They say that those who work with determination find success eventually. This is the tale of Hemant Pareek, a farmer's son from Rajasthan, whose mother worked as a laborer under the MGNREGA scheme, and whose father was a farmer. Their family faced economic hardships, with Hemant's mother often receiving less than the promised 200 rupees for her labor — sometimes just 60 or 80 rupees. One day, his mother shared her pain with Hemant. When he questioned the authorities, someone asked if he was a collector. That day, Hemant, unfamiliar with the term 'collector,' decided to become one after graduation. Here's his inspiring journey in his own words...
Source: aajtak
Humble Beginnings
My name is Hemant, born into a laborer family in Veeran village, Bhadra Tehsil, Hanumangarh District, Rajasthan. My mother worked under MGNREGA, and my father did some religious rituals. I completed my 10th grade at Maharshi Dayanand School in Hindi medium, scoring 60%. I pursued 12th grade in Agriculture at Arya Samaj School, Chhanni Bari, also in Hindi medium, and scored 70%. I failed JET initially, but later passed. However, lacking initial fees, I had to give up the seat. Advised to pursue a JBT Diploma and become a teacher, I joined but failed in English during my first year.
Source: aajtak
Overcoming Language Barriers
The following year, I filled out the ICAR form alongside preparing for JBT 2nd year. Although my ICAR exam was initially unsuccessful, the tests were rescheduled. I decided to learn English in secret, and within four months improved significantly. I eventually cleared the ICAR exam and got admission into Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner Jaipur, transitioning my studies from Hindi to English.
Source: aajtak
Facing Taunts During Quest for Justice
A memorable incident was when my mother confided in me about being paid a mere 50-60 rupees against the government's commitment of 220 rupees. On confronting the authorities, I was dismissed with a sneer, 'Are you a collector?' This filled me with determination. When asked about career aspirations by seniors during college ragging, I declared my goal to become an IAS officer — to everyone's amusement. Despite their laughter, I called my brother to learn more about IAS, setting the wheels of my ambition into motion.
Source: aajtak
Determination Amid Economic Struggle
With my mother working as a laborer, financial constraints were daunting. Despite passing the JET exam, I couldn't afford the admission fee. Surviving 4 years at Jaipur college without adequate funds or scholarships was challenging. Fortunately, help came from friends and seniors, covering my fees when I was on the brink of dropping out. Graduating, I was torn between taking a modest job or pursuing my IAS dream. With only 1400 rupees, I contacted my father, who hinted at selling our home for my education if needed. Inspired by his sacrifice, I boarded a bus to Delhi, aided by my friend Jogendra Siaag.
Source: aajtak
Supported by Friends and Family
Upon reaching Delhi, seeking support from Nishant Singh (Level Up IAS), I candidly shared my financial constraints, requesting an unpaid admission, promising future repayment. Sympathetic to my resolve, he granted me entry into sociology classes. Successfully passing the preliminary exam was a morale booster. After continuous hard work and guided preparation, I faced the interview, securing the 884th rank in the 2023 UPSC after my second attempt. My journey underscores that no goal is too daunting; only the courage to pursue it should be vast and unwavering.
