Indore’s Akshat Baldwa secures AIR 173 in first attempt

Indore: Twenty-five-year-old visually impaired Akshat Baldwa from Indore secured All India Rank 173 in Civil Services Examination in his very first attempt.A resident of Loharpatti area, Akshat completed his Class 11 and 12 studies in Hindi medium at govt Subhash Higher Secondary School. Despite his Hindi medium background, he chose to write both preliminary and mains examinations in English."My schooling was in Hindi medium, but I later focused on improving my English. Language should not become a barrier in pursuing one's goals," Akshat told TOI.His academic journey began at Juni Indore Seva Mandir and later at Hansdas Math on Aerodrome Road. Without enrolling in any coaching institute, he relied mainly on online resources and self-study to prepare for the examination. In his first attempt, he successfully cleared all three stages of the civil services examination.Currently in Bengaluru, Akshat earlier cleared CAT and enrolled in a BBA LLB (Honours) programme there. While studying in fifth semester of the course, he decided to attempt the civil services examination.Akshat said the mains examination proved to be the most demanding stage. "Writing answers continuously for nearly four hours during the mains exam was challenging, but I remained focused," he said.He credited his parents, Sanjay Baldwa and Meena Baldwa, for their constant encouragement. "Despite being blind, I never allowed it to become my weakness. With hard work, determination and my family's support, I was able to achieve this rank," he said.