Bengaluru doctor cracks UPSC 2025 with AIR 24. No coaching. But a special friendship and persistence

In an inspiring tale of perseverance and dedication, Dr R Rangamanju from Bengaluru has emerged as Karnataka’s state topper in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, securing an impressive All India Rank (AIR) 24. A qualified doctor, Rangamanju managed to crack one of India’s most competitive exams in his sixth attempt—and notably, without formal coaching for the preliminary or mains stages.

His father was his inspiration

An alumnus of National Public School, Rajajinagar, Rangamanju pursued his MBBS from Bengaluru Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI). His journey into civil services was fuelled by a personal calling. His late father, R Ramesh, a former IPS officer who passed away while still in service, remains Rangamanju’s greatest source of inspiration. His commitment to continuing a legacy of public service was further bolstered by the unwavering support of his mother, who stood by him through the years of preparation.

He cracked UPSC without formal coaching

Interestingly, AI tools also played an indirect role in his preparation journey. Despite not opting for traditional coaching, Rangamanju kept a disciplined approach. He chose anthropology as his optional subject and primarily relied on self-study and collaborative learning through group study sessions with close friends. While he did not receive structured coaching for the written stages, he did participate in a test series to simulate exam conditions and refine his answers. For the final interview round, he sought guidance from a private academy. He credited the structured feedback he received during the personality test preparation as a key contributor to his success.