Viral Story: India’s Youngest IAS Officer Neha Byadwal Ditched Phone For 3 Years To Ace UPSC Exam

Neha Byadwal, India's youngest IAS officer, gave up her phone for three years to pass the UPSC and get AIR 569. Her narrative of focus and dedication is inspiring thousands of people around the country.

Sakshi Gupta Updated: Thursday, June 26, 2025, 01:58 PM IST
 India’s Youngest IAS Officer Neha Byadwal  | Instagram (nehabyadwal)

India’s Youngest IAS Officer Neha Byadwal | Instagram (nehabyadwal)

Neha Byadwal's Success Story: In an inspiring show of resolve and self-control, Neha Byadwal has overcome to become one of India's youngest IAS officers after giving up mobile phone usage entirely for three years to pursue her UPSC ambition. Born on 3rd July 1999 in Jaipur and raised in Chhattisgarh, Neha studied History, Economics, and Geography at DB Girls College, Raipur. Although she graduated as a university topper, she didn't clear the UPSC exam at first instance and encountered quite a few hiccups.

Resolved to revamp her approach, Neha took a key decision: she eliminated all social media and smartphone distractions for three straight years. The stringency of this self-imposed regime set the stage for her triumph on her fourth try, where she landed a stunning All India Rank (AIR) 569 in 2021 with a score of 960 marks–including 151 in the interview.

Only 24 years of age, Neha was recruited into the IAS in August 2022 and is now serving as Joint Magistrate in Uttar Pradesh's Jalaun district. Her systematized approach directly connected with UPSC aspirants, plenty of whom have complimented her work ethic on social media. Neha continues to motivate aspirants by sharing inspirational tips and pieces of her study schedule on Instagram, whose followers now cross 65,000

Neha's experience teaches a very important lesson: even in the era of digital distraction, sheer focus can be a game-changer. Her choice to disconnect from her screen illustrates the way that self-discipline and purpose can conquer one of India's most challenging tests. As her narrative goes viral on all educational forums and social media, Neha Byadwal's story is an inspiration to many as a shining example of resilience, forcing them to question the place of technology in the accomplishment of their aspirations.

Published on: Thursday, June 26, 2025, 01:59 PM IST

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