Pushpendra Shrivastava, a resilient resident of New Delhi's Mukherjee Nagar, epitomizes the unyielding spirit of UPSC aspirants across India, especially in Madhya Pradesh. At 47 years old, Shrivastava stands as one of the oldest aspirants in his pursuit of a government job, showcasing unwavering dedication despite facing numerous challenges along the way.
Hailing from Madhya Pradesh's Chhatarpur district, Shrivastava's journey began with the dream of becoming a civil servant, a path he chose over his parents' wish for him to follow their footsteps into teaching. Armed with a Master’s degree in science, he initially ventured into the realm of education by clearing the B.Ed and MPPCS exams. However, his heart yearned for a more impactful role in governance, leading him to set his sights on the prestigious UPSC examinations.
Over the past 27 years, Shrivastava has left no stone unturned in his quest for success. He has appeared for a staggering 73 preliminary examinations, 43 Mains examinations, and 8 interviews across various State and Union Public Service Commissions. His journey reflects not just a personal ambition but also a deep-rooted passion for serving society through administrative roles.
Shrivastava's determination has been fueled by his association with notable mentors and peers in Mukherjee Nagar, including Vikas Divyakirti of Drishti IAS coaching institute, IPS Manoj Sharma, and IRS Shraddha Sharma. Their guidance and support have been instrumental in shaping his approach towards the daunting UPSC syllabus and exam patterns.
Despite financial constraints and the rising cost of living in Delhi, Shrivastava remains undeterred. His one-room apartment in Mukherjee Nagar, which he has called home since 2009, symbolizes his steadfast commitment to his goal. With the backing of his supportive family and his own employment at a coaching institute, Shrivastava continues to pursue his dreams relentlessly.
His focus on Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (MPPSC) examinations underscores his desire to contribute to his home state's governance and development. While the journey has been arduous, Shrivastava remains optimistic about his future, with alternate options such as the Block Education Officer exam in Bihar Public Service Commission serving as backups.
Pushpendra Shrivastava's story resonates as a testament to resilience, determination, and the undying spirit of those who strive to make a meaningful impact through public service and governance.