The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam is often regarded as one of the toughest competitive exams in India. Each year, thousands of aspirants spend months and years preparing, often sacrificing personal life and comfort. For many, clearing the exam even once is a dream fulfilled. But some candidates not only crack it but also defy every obstacle in the way.
One such story is that of Malavika Nair from Kerala, who has emerged as an inspiration for aspirants across India. She attempted the UPSC examination in 2024 and achieved an All India Rank (AIR) of 45, despite appearing for the mains examination just 17 days after giving birth to her son.
Her remarkable journey stands as proof that resilience, dedication, and family support can turn the most difficult situations into triumphs.
Cracking UPSC Twice: A Rare Achievement
What makes Malavika Nair’s journey even more inspiring is that this was not her first success. She had earlier cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2022, securing All India Rank 172. That attempt earned her a position in the Indian Revenue Service (IRS).
However, her dream was always to become an IAS officer. Unsatisfied with stopping at her first success, she decided to appear once again. Her determination paid off in 2024 when she reached her goal with AIR 45, securing a spot in the Indian Administrative Service.
Kerala Roots and Early Struggles
Malavika hails from Chengannur in Alappuzha district of Kerala. In her interviews following the results, she credited her family and faith for her achievements. She said she was grateful to God for her success and thrilled that her name appeared in the rank list.
She revealed that 2024 was her final attempt at the UPSC examination. She had already faced challenges balancing her professional responsibilities as an IRS officer, her personal life, and the rigorous demands of UPSC preparation.
Balancing Motherhood and Preparation
One of the most striking aspects of her journey was the timing of her exam. Malavika shared that while she was writing the prelims examination, she was already pregnant. This made the journey more challenging on the health front.
Her son was born on September 3, 2024. Barely over two weeks later, on September 20, she sat for the mains examination. Facing one of India’s most grueling exams during such a demanding personal phase is a feat that has left the UPSC community in awe.
Malavika herself described the experience as very tough but emphasized that her family’s support gave her the strength to continue.
The Role of Family Support
Malavika Nair has consistently acknowledged the unwavering support of her family. She said that without their help, balancing exam preparation with motherhood would have been impossible.
Her husband, Nandagopan M, is an IPS trainee and currently in charge of the Manjeri police station in Malappuram district. His encouragement and understanding, along with the support of other family members, provided Malavika the environment she needed to succeed.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that behind every successful candidate stands a network of supportive family members and mentors who make the dream possible.
Learning from Past Attempts
Malavika highlighted that her previous attempts at the UPSC examination played a crucial role in her eventual success. The experience gained over the years, from attempting prelims to clearing mains and interviews, helped her refine her strategies.
She emphasized that the lessons from her 2022 attempt guided her in handling pressure, understanding exam patterns, and developing resilience. These insights proved invaluable during her final and most challenging attempt in 2024.
Inspirational Message to Aspirants
When asked about her success, Malavika said, “Success does not come overnight, but with determination, it surely arrives one day.”
Her story serves as an inspiring reminder for UPSC aspirants who face setbacks, personal struggles, or health challenges. It shows that perseverance, coupled with the right mindset, can overcome even the toughest odds.
Her journey also emphasizes the importance of balancing mental health, family commitments, and preparation. Malavika has become a role model, particularly for women aspirants who often juggle multiple responsibilities alongside their UPSC dreams.
Breaking Stereotypes Around Women Aspirants
UPSC preparation is demanding, often requiring candidates to isolate themselves from personal responsibilities. Malavika’s success story breaks this stereotype, proving that women can pursue their dreams while managing motherhood and family life.
Her achievement challenges the perception that personal milestones such as childbirth must delay or hinder professional goals. Instead, she demonstrated that with resilience and planning, both dreams can coexist.
Malavika’s Future as an IAS Officer
With her new rank, Malavika Nair will soon join the ranks of India’s top bureaucrats as an IAS officer. This marks the beginning of a new journey where she will use her skills and determination to serve the nation.
Her experience of overcoming adversity is expected to guide her future role as an administrator. Aspirants across India are already looking up to her as an example of integrity, strength, and perseverance.
The Broader Impact of Her Story
Malavika’s story resonates beyond UPSC aspirants. It inspires working women, young mothers, and students across the country. Her success highlights that challenges can become stepping stones rather than barriers.
For the UPSC community, her journey underscores the importance of persistence, preparation, and belief in oneself. For society at large, it sends a powerful message about the importance of supporting women in their personal and professional goals.
The UPSC success story of Malavika Nair is not just about securing All India Rank 45. It is about determination, resilience, and breaking barriers. From appearing for mains just 17 days after childbirth to cracking UPSC twice, her journey is nothing short of extraordinary.
She has set a shining example for future aspirants, especially women, proving that with strong willpower and family support, no dream is too big.
Her story will remain etched in the inspirational journeys of UPSC, reminding every aspirant that challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities to prove strength.
