Exclusive | "Be Realistic...": Ajay R Raj, Specially-Abled UPSC Achiever On Preparation Strategy
In an inspiring story of perseverance and realism, Ajay R Raj—a visually impaired college teacher from Kerala—has secured the 730th rank in the 2024 UPSC Civil Services Examination. Speaking to Timeline in an exclusive interview, the Kozhikode native shared not just his preparation strategy, but also his deep reflections on ambition, doubt, and the need for a grounded approach to competitive exams.
Currently a faculty member in the English Department at Christ College, Irinjalakuda, Thrissur, Ajay has consistently stood out in academics. A former Plus Two rank-holder in Kerala, he graduated and post-graduated from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, and joined Christ College as a lecturer in 2023. His achievement has earned accolades from several quarters, including Kerala’s Higher Education Minister, R. Bindu.
But behind the celebration lies a story of struggle, self-doubt, and relentless effort.
“Preparation Is Full of Doubt—Until You See Your Name”
“I think the doubt only ends when you see your name on the rank list,” Ajay admitted. “Until then, it’s a journey riddled with uncertainty. There were countless moments I doubted myself and thought about giving up. But I had friends who helped me see clearly and gave me the courage to keep going.”
Ajay credits his preparation success to a solid support system—his flatmate who reviewed his answers late into the night, his mentors at Lead IAS Academy in Trivandrum, and his close-knit circle of friends and family. “Anirudh Sunny, the founder of my academy, was like a local guardian to me during my Class 11 and 12 days in Trivandrum. That kind of mentoring is rare and invaluable.”
“We Must Be Realistic”
While most UPSC success stories are draped in idealism, Ajay’s message to aspirants is remarkably grounded. “We should be realistic in our approach,” he stressed. “One or two attempts with full commitment—that’s what I would advise. If it doesn’t work out, move on with a plan B. UPSC is not the end of the world.”
Ajay R Raj after his successful feat at the UPSC Civil Services exam
He pointed out how the same system that celebrates success can be brutally unforgiving of failure. “A friend of mine cracked it on his sixth attempt. But for the last five years, he was taunted and dismissed. Success has many fathers, but failure is orphaned.”
Ajay believes that many aspirants who don’t make the list aren’t necessarily less capable. “Sometimes it’s just that luck favours someone else. That doesn’t mean others didn’t try hard enough.”
Shifting Strategies and Choosing Sociology
Ajay initially chose Malayalam literature as his optional subject but later shifted to Sociology. “Though I loved Malayalam, I faced some limitations with it. Sociology came naturally to me because my English literature background had already exposed me to interdisciplinary thinking,” he explained.
Guidance played a key role in this shift. “Rajitha ma’am at Shankar IAS Academy in Chennai was phenomenal. She’s been teaching Sociology for 18 years and offered structured, feedback-rich training. That made all the difference.”
“No Textbook Method”
When asked about the ideal UPSC preparation method, Ajay was clear: there isn’t one.
“It depends on the individual. If someone is self-motivated and analytical, they may not need coaching. But for average aspirants like most of us, academies matter,” he said.
“Institutes help you spot trends. For example, modern history questions have dipped in recent prelims. If you’re unaware of that, you might waste time. That’s where mentorship is crucial. They’ve seen hundreds of answer scripts and can guide you precisely.”
Learning to Unlearn
Even with a strong academic background, Ajay had to rewire his study habits. “Coming from a literature background, I was used to analytical thinking and not memorising facts. But UPSC demands factual clarity, especially for prelims. I had to unlearn old methods and relearn how to study.”
Ajay R Raj being felicitated by DYFI
“I Don’t Give Up”
For Ajay, the UPSC journey was not just academic—it was personal. “It’s hard for me to leave something unfinished. If I quit, it stays in my mind like an unresolved plot. That’s why I stuck with it.”
He described his current feeling as a mix of gratitude and confidence. “It’s a prestigious exam. Clearing it makes you believe that you can explore and take charge of your life.”
On Withdrawal and Plan B
Ajay also had some thoughtful advice for aspirants who consider quitting. “Withdrawal isn’t a failure. It’s wise to know when to stop. UPSC can be a sunken cost trap—you keep thinking one more attempt will do it. But sometimes, walking away is braver.”
He added that UPSC preparation often opens up other avenues. “Many discover new interests—like disaster management or development studies—and go on to build successful careers in those areas. If you find a new path, embrace it.”
What Lies Ahead?
While happy with his current result, Ajay hasn’t ruled out trying for a better rank. “I want to cherish this moment first. But if the service allocation isn’t favourable, I’ll try again. Improvement is always possible. Once the scorecard is out, I’ll analyse what went wrong and work on it.”
Ajay’s story isn’t just one of success—it’s a tale of balance, perspective, and maturity. It’s a reminder that civil service is a means, not an end—and that realism, resilience, and readiness to change course are sometimes more valuable than blind perseverance.
