Discipline over motivation: IRS Officer on cracking UPSC and staying fit

For thousands of young Indians, the Civil Services Examination represents ambition, purpose, and the chance to make a difference. But cracking UPSC demands more than academic brilliance—it requires discipline, resilience, and a balanced lifestyle. In an insightful interaction, with The Hans India, Narendra Kumar Yadav, an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer and Fit India Brand Ambassador, shares lessons from his own journey and offers a grounded, practical roadmap for aspirants.

Having cleared the Civil Services Examination at a young age and gone on to serve in key roles, Yadav is known for his structured approach to preparation and life. As one of the first civil servants to be associated with the Fit India Movement as a brand ambassador, he consistently advocates the idea that a fit body and a focused mind go hand in hand. His message is simple but often overlooked: success in UPSC is not just about studying harder, but living smarter.

What should UPSC aspirants focus on in the early stages of preparation?

The beginning defines the journey. Aspirants should focus on building a strong foundation instead of rushing into advanced material. Start by understanding the syllabus and exam pattern thoroughly—this brings much-needed clarity. NCERT books are essential for conceptual understanding, and reading a reliable newspaper daily helps develop analytical thinking. One common mistake is resource overload. Many aspirants collect too many books but fail to revise them effectively. It is far more useful to stick to limited sources and revise them multiple times. The early stage is also about building discipline and creating a routine that can be sustained over months. UPSC is not a sprint but a marathon, and patience is key.

How can students balance physical fitness with the demanding schedule of UPSC preparation?

Fitness should not be seen as separate from preparation—it is an integral part of it. You don’t need long hours in the gym; even 30 to 40 minutes of daily exercise is enough. It could be a brisk walk, yoga, or basic strength training. The focus should be on consistency.

Physical activity improves concentration, reduces stress, and enhances overall efficiency. During my preparation, I used fitness as a mental reset, which helped me stay fresh and focused. In today’s screen-heavy lifestyle, movement becomes even more important. A healthy body supports a sharp mind, so fitness should be seen as an investment, not a distraction.

How important is mental resilience, and how can aspirants deal with stress and failure?

Mental resilience is one of the most important aspects of UPSC preparation. The journey is long and uncertain, and setbacks are inevitable. Failure is not an exception—it is part of the process. What matters is how you respond to it.

Instead of seeing failure as defeat, treat it as feedback. Maintaining balance is essential—proper sleep, regular exercise, and short breaks help manage stress. Stay connected with supportive people and avoid excessive comparison on social media. Most importantly, remember that your self-worth is not defined by one exam. Stay grounded, trust your preparation, and keep moving forward.

What common mistakes do UPSC aspirants make?

Lack of direction is a major issue. Many aspirants start preparation without fully understanding the syllabus and exam pattern. Resource overload and digital distractions further reduce efficiency. Another critical mistake is delaying answer writing practice. It is a skill that must be developed early. To avoid these pitfalls, stick to limited resources, revise regularly, and maintain consistency. Most importantly, avoid comparing your journey with others and focus on your own progress.

How should aspirants approach current affairs and answer writing?

A simple and consistent approach works best. Rely on one standard newspaper and supplement it with monthly compilations. The focus should not just be on reading, but on analysing the “why” and “how” behind issues. Making concise notes helps in revision.

For answer writing, structure is crucial. A clear introduction, a well-organised body, and a balanced conclusion make answers effective. Including facts, examples, and multiple perspectives adds value. Writing is a skill that improves with regular practice and honest self-evaluation.

What message would you give students about long-term motivation?

Motivation is not constant, but discipline can carry you through. It is important to have a clear purpose for joining Civil Services—one that goes beyond prestige or job security. Set small, achievable goals and celebrate small wins. UPSC preparation requires patience and the ability to delay gratification. Success is not just about intelligence; it is about perseverance and consistency over time.

How should aspirants manage revision and mock tests?

Revision is the backbone of preparation. A cyclic approach—weekly, monthly, and before the exam—helps in better retention. Time management techniques like time-blocking can improve productivity.

Mock tests are equally important as they simulate the real exam environment.

They should be taken seriously, and more importantly, analysed thoroughly. Self-evaluation helps identify mistakes and areas of improvement. Low scores should not discourage aspirants but motivate them to improve.

What fitness routine would you recommend?

Keep it simple and sustainable. Start with a short warm-up, followed by 20–25 minutes of exercise such as push-ups, squats, or light cardio, and end with stretching or yoga. Even a brisk 30-minute walk daily is effective. The goal is consistency, not intensity.

What is your message to India’s youth as a Fit India Ambassador?

Fitness is a necessity, not a luxury. In today’s fast-paced, digital world, sedentary lifestyles are becoming common, affecting both health and productivity.

Fitness is not about appearance—it is about energy, discipline, and the ability to perform at your best. Start small, stay consistent, and make fitness a part of your daily routine. A strong nation is built on strong individuals.