The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam, known as one of the toughest in India, demands relentless dedication and perseverance. Mudra Gairola, a former IPS officer turned IAS officer, exemplifies determination and resilience. Leaving behind a successful career in dentistry, she chose to pursue civil services to fulfill her father’s lifelong dream.
Mudra, originally from Karnaprayag in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, now lives in Delhi with her family. A bright student from her school days, she consistently excelled academically, scoring 96% in her Class 10 exams and 97% in Class 12. Her achievements earned her an award from Kiran Bedi, India’s first female IPS officer.
After school, Mudra pursued dentistry, earning a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree from a reputed medical college in Mumbai, where she secured a gold medal. She later joined a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) course in Delhi.
However, Mudra’s career path changed significantly due to her father, Arun Gairola. A UPSC aspirant himself in 1973, he was unable to clear the exam. Encouraging his daughter to achieve what he could not, Arun inspired Mudra to aim for civil services. Determined to honor her father’s wish, she left her master’s course to prepare for the UPSC exam.
Mudra’s journey was not without challenges. She reached the interview stage in 2018 but did not clear the exam. In 2019 and 2020, she faced further setbacks. Refusing to give up, Mudra persisted, and in 2021, her hard work paid off. She cleared the UPSC exam, securing the 165th rank and becoming an IPS officer.
Not stopping there, Mudra aimed higher. In 2022, she appeared for the UPSC again and achieved an impressive 53rd rank, earning the prestigious IAS post. Her story of grit and perseverance is an inspiration to countless aspirants across the country.
