Haryana native Pooja Yadav has become a significant figure of inspiration, having been selected as an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer after successfully acing the UPSC examination in 2018. Her story is a remarkable testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the driven desire to serve one’s nation. Pooja’s journey from being a receptionist to an IPS officer in the prestigious Gujarat cadre is nothing short of extraordinary.
Pooja Yadav was born on September 20, 1988, in Haryana, where she also completed her early education. A bright and dedicated student, she pursued her higher studies in M.Tech, specializing in Biotechnology and Food Technology. Post-graduation, Pooja seized the opportunity to work abroad, gaining experience in both Germany and Canada. Though this international exposure was invaluable, it came with a realization that was soon to alter the trajectory of her life.
While working overseas, Pooja felt a growing unease stemming from the fact that her contributions were aiding the development of another country rather than India, her homeland. This contemplation led her to make a monumental decision—she resigned from her position abroad and returned to India with a set goal in mind: to crack the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination and serve her country.
Transitioning back to life in India and embarking on the rigorous path of UPSC preparation presented a host of challenges for Pooja. Despite the competitive nature of the exam, she remained steadfast in her commitment. During her preparation period, she faced significant financial constraints. To support herself, Pooja worked various part-time jobs, taking on roles that ranged from tutoring children to occasionally working as a receptionist. Her relentless perseverance and hard work paid off when she passed the UPSC civil services examination on her second attempt in 2018, securing an impressive All India Rank of 174.
Following her qualification, Pooja Yadav was appointed as an IPS officer and allotted to the Gujarat cadre, a role she has embraced with dedication and pride.
. Her success story is particularly inspiring given the socioeconomic backdrop against which it unfolded. Throughout her academic and professional journey, Pooja’s family stood by her, providing unwavering support even when their financial situation was not particularly strong. Their encouragement was a significant pillar helping her to surmount various hurdles.
In a heartwarming development in her personal life, on February 18, 2021, Pooja Yadav married IAS officer Vikalp Bhardwaj. The two had met during their training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie, a premier training institute for civil services in India. Vikalp Bhardwaj, a 2016 batch IAS officer from the Kerala cadre, shares Pooja’s passion and commitment to public service, making their union a testament to their shared values and aspirations.
Pooja Yadav is also a prominent figure on social media, with a follower count exceeding 73.8k on Instagram. She uses this platform actively to engage with the public, sharing insights and exchanging ideas, which she believes amplifies the impact of her work. In a recent interview, she highlighted the importance of social media as a powerful tool for public engagement and advocacy, enabling her to connect more effectively with the people she serves.
Pooja’s journey from a receptionist to an IPS officer serves as an inspiring model for many young aspirants. It underscores the importance of resilience, dedication, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams, irrespective of the obstacles encountered along the way. Her story exemplifies that with determination and hard work, achieving seemingly impossible goals is well within reach.
Pooja Yadav’s life and career embody a deep-seated passion for service and commitment to her nation, demonstrating that with the right mix of perseverance and support, one can achieve extraordinary success. As she continues her work as an IPS officer, Pooja remains a beacon of hope and inspiration, not just for those preparing for competitive exams, but for anyone facing challenges in pursuit of their ambitions.
