Harshita: The Second Highest Scorer in UPSC 2024

DELHI: Harshita Goyal, who secured All India Rank 2 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, has crafted a unique path that blends academic excellence, a deep-rooted desire to serve, and a genuine understanding of community. As a Chartered Accountant and MS University of Baroda graduate, Harshita embodies qualities of dedication, discipline, and empathy, with a vision to make a lasting impact at the grassroots level.

From a Dreamer To an Achiever

Born in Haryana and lived her entire life in Gujarat. The vibrant city of Diamonds played a significant role in shaping her career. Having completed her schooling in Gujarat and pursued a B.COM degree from the University of Baroda. She had dreamt of bringing about a change in the society. Having observed the challenges faced by women up close, she developed a strong resolve to become a voice for the unheard and a catalyst for empowerment.
For Harshita, the ultimate goal was always to influence policies that could bring about real change and to bring a smile to her father’s face by fulfilling her dream of becoming a responsible citizen and a caregiver to those in need.

Tips From the Topper Herself

Harshita outlined the main ideas that contributed to her achievement. She emphasized the value of dedicated study sessions, regularity, and creating a study strategy that works for each individual’s preferred learning style. Above all, she emphasized the importance of self-belief as a motivating factor during the trip.
The achiever also discussed the constructive use of social media, pointing out that she followed useful and educational Instagram sites, demonstrating how even recreational platforms can be effective learning tools when utilized properly.

Early Exposure to Governance and Social Impact

Even before stepping into the civil services, Harshita had already engaged with governance at a practical level. Her participation in the Gujarat Youth Parliament and her association with the Ministry of Law and Justice provided invaluable insights into legal systems and the policy-making process. This exposure solidified her resolve to serve the public at scale and implement meaningful change.
At the same time, her dedication to social causes became evident through her work with the Believe Foundation, an NGO that helps support thalassemia and cancer patients. Through her volunteer work, Harshita became deeply attuned to the realities of public health, social welfare, and the human side of policy. This direct interaction with vulnerable communities gave her a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by everyday citizens—something she carries into her vision for future governance.
Despite her intense focus on academics and public service, Harshita nurtures a creative side. Acrylic painting has been her chosen form of self-expression, a way to bring balance and serenity to her life. For her, painting is not just a hobby; it’s a way of expressing herself, reflecting on her experiences, and embracing her emotional intelligence. Harshita believes that creativity is an essential tool for any public leader, as it brings empathy and perspective into decision-making.

An Inspiration for the Women

Harshita’s commitment to women’s empowerment is personal. Having seen the barriers women face at various social and regional levels, she is determined to pave the way for a system where every woman—regardless of her background—has equal access to education, healthcare, and opportunities. She envisions a governance model that not only empowers women but also celebrates their role in shaping the future.
Her journey from an aspiring young woman to a top UPSC ranker sends a powerful message to other young women: Dream big, break the mold, and dare to create change. Harshita’s story proves that with hard work, perseverance, and a clear vision, it is possible to achieve greatness and inspire others along the way. Harshita Goyal’s journey is a reminder to every aspiring woman that with purpose, passion, and commitment, barriers can be broken, dreams can be realized, and lives can be transformed. She is not just a civil servant but an inspiration for generations to come.