Motivational Talk On UPSC Journey Held at PSGR Krishnammal College

The Departments of History, Economics and Botany of PSGR Krishnammal College for Women jointly organised a motivational talk titled “Resilience And Success: Lessons From My UPSC Journey” on the college campus on Thursday. The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. P. B. Harathi, Principal of PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, who expressed pride in welcoming back a distinguished alumna whose achievements have brought honour to the institution. The chief guest, Dr. Poonam Malakondaiah, IAS (Retd.), presently serving as Special Monitor for Education and Literacy at the National Human Rights Commission and former Special Chief Secretary to the Government of Andhra Pradesh, delivered an inspiring address. Recalling her journey as a student of the college, she shared how her early aspiration to become a doctor eventually led her to a fulfilling career in civil services. With an undergraduate degree in Botany from PSGR Krishnammal College and a postgraduate degree in Microbiology, Dr. Poonam cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in her first attempt in 1988, securing All India Rank 33. She highlighted key factors behind her success, including disciplined reading habits, regular writing practice, conceptual clarity and consistent tracking of current affairs. Emphasising the role of youth in nation-building, she encouraged students to explore research and civil services as meaningful career paths. She also urged them to overcome social inhibitions, act with confidence in civic spaces and cultivate resilience, positivity and purpose.