‘UPSC-Prep Cult’: X User Calls Out IAS Officer Neha Byadwal’s No-Phone Policy

Last Updated:July 01, 2025, 10:56 IST

The X user appeared unimpressed with Neha Byadwal’s decision of giving up her mobile phone for three years and said such practices must be cancelled.

Neha Byadwal’s story of securing AIR 569 in the UPSC exams has been inspiring many on the internet. One of the most defining factors of her journey was the decision to completely give up her smartphone and social media for three years. The rare commitment not only helped her focus on her studies but actually took her all the way to securing an All India Rank of 569 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2021.

While the story was largely hailed online, with social media users impressed by Neha’s inner resolve and self-discipline, it seems like not everyone is on the same side.

In response to a tweet on Neha becoming India’s youngest IAS officer, an X user named Shalaka called out such preparation tactics. “This UPSC-prep cult needs to be dismantled & destroyed. Complete sociopaths with zero idea of how India runs outside of their 24*7 rote study room end up governing the public,” she wrote on X.

She further commented, “Bureaucracy har cheez ke liye OTP maangti hai… Imagine the privilege of not requiring a mobile phone for 3 years in today’s world.” As soon as the post was shared, many took to the comment section and voiced their divided reactions. As one countered Shalaka’s views and wrote, “Message is good, but you’re wrong here. They are very well aware of how the world functions.” She explained, “In theory, which has little to no value. Governance is all about real-time, on-the-ground practical stuff. This is why we end up with pathetic civic infrastructure.”

Another user stated that Neha Byadwal did not use her mobile phone for three years, but must have read the newspaper for current affairs. Unconvinced, Shalaka commented, “Are you kidding me? Indian governance runs on the basis of OTP! Har cheez ke liye mobile number link kar rakha hai. Have you forgotten how they did not let us enter any premises without showing the Arogya Setu app just a few years ago?”

On the contrary, a section of internet users supported her views and added comments like “So true. They get power and authority; it’s good for them, but what about the country?” and “UPSC candidates should have some experience also…like working in different sectors.”

Having cleared the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) exams multiple times, Neha never took up the government post but instead decided to self-study for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). With her parents’ support and a few changes in her habits, she was actually able to crack one of the toughest exams in India. At the age of 24, a young Neha was appointed to the IAS and is currently posted as a Joint Magistrate in Jalaun district, Uttar Pradesh.

Buzz Staff

A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.

A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.

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