Karnati Varun Reddy, securing the seventh position in the UPSC 2018, exemplifies determination and perseverance. Hailing from Miryalaguda, Telangana, Varun, driven by his father’s dream, achieved his IAS goal despite facing setbacks, emphasizing his resilience and dedication to public service.

Academic Journey and Graduation from IIT Bombay
Varun, originally planning an MBA, altered his path after attaining the 29th rank in JEE and securing admission to IIT Bombay for Computer Science. This decision laid the foundation for his academic excellence, eventually contributing to his success in the UPSC exams.
Family Background and Support
Varun comes from a respected family in Telangana, with his father, Dr. Janardhan Reddy, an Ophthalmologist, and his mother, P Nagamani, serving as the Agriculture Department’s additional director. The family’s unwavering support, particularly during Varun’s multiple attempts at UPSC, reflects the strength of their bond.
UPSC Marks and Optional Subject
Varun’s UPSC marks showcase his dedication, with a total of 1067 out of 2025. Opting for Mathematics as his optional subject, he scored 178 and 146 in papers I and II, respectively. His journey saw initial setbacks, ranking 166th and 225th in his second and third attempts, but his resilience led him to secure the seventh position in the nation.
Current Role and Posting
Currently serving as an Associate Commissioner with the Income Tax Department, Varun is undergoing Indian Revenue Services (IRS) training in Nagpur. His commitment to public service is evident in his role, contributing to the nation’s financial landscape.
Preparation Strategy and Advice
Varun emphasizes understanding the exam’s concept and nature, thorough syllabus coverage, and meticulous preparation for UPSC CSE. For Prelims, he advocates regular practice with mock tests and MCQs. In the mains, he advises aspirants to rely on limited resources, daily revision, and practicing previous years’ papers. Varun’s strategy also includes regular breaks for enhanced focus and concentration.
Varun’s Handwritten Notes and Guiding Aspirants
For those seeking Varun’s UPSC handwritten notes, Guide2Success offers guidance on acquiring these valuable resources. Varun believes in the power of regular practice, hard work, and maintaining focus to overcome challenges and achieve one’s goals. His success story serves as an inspiration for aspiring civil servants, emphasizing the importance of resilience and strategic preparation.