10 Lakh dreams, 1009 seats: What happens to the ones who don't make it?

India Today

30-04-2025

When Riya Sharma sat for her third attempt at the UPSC Civil Services Examination this year, she carried not just books and notes, but the weight of five years of relentless effort, isolation, and sacrifice. Like over 10 lakh aspirants across India, she dreamt of one of the 1,009 coveted seats—to serve the nation as an IAS or IPS officer.The odds, however, were stark. The UPSC is not just one of the toughest exams in India—it is a crucible. Out of over a million aspirants, only a thousand or so make it. For many, including Riya, the journey ends without a selection letter.advertisement'I couldn't speak to anyone for two days. I just stayed in my room. I kept wondering—what now?' she says. Her words echo the thoughts of thousands who don't clear the final hurdle.
It's not just about failing a test. For most, the emotional fallout is personal, intense, and disorienting. Years of preparation come with high stakes—dreams built around serving the country, family expectations, financial stress, and a personal identity rooted in being an 'aspirant'.So what happens to the ones like Riya, who don't make it?How do they navigate this emotional maze of setbacks, self-doubt, and second chances?To explore this, India Today spoke with aspirants, mentors, and mental health experts, delving into the reality behind the statistics—the stories of resilience, reimagined futures, and how failure in UPSC often becomes the foundation for something just as meaningful.THE PYSCHE OF UPSC ASPIRANTS AFTER FAILUREadvertisementEmotional turmoil and resilienceFailure in UPSC is not just a professional setback-it is deeply personal. Aspirants often invest years, sacrificing social lives, careers, and sometimes even health. The aftermath of not clearing the exam can be emotionally devastating. Many report symptoms of depression, insomnia, loss of appetite, and a sense of isolation.'I could not sleep properly at night. Could not eat food properly. But slowly returned to the routine,' shares one aspirant who faced repeated setbacks before eventually qualifying for the prelims, only to fall short again in the mains.For some, the emotional toll is overwhelming. Ritika Sharma, who failed five attempts, described a moment when she contemplated ending her life, saying, 'I was too tired to prove myself. I wanted peace instantly.'Her journey highlights the intense psychological pressure and the need for a strong support system.COPING MECHANISMS AND PERSPECTIVE SHIFTSDespite the pain, many aspirants find ways to bounce back. Experts and mentors encourage students to process their emotions, reflect on their motivations, and view failure as a stepping stone rather than a dead end.'Acknowledge and process your emotions to build emotional resilience,' advises a guide for unsuccessful aspirants, emphasising the importance of support from family, friends, and mentors.advertisement"Every year, the UPSC journey tests more than just knowledge—it tests character, resilience, and the will to keep moving forward. Each aspirant's effort is worthy of respect," says Vivek Tiwari, CEO, Drishti IAS.ASPIRANTS' PERSPECTIVES: REACTIONS REFLECTIONSResilience: Many aspirants, like Kunal R Virulkar, who attempted the exam 12 times without selection, share their stories publicly to inspire others. His viral post, '12 attempts, 7 mains, 5 interviews, NO SELECTION,' resonated with thousands, highlighting the perseverance and hope that define this community.Learning from Failure: Aspirants often analyse their performance, identify weaknesses, and refine their strategies for future attempts. 'Failure is not a setback but a learning experience,' is a recurring sentiment amongst those who continue their preparation.Identity Beyond UPSC: Some, after repeated attempts, move on to other careers, leveraging the knowledge and discipline gained during their UPSC journey. They emphasise that life after UPSC can still be meaningful and successful.EXPERT AND TEACHER PERSPECTIVESBalancing ambition with realismMentors and teachers play a crucial role in helping aspirants manage expectations. They stress the importance of having a 'Plan B' and remind students that the exam is not the sole measure of their worth.'UPSC aspirants deserve respect for their chosen path, not discouragement,' says a civil servant who now mentors students for free, focusing on psychological well-being.advertisementThis year was no different. Many brilliant minds gave it their all, and while not everyone found their name in the final list, countless emerged stronger—wiser, more grounded, and more determined than ever."we believe that the true success of this journey lies not only in securing a rank but in the growth it inspires. We've seen aspirants bounce back with renewed focus, and others discover meaningful paths beyond the exam hall," Vivek Tiwari further adds.This year, as always, we salute not just the toppers—but all those who dare to dream, fall, rise again, and keep striving."A missed attempt is not a failure; it's a turning point—a moment that often leads to even greater destinations."COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
(The figures mentioned are approximate and subject to change.)WHAT SEPARATES THESE SELECTED FROM THE REST?According to experts, success in UPSC is rarely about raw intelligence alone. The key differentiators are:advertisementDiscipline and consistency: Successful aspirants maintain a structured routine, prioritise revision, and avoid procrastination.Effective strategy: A well-defined study plan, time management, and regular practice through mock tests are crucial.Mindset: Self-belief, a growth mindset, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks are often what separate those who clear the exam from those who come close.Guidance and mentorship: Access to quality mentorship and timely feedback can dramatically improve an aspirant's chances.HELPING ASPIRANTS BALANCE AMBITION AND REALISMTeachers and mentors recommend:Encouraging aspirants to set realistic goals and timelines.Emphasising the value of learning and personal growth, not just selection.Providing psychological support and promoting self-care to prevent burnout.Urging students to develop parallel career plans and explore alternative opportunities.IS UPSC WORTH THE HYPE?The UPSC Civil Services Examination is often portrayed as the ultimate benchmark of merit and intellect in India. But is it truly worth the hype?Yes—and No.Why is it worth the hype?Purpose-driven careers: For many, the opportunity to serve the nation as an IAS, IPS, or IFS officer is a deeply fulfilling goal.Prestige and power: Civil servants hold influential positions that can create tangible change at both grassroots and policy levels.advertisementDiverse opportunities: UPSC opens doors to a wide array of services—administrative, police, foreign, revenue, and more—each offering meaningful impact.Why might it not be for everyone?Extreme selectivity: With over a million aspirants and barely 1,000 selections, the odds are brutally slim.Mental and financial cost: Years of preparation, social withdrawal, and emotional exhaustion can take a heavy toll.Narrative of singular success: Society often glorifies only the selected few, overlooking equally capable individuals who go unranked, thereby equating worth with a result sheet.The UPSC journey is a crucible that forges resilience, discipline, and self-awareness. For the 10 lakh dreams that don't find a place amongst the 1009 seats, the experience is often painful, but it is not wasted. As experts and aspirants alike attest, the lessons learned-about perseverance, adaptability, and self-worth-remain invaluable whether the exam is cleared.