From Forging Iron With His Father to Securing AIR 30 in UPSC CSE 2024, Smit Panchal’s Journey Is a True Story of Determination
Every year, the UPSC Civil Services Examination creates thousands of success stories, but only a few leave a lasting impact. One such inspiring journey is that of Smit Panchal from Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Born into a family of blacksmiths, Smit spent his childhood helping his father shape iron in a small workshop. Despite financial hardships, family responsibilities, and repeated setbacks, he never gave up on his dream of becoming an IAS officer.
His perseverance paid off when he secured All India Rank (AIR) 30 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, proving that determination can overcome even the toughest obstacles.
UPSC Result Changed Everything
On the day the UPSC CSE 2024 results were declared, lakhs of aspirants were anxiously refreshing their phones and laptops. Smit Panchal, however, was not in a coaching institute or library.
Instead, he was working alongside his father at their modest blacksmith shop in Ahmedabad. As the sound of hammers echoed through the workshop, a message arrived on his phone confirming that he had secured AIR 30.
For Smit and his family, it was more than just an exam result—it was the reward for years of sacrifice, perseverance, and hard work.
A Childhood Filled With Financial Struggles
Smit’s family originally belonged to Gujarat’s Aravalli district before moving to Ahmedabad in search of better opportunities.
His father, Hasmukhbhai Panchal, earned the family’s livelihood by working as a blacksmith. Their financial condition was difficult, but his parents remained committed to educating their children.
In 2011, his father’s health deteriorated, requiring surgery. During this challenging period, Smit began assisting his father in the workshop while continuing his education.
He balanced long hours of physical labor with his studies, determined not to let financial problems end his dreams.
First Graduate in the Family
Despite the family’s economic challenges, Smit completed his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science.
His sister also graduated, making them the first graduates in their family.
During his college years, Smit developed a strong interest in public service and decided to pursue the dream of becoming an IAS officer.
He believed that joining the civil services would not only transform his family’s future but also allow him to contribute meaningfully to society.
Financial Challenges During UPSC Preparation
In 2022, Smit moved to Delhi to prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
However, the cost of coaching, accommodation, food, and daily expenses placed enormous pressure on his family.
During this difficult phase, one of his close friends, Kaushal, provided financial support that helped him continue his preparation.
Smit later joined a structured UPSC coaching program in 2023, where he strengthened his preparation and developed a more systematic study plan.
Missed UPSC Mains by Just 2.5 Marks
One of the biggest setbacks in Smit’s journey came during the UPSC 2023 examination.
He narrowly missed qualifying for the Mains examination after falling short in the CSAT paper by just 2.5 marks.
Although the result was heartbreaking, Smit refused to quit. Instead, he carefully analyzed his mistakes and prepared an improved strategy.
Worked Full-Time While Preparing
Unable to afford life in Delhi, Smit returned to Ahmedabad.
To support himself financially, he started working as a counselor at a coaching institute.
Even after working throughout the day, he dedicated five to six hours every evening to UPSC preparation.
During this period, many people discouraged him and doubted whether he would ever succeed.
Instead of allowing criticism to break his confidence, Smit turned it into motivation.
Smarter Strategy Led to Success
Learning from his previous attempt, Smit focused heavily on improving his weak areas.
His preparation included:
- Intensive CSAT practice
- Solving previous years’ question papers
- Daily answer writing
- Consistent revision
After saving enough money, he resigned from his job and returned to Delhi to prepare full-time.
This time, his strategy was stronger, more disciplined, and result-oriented.
AIR 30 in UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024
Smit’s relentless effort finally paid off in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024.
He scored:
- 804 marks in the written examination
- 204 marks in the Personality Test (Interview)
- Total Score: 1008 marks
His optional subject was Political Science and International Relations (PSIR), in which he scored an impressive 275 marks.
With this outstanding performance, he secured All India Rank 30, earning a place among the country’s top civil service candidates.
A Journey That Inspires Millions
Smit Panchal’s story is far more than an examination success.
It is the story of a young man who worked in a blacksmith’s workshop, supported his family during difficult times, faced repeated failures, overcame financial hardship, and ignored criticism while pursuing his dream.
His journey reminds every UPSC aspirant that success does not depend on where you begin in life—it depends on your determination, discipline, and willingness to keep moving forward despite setbacks.
Today, Smit Panchal stands as an inspiration for millions of students across India who dream of achieving something extraordinary, regardless of their background.
Conclusion
Smit Panchal’s remarkable journey from a blacksmith’s workshop to becoming an IAS officer proves that dedication and perseverance can change lives. His success demonstrates that financial struggles, failures, and criticism are temporary, but consistent hard work can create extraordinary achievements. His story continues to inspire countless UPSC aspirants and young Indians to believe in their dreams and never stop working toward them.
