Anuj Agnihotri has secured All India Rank (AIR) 1 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025, marking a major milestone in his academic journey. The 25-year-old credited his mother as the driving force behind his motivation to pursue a career in public service.
"My mother has always been my inspiration to serve the people and bring changes in our surroundings," Hindustan Times quoted him as saying after the results were announced on Friday.
Also Read | Dera chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim acquitted in 2002 journalist murder case by Punjab and Haryana High Court
From MBBS to civil services
Anuj completed his MBBS from AIIMS Jodhpur, but his path towards civil services took shape gradually. Reflecting on the early years of his career, he said he initially did not have a clearly defined goal but was certain about his desire to contribute to society.
"Initially, I was not clear about my aim in life. But I was sure that I want to serve the people and make impact at the larger section of the society with my work," he said.
He began his MBBS in 2017 and during that period realised that administrative authority could help him create wider social impact.
"…I realised that a person also needs some power to bring any change. I discussed with my parents and started preparation for the civil services. The day when I cleared my UTCS, I couldn't believe myself. I locked myself at the my room and cried for half an hour in joy," he said.
#WATCH | Chittorgarh, Rajasthan: On securing first rank in UPSC civil services final result 2025, Anuj Agnihotri says, "I'm feeling good. I gave my first attempt for the UPSC CSE in 2023. I started preparing during my internship in 2022, and it's 2026 now, so obviously, it's been… pic.twitter.com/OqmKefEQwm
— ANI (@ANI) March 6, 2026
Discipline and self-study
Before topping the UPSC examination, Anuj had already cleared the Union Territories Civil Services (UTCS) examination in his first attempt in 2023. He is currently undergoing probation and serving as a Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Delhi.
Even while undergoing training, he continued preparing for the UPSC examination and eventually secured the top rank in his third attempt.
Also Read | Vehicles burnt, roads blocked: Tensions flare in Uttam Nagar after man beaten to death during Holi
Anuj prepared for the examination through self-study and did not rely on coaching classes. His father, Krishna Bihari, shared details of his preparation and expressed pride in his achievement.
"It was his third attempt. He has never consulted with any coaching centre. It's all about his own hard work and dedication. He used to study for around 13 hours daily. We are proud of our son today. I am sure that he will be one of the best IAS officers in the country," said Anuj's father Krishna Bihari, who works as a technician at the Rajasthan Atomic Power Station.
