This woman, a mother of 6-year-old, cracked UPSC in 2017
What's the story
While many of us think getting married and having kids could end our professional dreams, Pushplata from Rewari, Haryana, has proved otherwise.
In 2017, she cleared one of the toughest exams in the country, Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission, with AIR 80.
Notably, at the time of clearing the exam, she also had a son.
Here's her story.
Studies
Pushplata pursued MBA, worked for private sector and State Bank
Coming from a village, Pushplata completed her education while staying at her uncle's.
In 2006, she pursued MBA after completing her BSc. Later, for 2 years she worked in private sector followed by her job at State Bank of Hyderabad.
"The work was limited and I felt that there was no way to go beyond that. But I wanted to do more," said Pushplata.
Marriage
Decided to prepare for UPSC after her marriage in 2011
In 2011, she got married to a doctor and moved to Manesar. After a few years, she decided to prepare for the UPSC.
While talking to The Better India, Pushplata said, "When I started preparing, I had no idea what an IAS officer could do, and what powers come with the position. It was just a desire to make a difference and contribute meaningfully."
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She gives credit to her husband for motivating her
According to Pushplata, her husband was her major source of motivation. "He always supported me and encouraged me to take up the challenge. It was truly a challenge because I hadn't touched a book for almost five years when I started preparing," she added.
Support
Do not lose yourself in what others would think: Husband
Pushplata further said, "My husband would always say that whatever you do, give it your all-do not leave any scope for regrets."
"Do not lose yourself in what others will think of you but just stay focused on the preparation," she added.
Further, she believes that her in-laws' presence also helped her during the difficult situation as her son, Garvit, was just 2-year-old then.
Mother-son
Son was patient and understanding, says Pushplata
As per Pushplata, her son understood her aspirations and was patient throughout.
She said, "There were times when he would just come and sit on my lap while I studied. In fact, he would tell me to continue studying and not stop because he was there."
Now that Garvit is 6-year-old, he understands the reason for his mother living away from him.
Training
Currently in Mussoorie for training, Pushplata misses family
Currently, Pushplata is away from home, training at the institute in Mussoorie and misses her family.
"Garvit often says that once I finish, we will all stay together. He has never troubled me. He's been such a wonderfully accommodating child," said Pushplata.
There is no element of doubt that her journey is not only interesting but also an inspiration for every woman.
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'Keep counting days before I can be with them again'
Meanwhile, she believes that her sacrifices would eventually help her child. While talking about it, she said, "It is especially hard when other trainees are visited by their kids. I keep counting days before I can be with them again."