Meet IIT alumni, who left high-paying job at Samsung, cracked UPSC exam, now posted as...

Kanishak Kataria is an example whose journey to becoming an IAS officer echoes deeply within the dreams and struggles of thousands of UPSC aspirants. It was the decision to give up a lucrative career for the ambition of serving the nation that speaks of his grit and determination.

Kanishak was born and brought up in Kota, Rajasthan. Kanishak's academic brilliance shone through from the very beginning. He was an all-rounder in his schooling at St. Paul's Senior Secondary School in Kota. Then, he secured an All India Rank of 44 in IIT-JEE 2010. As a result, he could get admission into IIT Bombay for B.Tech in Computer Science with a minor in applied statistics.

Kanishak's career started with an international platform by working as a data scientist with Samsung in South Korea. He later moved back to India to work for a promising American startup based in Bengaluru. Still, despite having a job that paid well and could ensure a secure future for him in the tech world, he felt something greater. Kanishak decided to quit his job and fully dedicate himself to preparing for the UPSC exam—a move many would find risky but one he believed in wholeheartedly.

Kanishak initially joined a coaching institute in Delhi for guidance. However, he soon returned to his hometown Kota and opted for self-study to sharpen his focus. Months of disciplined preparation paid off spectacularly in 2019 when Kanishak secured the coveted All India Rank 1 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination.

Today, being an IAS officer, Kanishak's story inspires countless aspirants by showing that the unwavering determination and sacrifices done can lead one to the most extraordinary achievement. And beyond academics and public service, Kanishak says he is enthusiastic about artificial intelligence a      nd also enjoys sports—a reminder even the most dedicated individuals make time for their interests.