Harshita Goyal

Harshita Goyal: UPSC 2024 AIR 2- Charting the Path from Aspiration to Achievement. Read here to know more about her journey.

Harshita Goyal’s remarkable success in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, where she secured the All India Rank 2, is a shining example of how dreams grounded in purpose can lead to extraordinary achievements.

A Chartered Accountant and a graduate of MS University of Baroda, Harshita blends academic excellence with a compassionate vision to serve society, particularly those whose voices often go unheard.

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Who is Harshita Goyal?

Although born in Haryana, Harshita spent her life growing up in Gujarat, a place that played a pivotal role in her growth.

Her educational journey began there, culminating in a B.Com degree from the University of Baroda.

Early in life, she developed a keen sensitivity to the societal challenges faced by women, which seeded her desire to work for their empowerment and representation.

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Driven by a passion to make a tangible difference, Harshita always aspired to become a policymaker capable of shaping India’s future from the grassroots up.

This ambition was also deeply personal—fulfilling her father’s dream and embodying the spirit of service he inspired in her.

What was her Strategy for Success?

Sharing her approach to cracking one of India’s toughest exams, Harshita emphasized consistency, self-discipline, and a personalized study strategy.

More importantly, she highlighted self-belief as the cornerstone of her preparation.

Interestingly, she also advocated the mindful use of social media for educational purposes, citing how she followed informative Instagram pages to supplement her learning.

Harshita’s journey into public service was built on more than just books. She actively participated in the Gujarat Youth Parliament and worked alongside the Ministry of Law and Justice.

These engagements gave her early exposure to governance and policy-making, strengthening her resolve to work within the system to bring about reform.

Her association with the Believe Foundation, an NGO supporting thalassemia and cancer patients, deepened her understanding of public health and social welfare.

This on-the-ground experience made her acutely aware of the lived realities of vulnerable communities—a perspective she intends to carry forward as a civil servant.

UPSC Strategy of Harshita Goyal

Optional Subject: Political Science & International Relations
Medium: English

Harshita shared the following when asked about her strategy of preparation for UPSC CSE:

“Consistency is key. One needs to dedicate specific hours to UPSC preparation. There are days when you don’t feel like studying, and I don’t believe in forceful study. I think it’s important to find what works for you. Study what you love, rather than copying others. I used to take breaks when needed, and I incorporated that into my routine. It’s essential to identify what works for you.”

Regarding social media, Harshita said, “I was active on Instagram but didn’t completely shut myself off from it. I followed accounts that offered valuable insights. Sometimes, what I read on Instagram helped me. For example, in the prelims, I came across a question I had seen on Instagram. It all depends on how much time you spend on it. If it distracts you, it’s better to stay away.”

Harshita Goyal: A Balance of Mind and Heart

Beyond academics and activism, Harshita has a creative spirit. She finds solace in acrylic painting, which serves as an emotional outlet and a means of introspection. For her, creativity isn’t just a pastime—it’s a tool to cultivate empathy and perspective, essential traits for anyone in public service.

An inspiration for Women aspirants

Harshita Goyal is among the top-ranked women in UPSC CSE 2024, including Shakti Dubey (AIR 1), Shah Margi Chirag, Ayushi Bansal and Komal Punia (in the Top 10).

Harshita’s commitment to women’s empowerment stems from personal experience.

She has witnessed the structural and cultural barriers that limit opportunities for women, especially in rural and underprivileged areas.

Her vision of governance includes inclusive policies that promote education, healthcare, and leadership roles for women across sectors.

Harshita Goyal’s ascent from a dream-filled girl in Gujarat to the second-highest scorer in one of India’s most competitive exams sends a powerful message to young women: dare to dream, defy the odds, and become the change you wish to see.

ClearIAS congratulates Harshita Goyal on her success and achievement.