She fought crime on Delhi’s streets by day and studied for UPSC between patrols. The inspiring journey of a police officer who proved that even the busiest professionals can chase big dreams.
In India, preparing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination is often described as one of the toughest academic journeys. Many aspirants leave their jobs and spend years preparing full-time. But the story of Apurva Verma, a police officer in Delhi, shows that determination can overcome even the toughest circumstances.
Verma, an Assistant Commissioner of Police in Delhi Police, recently cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination with an All India Rank of 42. What makes her achievement remarkable is that she did it while actively serving in the police force, handling crime cases and maintaining law and order in the capital.
Her journey has become a powerful inspiration for thousands of working professionals across India who believe that a demanding job leaves no time to chase bigger dreams.
Studying Between Duty Calls
Working in the police is not a routine desk job. Officers often deal with emergencies, protests, investigations, and late-night operations. Yet Verma found a way to prepare for the exam.
Instead of traditional long study sessions, she adapted her preparation to fit her work schedule. While patrolling or travelling for duty, she used her iPad to listen to video lectures. Since carrying books during patrol was not practical, audio and video learning became her main study method.
This flexible approach allowed her to continue learning even during small pockets of free time.
Her story reflects a growing trend in India where technology is making education more accessible. Online lectures, digital notes, and recorded classes are helping professionals learn whenever and wherever they can.
Six Attempts, One Determined Mind
Success in UPSC rarely comes easily. Verma cleared the exam in her sixth and final attempt.
Many candidates would have given up after repeated attempts while managing a demanding job. But she chose to stay calm and continue preparing steadily.
Her experience in policing also helped shape her preparation. Handling stressful situations on the job taught her logical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving—skills that are valuable in the UPSC examination as well.
Instead of seeing her job as a hurdle, she used it as a training ground.
The Role of Family Support
Behind every difficult journey, there is often strong emotional support. Verma credits her husband, Kaushik Mangera, an officer in the Indian Railway Traffic Service, for helping her stay focused.
While she concentrated on studying and executing her preparation plan, he supported her with planning and motivation. This partnership played a crucial role in keeping her morale strong during stressful periods.
A Message for Working Professionals
Verma believes there is no single formula for success in the UPSC exam. Every aspirant has different strengths, weaknesses, and life situations.
Her advice to candidates—especially those already working—is simple:
- Understand your strengths and weaknesses
- Create a preparation strategy that suits your routine
- Use technology to study smarter
- Stay consistent even when progress feels slow
Most importantly, she reminds aspirants that hard work never goes to waste.
Why Her Story Matters Today
In India, millions of young professionals dream of changing their careers through competitive exams. However, many feel discouraged because of long working hours or financial responsibilities.
Verma’s achievement sends a powerful message: you do not always need perfect conditions to pursue a dream. Sometimes determination, discipline, and smart use of time can be enough.
Her journey proves that ambition does not have to wait until life becomes easier.
The Larger Inspiration
India’s competitive exams test not only knowledge but also patience, resilience, and mental strength. Stories like Verma’s remind us that success is not reserved only for those who can study full-time.
It belongs to anyone who refuses to stop trying.
For working professionals across the country—teachers, engineers, police officers, corporate employees, and government staff—her story carries a simple but powerful lesson:
Your job may take your time, but it does not have to take away your dreams.
