In a world full of distractions, Neha Byadwal is proof that focus, perseverance, and discipline are unbeatable traits on the road to success. In 2021, at just 22 years old, she cracked one of the toughest exams in the world — the UPSC Civil Services Examination — securing All India Rank 569 and becoming one of India’s youngest IAS officers.
Born in Jaipur and raised in Chhattisgarh, Neha’s inspiration came from home — her father, a senior income tax officer, was her earliest role model. From a young age, she aspired to serve the country through the civil services.
But it wasn’t just talent that got her through. Neha made unbelievable sacrifices. She gave up her mobile phone for three full years, avoiding every possible distraction. “For me, UPSC was not just an exam. It was my dream,” she has said in interviews.
A college topper and SSC exam qualifier (multiple times), Neha chose not to settle. Despite clearing SSC exams, she didn’t take up any of the job offers. Her only goal was the UPSC CSE.
Neha’s achievement continues to inspire aspirants across India, especially young women dreaming big. She exemplifies the idea that one can be both grounded and ambitious, disciplined and compassionate, brilliant and beautiful.
📍 From Jaipur to Chhattisgarh to India’s Bureaucracy — IAS Neha Byadwal’s journey is one of grit and grace.
Indian Police Service officer Nidhin Valsan recently took to social media to share a touching memory from his past posting in Goa — a place he recalls with fondness and respect. For officers like him, each state or district becomes more than just a location; it becomes a vital chapter in their professional and personal journey.
“Every place I’m posted to becomes a part of my journey,” he wrote. “Each with its own challenges, learnings, and unforgettable moments. Duty may take us anywhere in our cadre, but the experiences and people we work with leave a lasting mark.”
Valsan’s message resonated with many from the civil services and beyond — a reflection of the dedication and emotional commitment that comes with a life of public service.
His time in Goa was marked by engaging with local communities, tackling unique regional challenges, and fostering relationships that endure beyond transfers and official tenure. Officers like Valsan play a crucial role in bridging governance with grassroots impact, and their experiences serve as a record of not just service, but also of shared growth with the people they serve.
Such reflections offer citizens a rare window into the lives behind the uniform — filled with discipline, sacrifice, but also deep connection with the regions they help protect and uplift.
As Valsan continues his journey in the IPS, his time in Goa remains etched as a meaningful and formative part of his service to the nation.
Month-Long Yoga Sessions Begin June 1 Across All Government Departments
In a bold and wellness-driven initiative, the Government of Goa has announced that participation in International Yoga Day on June 21 is now mandatory for all employees working in government departments, semi-government bodies, and public sector corporations. The announcement marks a significant shift in policy, as Yoga Day participation was previously optional.
This landmark decision was made following a high-level planning meeting chaired by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, who emphasized the importance of integrating wellness practices into the daily routines of public servants to promote healthier lifestyles and improve workplace productivity.
Starting June 1, 2025, all departments under the Government of Goa will hold daily yoga sessions with 100% employee participation expected. These sessions are part of a larger wellness campaign leading up to International Yoga Day on June 21.
Employees unable to attend official sessions must participate at a nearby venue—such as a temple, school, or community center—and are required to submit a photograph of their participation to their respective Heads of Departments for verification.
“It is compulsory for government employees to take part in International Yoga Day activities. If they cannot attend the official sessions, they must participate at a local venue and submit a photo as proof,” – Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant
In line with the Centre’s Mission Karmayogi, which focuses on transforming public service delivery through capacity building, the Goa government has also urged all employees to register on the iGOT Karmayogi portal. Officials are encouraged to enroll in the ‘Yoga at Workplace’ certificate course, available on the platform, to deepen their understanding of wellness in professional life.
As part of the wider campaign, yoga sessions will also be introduced in all government and higher secondary schools across the state starting June 4, coinciding with the beginning of the new academic year. The Department of Education will ensure that yoga becomes a routine morning activity for students and teachers alike, helping instill wellness habits early in life.
To ensure wide-scale participation, the state will host International Yoga Day celebrations at 30 different venues on June 21. These events will be coordinated by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs in collaboration with local bodies, yoga institutions, and civil society groups.
Chief Minister Dr. Sawant highlighted that this initiative is not merely a symbolic observance but a deliberate step toward building a healthier, more efficient, and stress-resilient workforce. He noted that the mental and physical benefits of yoga translate directly into improved focus, reduced absenteeism, and increased productivity in public offices.
“This initiative is not only beneficial for physical health but will also contribute to improved work efficiency,” – Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa
By mandating participation and embedding yoga into daily routines, Goa has become one of the first states in India to adopt such a comprehensive wellness model within the public sector. The initiative is expected to set a benchmark for other states looking to integrate health and mindfulness practices into their administrative frameworks.
