‘Social media can wait, dreams can’t’: Riya Bansode’s journey from Pune slum to MPSC success

Bansode had recently cleared the prelims of Group A examination that selects candidates for various gazetted officers posts such as deputy collector and DySP and is preparing for the Mains.

After the declaration of the result on February 12, she said the same people view her differently. “More importantly, the result has given hope to other children from underprivileged backgrounds that their dreams are valid, no matter where they come from,” she said, adding that she worked under the ‘earn and learn’ scheme to gather funds to apply for competitive examinations and purchase books since her graduation years.

“While my peers asked me to join them on social media and frequent outings, I couldn’t afford to spend time on it, and decided to deactivate all such accounts to give my undivided attention to the rigorous exam preparation. A typical routine would include 7 to 8 hours of study, as I always emphasised quality over quantity of study hours and this has helped me in the recent success,” said Bansode remarked.

Despite facing repeated setbacks in the last four years, including several near-misses at the interview stage in the MPSC State Services Exam and Group B Exam, Bansode’s resolve never wavered. “Each failure only strengthened my determination. This result is a breakthrough moment, but not my final destination. I am now more motivated to achieve my dream of becoming an Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officer,” she added.

Banode mentioned that the financial support from Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Research and Training Institute (BARTI) with free coaching, mentorship, and stipend was crucial in reducing the financial burden on her family. “It allowed me to focus entirely on my preparations. The success belongs to my family who never pressured me into marriage despite several setbacks, my friends who stood by me, and well-wishers who never lost faith in my abilities,” said Riya.

“Being the first government officer from our family, I aim to work to overcome stereotypes often associated with backward classes and slum dwellers and work on facilitating quality education especially through public schools to reduce societal inequalities and create pathways for other underprivileged candidates to dream big,” added Riya.

“My experience so far would suggest that one’s socio-economic background does not define their future. With discipline, dedication, and the right support system, every dream is attainable,” explained Riya.