The city of Sangam has yet another reason to be proud. In the final results of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Indian Economic Service (IES) Examination 2025, announced on Wednesday, Urja Raheja of Prayagraj secured the second rank across the country.
Out of only 12 candidates selected nationwide, Urja’s achievement stands out even more, as she cleared the exam in her very first attempt.
Earlier this year, Urja completed her Master’s degree in Economics from Rajendra Singh (Raju Bhaiya) State University, graduating with a gold medal. Her stellar academic journey is a testament to her perseverance and brilliance.
Academic Journey: From School Topper to Gold Medalist
Urja began her schooling at St. Mary’s Convent School, Prayagraj, where she consistently excelled in academics. She scored 95.2% in her Class 10 board exams in 2014, followed by a remarkable 97.5% in Class 12 in 2016.
Thereafter, she earned admission to Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), University of Delhi, one of India’s most prestigious institutions, where she completed her B.A. (Hons) in Economics in 2019.
With her undergraduate degree in hand, Urja set her sights on UPSC’s Civil Services. She appeared in the Civil Services Main Examinations of 2023 and 2024, but despite her hard work, she couldn’t achieve the expected success.
Undeterred, she realigned her focus. Knowing that a Master’s degree was a prerequisite for appearing in the Indian Economic Service (IES) examination, she enrolled in Raju Bhaiya State University in 2023.
Her resilience paid off. Not only did she top her M.A. Economics batch, but she also went on to secure AIR 2 in IES, proving that temporary setbacks are never the end of the road.
Preparation Strategy: 10 Hours a Day of Focused Study
Speaking about her preparation, Urja shared that she began her IES preparation only in January 2025, less than a year before the exam.
On average, she studied for 10 hours a day, maintaining consistency and discipline throughout the preparation phase.
Her advice to fellow aspirants is clear and motivational: “Never lose sight of your goal, don’t let failures discourage you, and give equal importance to every paper of the exam.”
Family Support and Inspiration
Urja belongs to a modest, hardworking family based in Civil Lines, Prayagraj. Her father, Sanjeev Raheja, runs a spectacles shop in Katra, while her mother, Sunita Raheja, is a homemaker. Her elder brother helps their father in the family business.
Despite not coming from a bureaucratic or elite background, Urja’s achievement demonstrates that dedication, discipline, and strong values can overcome any obstacle.
With her stellar rank, Urja is set to embark on a promising career in the Indian Economic Service, contributing to India’s economic policy-making and development planning.
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