Learn about the remarkable journey of IAS officer Kanishak Kataria, who passed the UPSC Civil Service exam on his first try in 2018 and declined a lucrative overseas position to further his aspirations of serving his country.
With thousands of applicants vying for a small number of highly sought-after positions annually, passing the UPSC Civil Services Examination is a huge accomplishment. Few tales of tenacity and success are as motivational as those of IAS officer Kanishak Kataria. After declining a Rs 1 crore job offer from Samsung to serve his nation, this remarkable person went on to earn an All India Rank (AIR) 1 on his first try in the 2018 UPSC test. His story is a tribute to perseverance, fortitude, and having the guts to pursue one’s passion.
Who is Kanishak Kataria?
Originating from Jaipur, Rajasthan, IAS officer Kanishak Kataria has inspired millions of future government officials. He graduated with a degree in computer science from IIT Bombay and became a remarkable talent in his field. Because of his genius, Samsung in South Korea offered him a high-paying position with an annual salary of Rs 1 crore. However, he turned down the offer and chose to study for the UPSC exam since his desire to serve the country outweighed any personal benefits.
When Kanishak passed the Civil Services Examination in 2018 with an AIR 1 on his first try, his decision had paid off. His accomplishment served as a reminder of the value of perseverance, methodical planning, and a defined goal.
Kanishak’s decision paid off when he topped the Civil Services Examination in 2018, achieving AIR 1 on his very first attempt. His success underscored the importance of determination, disciplined preparation, and a clear vision.
The Road to Success
Many people consider the UPSC exam to be among the most difficult in India, requiring constant focus and careful preparation. These characteristics are best illustrated by Kanishak’s preparation process. He used a well-organised study schedule, efficient time management, and a well-rounded approach to thoroughly cover the extensive material.
Kanishak credits his family’s encouragement and his own tenacity for a large portion of his accomplishments. He overcame obstacles with composure and optimism because he had a clear aim in mind. His experience encourages prospective applicants to remain driven and tenacious despite the difficulty of the objective.
A Proud Moment for the Family
In an intriguing development, on September 30, 2024, Kanishak signed his father Sanwar Mal Verma’s resignation orders. Sanwar Mal Verma had retired as Divisional Commissioner in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. This special occasion marked a proud turning point in the family’s journey and represented their legacy of dedication and service.
Choosing Service Over Profit
What sets Kanishak distinct is his determination to put service over personal fortune. He turned down a lucrative data science position with Samsung in favour of a career in civil services because he wanted to make a significant impact on society. Young Indians who are trying to strike a balance between ambition and purpose may find resonance in his story.
Lessons from Kanishak Kataria’s Journey
► Passion Over Paychecks: Kanishak’s decision to serve his nation instead of pursuing a lucrative career reminds us that true fulfillment often lies in making a difference.
► Discipline and Consistency: His preparation strategy highlights the importance of staying disciplined and consistent to achieve long-term goals.
► Family Support: The unwavering encouragement of loved ones can be a critical factor in overcoming challenges.
Kanishak Kataria’s inspiring journey from IIT Bombay to AIR 1 in UPSC is a shining example of courage, resilience, and purpose. By turning down immense financial gains to serve his nation, he has set an example for future generations. His story is a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a clear vision, no dream is too big to achieve.