In a heartwarming story of grit and ambition, 27-year-old Birdev Siddhappa Dhone, once a goat herder in Karnataka, has carved his name into the prestigious UPSC success list by securing an All India Rank of 551. Hailing from a modest background, Dhone’s story is a testament to what relentless determination and resilience can achieve.
Growing up in the village of Yamage in Maharashtra’s Kolhapur district, Birdev comes from the Dhangar community, known for their deep-rooted pastoral traditions. His family survives on just one acre of land and earns a living through sheep and goat herding. Despite these humble beginnings, Birdev never allowed his circumstances to limit his aspirations.
His early education took place in the local Zilla Parishad school, followed by higher secondary education at Jai Maharashtra High School in his village. He then pursued a degree in civil engineering from the College of Engineering, Pune, graduating in 2020.
After college, he briefly worked as a postman with India Post during 2020–21. However, his heart was set on public service. Trusting his instincts, Birdev made a courageous decision to quit his stable job and move to Delhi to fully dedicate himself to preparing for the UPSC exam. With limited resources, his journey would have been impossible without the support of a close friend who helped him financially.
On April 22, while tending to goats in Belgaum for his uncle, Birdev received the life-changing news—he had cleared the UPSC exam on his third attempt. True to his roots, the celebration was intimate and steeped in tradition: his uncle wrapped a yellow turban around his head and applied sacred turmeric on his forehead. A photograph of that moment went viral, symbolizing the emotional weight of his journey.
“I’ve always wanted to serve the people,” he shared. “I dream of becoming an IAS officer, but I’m also passionate about joining the Indian Police Service. I want to be someone who truly listens to the people.”
His elder brother, currently serving as a Naik in the Indian Army, and his entire family have been pillars of strength throughout his journey. Birdev’s story not only reflects the power of perseverance but also stands as a beacon of hope for countless others from rural India.
From grazing goats to preparing for the nation’s toughest exam, Birdev Dhone’s remarkable rise proves that dreams have no boundaries—only the will to pursue them.
