UPSC Preparation Journey of Dongre Archit Parag AIR 3 2024

In a remarkable feat that has inspired thousands of UPSC aspirants across the country, Archit Parag Dongre secured All India Rank (AIR) 3 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2024. Hailing from Pune, Maharashtra, and an alumnus of Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Archit’s journey is a powerful example of how a clear strategy and determination can help crack one of India’s toughest exams.

Early Life and Academic Background

Born and raised in Pune, Archit Parag Dongre exhibited academic brilliance from an early age. After completing his schooling in Pune, he pursued a B.Tech in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from VIT Vellore. His academic performance was exceptional, but what stood out was his growing interest in public service, which would later become his true calling.

While studying Electronics Engineering from VIT Vellore, Archit began contemplating a career beyond the private sector. Inspired by the impact civil servants can make, he started laying the groundwork for his UPSC preparation while still in college. His dedication and vision ultimately led him to secure AIR 3 in UPSC CSE 2024.

The Spark to Prepare for UPSC

The turning point came during his final year at VIT. Despite promising career opportunities in the tech industry, Archit chose the path of civil services. His strong desire to contribute to the nation led him to start preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination with unwavering focus.

One of the key decisions for any aspirant is the choice of optional subject. Archit chose Philosophy as his optional subject, a move that surprised many due to his engineering background. However, his deep interest in philosophical reasoning and ethical dilemmas made Philosophy a strategic choice that helped him gain an edge.

Archit Parag Dongre’s UPSC Preparation Strategy

Cracking the UPSC CSE requires strategic planning, consistent effort, and smart work. Archit followed a meticulous strategy tailored to his strengths. Here is a breakdown of his UPSC preparation approach:

1. Understanding the UPSC Syllabus and Exam Pattern

He began with an in-depth analysis of the UPSC syllabus and previous year’s question papers. This helped him identify important topics and plan his preparation schedule effectively.

2. Strong NCERT Foundation

For all UPSC aspirants, NCERT books are crucial. Archit revised them multiple times to build a strong conceptual base.

3. Selective Reference Books

He used standard books for subjects like Indian Polity, Modern History, Economy, and Geography. Archit emphasized quality over quantity and focused on multiple revisions of selected resources.

4. Mastering Current Affairs

Current affairs form a significant part of all UPSC stages. Archit followed a national newspaper regularly and supplemented it with monthly magazines. His organized notes made revision easier before exams.

5. Philosophy as His Optional Subject

Despite being from a technical background, Archit excelled in Philosophy. He referred to texts like ‘A Critical History of Western Philosophy’ by Y. Masih and practiced answer writing rigorously. Philosophy also aided him in Ethics and Essay papers.

6. Mock Tests and Answer Writing

He joined a reputed test series and practiced answer writing regularly. Treating mock tests like actual exams helped him improve time management and accuracy.

Balancing Engineering and UPSC CSE

Candidates with an engineering background often feel unsure about transitioning to humanities-based subjects. Archit used his analytical thinking and structured approach from Electrical and Electronics Engineering to navigate the UPSC syllabus effectively.

His background in B.Tech in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from VIT Vellore helped him bring logic, structure, and critical analysis into subjects like Ethics, GS papers, and Essay writing.

UPSC Interview and Personality Test Experience

The UPSC Interview (Personality Test) is the final and crucial stage. Archit’s panel asked him about his educational background, optional subject choice, and current affairs. His calm and thoughtful answers impressed the board.

When asked why he aspired to join the Indian Police Service (IPS), Archit spoke passionately about grassroots law enforcement and social justice. However, with India Rank AIR 3, he may also choose to serve in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), depending on his final preference.

Tips for UPSC Aspirants by Archit Parag Dongre

Archit’s journey offers valuable insights for future UPSC aspirants:

• Be Consistent: Regular study matters more than long hours.

• Focus on Smart Work: Identify high-yield topics and revise them thoroughly.

• Take Care of Mental Health: Stay motivated and seek support from family and peers.

• Practice Answer Writing: The Mains exam demands articulation and structure.

• Believe in Your Goal: Persistence and self-confidence are key to success.

UPSC CSE 2024 Results and Achievements

When the UPSC CSE 2024 results were declared, a total of 1,009 candidates were recommended for various services. Among them, Dongre Archit Parag UPSC AIR 3 was one of the standout success stories.

His performance in all three stages — Prelims, Mains, and Interview — was outstanding. His story is not just an individual success but an inspiration for all UPSC aspirants across India.

IAS or IPS: Future Role in Public Service

With his secured AIR 3, Archit has the choice between the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Indian Police Service (IPS). Both roles offer significant opportunities to serve the nation and bring about change. Whichever path he chooses, he is set to contribute meaningfully to India’s governance and development.

Final Thoughts: An Inspiration to All UPSC Aspirants

Archit Parag Dongre’s journey from VIT Vellore to securing AIR 3 in UPSC CSE 2024 is a story of perseverance, smart preparation, and the will to serve the nation. His success serves as motivation for thousands preparing for the UPSC exam.

For those from technical backgrounds, Archit’s journey proves that your degree does not limit your potential. With the right mindset, preparation strategy, and consistent effort, cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination is within reach.

As more aspirants begin their journey toward the administrative service IAS Indian or Indian Police Service IPS, stories like Archit’s will continue to light the way forward.

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