Behind every UPSC rank is a story of quiet struggle, long nights, and unshakable dreams. But when two sisters clear this prestigious exam together, on their first attempt, it becomes more than just a personal achievement—it becomes a tale of shared courage and unwavering sisterhood.

Meet Soumya and Sumegha Mishra, the Delhi-based duo who defied all odds to script one of the most touching success stories of the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2023.

Soumya Mishra: Strength in Service

Soumya was already serving as an SDM in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, when she decided to aim higher. Most would have settled with the comfort and respect of state services, but not Soumya. Her heart beat for impact at a national level, and despite a packed work schedule, she dared to dream again.

Each morning began before sunrise, each evening ended with books. Her role as SDM came with real-world challenges—public grievances, field visits, administrative pressure—but she never let her purpose fade. With fierce discipline and deep internal motivation, she prepared herself for the UPSC one chapter at a time.

Her dedication bore fruit when she secured All India Rank 18, making her not only an officer but also a beacon of inspiration for working professionals chasing a bigger vision.

Sumegha Mishra: Dreaming Alongside, Rising Together

While Soumya was navigating government service, Sumegha Mishra was quietly crafting her own journey. Inspired by her elder sister’s values and work ethic, Sumegha took up the UPSC challenge with the same fire.

She wasn’t just following a path—she was building her own. Hours of focused study, deep reading, writing practice, and the emotional highs and lows of this demanding exam didn’t shake her spirit. What fueled her was the silent promise she had made—to herself and her family.

With Soumya by her side as both mentor and motivator, Sumegha stayed the course. And when results were announced, she too stood tall, securing All India Rank 253. Together, they proved that success multiplies when shared.

Rooted in Values, Raised to Rise

Their story begins much before the exam halls—in a home where values, education, and quiet strength were the family legacy.

Their father, Raghvendra Mishra, a college lecturer, instilled discipline and a love for learning. Their mother, Renu Mishra, brought emotional balance and quiet encouragement. The sisters often speak fondly of their late grandfather, Iqbal Shankar Mishra, whose dream was to see them serve the country. Though he isn’t here today, his blessing echoes through every step they take.

Their grandmother, Indra Devi, still lives in their ancestral village and is now the proud matriarch of a family that has given India not one, but two civil servants.

More Than a Rank, It's a Relationship

What sets their story apart isn’t just the academic success—it’s the unspoken bond between them.

They were never competitors. They were co-dreamers. In the long preparation phase, when anxiety crept in or self-doubt knocked, they held each other up. Be it sharing notes, calming each other down, or just sitting in silence—every gesture became a pillar of strength.

Their story reminds us that sometimes, the best motivation doesn’t come from books or coaching centers—but from the person sitting next to you, believing in you unconditionally.

A Message to Every Dreamer

To every UPSC aspirant reading this: Don’t walk alone if you don’t have to. Find your tribe, your people, your reason. For Soumya and Sumegha, it was each other.

Today, they stand not just as officers, but as symbols of hope—for every daughter, every sister, and every small-town dreamer who’s ever been told “it’s too tough.”

It isn’t. Not when you have belief, discipline, and someone walking with you.