IAS goal.
The Turning Point
Neha’s unwavering dedication bore fruit in 2021. On her fourth attempt, she secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 569 with a total score of 960 marks, achieving her goal at the young age of 24. Her journey wasn’t just about hard work—it was a testament to the power of sacrifice, discipline, and resilience.
A New Mission: Inspiring Others
Now an IAS officer, Neha is committed to motivating aspiring civil servants. She actively shares UPSC preparation tips with her 28,000 Instagram followers, offering guidance and encouragement. Her journey resonates with anyone striving for success, proving that with focus and dedication, obstacles can be overcome.
Lessons from Neha’s Journey
- Eliminate distractions: Quitting social media helped Neha concentrate fully on her goals.
- Stay resilient: Despite repeated failures, she didn’t give up.
- Focus on long-term goals: Turning down immediate job opportunities kept her on track.
Neha’s Message to Aspirants:
“Stay disciplined, make sacrifices, and never lose sight of your dreams. Success comes to those who persevere.”
