Ahmedabad, May 2025:
In one of the most inspiring UPSC success stories of the year, Smit Panchal, a 22-year-old boy from Gujarat and son of a blacksmith, has secured AIR 30 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024. Despite financial struggles and no access to expensive coaching in Delhi, Smit cracked the toughest exam in India with self-study, consistency, and a focused strategy.
This story is a perfect example for students looking to crack UPSC without coaching.
Also Read : UPSC Topper from Bihar Cracks IAS with Self-Study
UPSC Topper 2024: Humble Beginnings in Ahmedabad
Born and raised in a small neighborhood of Ahmedabad, Smit’s family has always lived a simple life. His father, Hasmukh Panchal, works as a blacksmith and runs a small welding and fabrication shop. Even after a serious surgery in 2011, his father continued working to support the family.
Smit studied at a local school and scored 94% in Class 10. Instead of choosing Science or Commerce, he picked Arts to dedicate more time toward UPSC preparation from an early age.
First Attempt: Failing CSAT, But Not Giving Up
In 2022, Smit moved to Delhi to begin UPSC studies. However, he couldn’t afford full-time coaching and relied on free online resources and UPSC books. In his first attempt in 2023, he missed the CSAT cutoff by just 2.5 marks — a heartbreaking moment.
With rising living expenses in Delhi and no coaching fee support, he returned to Ahmedabad and started working as a counselor in a local coaching institute to earn a small income. But his dream to become an IAS officer was still alive.
Second Attempt: Focus on Self-Study and Strategy
With support from his cousin, Smit returned to Delhi in 2024, this time with a better plan. He focused on:
- Practicing UPSC CSAT previous year papers
- Creating a self-study UPSC timetable
- Taking mock tests regularly
- Reading NCERTs and standard books
- Watching free lectures on YouTube
He didn’t depend on any coaching institute. This time, his smart work paid off.
In the UPSC 2024 results, he secured All India Rank 30, becoming one of the top scorers without traditional coaching.
“No Coaching, Only Hard Work” – Smit’s Advice to Aspirants
Speaking to local reporters, Smit said:
“I knew my parents couldn’t afford coaching, so I made a clear decision to rely on my own efforts. If you understand the exam pattern and focus on practice, you don’t need to spend lakhs in Delhi.”
He also stressed the importance of mental strength and not giving up after failure.
Also Read : UPSC Without Coaching – Real Self-Study Strategies That Work
UPSC 2024 Toppers Proving Self-Study Works
Smit Panchal is not the only example. Every year, many candidates from simple backgrounds prove that you can crack UPSC without coaching, with the right plan and hard work.
His story is now inspiring thousands of UPSC aspirants, especially those who cannot afford Delhi’s coaching fees.
Final Takeaway: Your Background Doesn’t Define Your Rank
Smit’s journey from a blacksmith’s son to UPSC AIR 30 is a reminder that your financial condition or city doesn’t decide your future. What matters is:
- Focused preparation
- Smart strategy
- Practice and revision
- Confidence in self-study
Whether you live in a small town or a metro, UPSC is crackable without coaching if you stay dedicated and consistent.