In a remarkable journey of determination and courage, Ms. Zohra Banu has achieved a significant milestone, securing the 469th All India Rank (AIR) in the UPSC examinations. Hailing from the remote Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Ms. Banu’s educational foundation was laid at Ummat Public School before she pursued her Engineering in computer science at Andhra University. Transitioning from a successful corporate career to civil services, her decision to dedicate herself to UPSC preparation reflects her deep-seated commitment to serving society. Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, Ms. Banu’s creative spirit shines through her writing for children and active participation in beach cleaning drives, embodying her dedication to community service and environmental stewardship.
Sajida A Zubair, an educator, counselor, script-writer, voice-over artist and Radiance Correspondent for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, talks to Zohra Banu. Excerpts:
SZ: Could you elaborate on how your educational background and experiences in various institutions have influenced your personality and career choices?
ZB: Certainly. My educational journey has significantly shaped both my personality and career decisions. Teachers at school played a pivotal role in instilling patience and a strong work ethic within me. University life, despite its resource constraints, instilled in me resilience and the importance of leading a minimalist lifestyle. Interactions with high-achieving peers fueled my drive for excellence, and my corporate experience underscored the value of integrity over financial gain. While working in the corporate sector, I realized that monetary rewards were not my primary motivator. This realization prompted me to reassess my career trajectory, leading me to seek a path more aligned with my values and aspirations.
SZ: How did moving from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to a more competitive environment affect you and your academic approach?
ZB: Leaving the Andaman Islands, I felt disoriented and experienced a decline in my self-confidence due to the highly competitive environment. Initially, the level of mathematics presented a significant challenge for me. However, as humans, we adapt to situations. I embraced this challenge and realized that hard work was the only way forward. Although I wasn’t particularly a diligent student during my school years, relocating made me recognize that consistent hard work is the cornerstone of success.
SZ: What was the turning point that motivated you to pursue this path?
ZB: Pursuing the UPSC exams was not a childhood dream for me. I had no idea about the role of IAS officers and lacked exposure to it. However, while working in the corporate sector, my roommate was preparing for the UPSC exams. Witnessing her interest and dedication sparked my curiosity, and as someone who craves knowledge, I made the bold decision to pursue these exams without much deliberation. It was an accidental but pleasant turn of events.
SZ: While financial stability and status are often the key factors motivating many individuals, what was your primary motivation behind pursuing the UPSC exams?
ZB: My motivation has always been to contribute to society. Even while working, I desired to be involved with an NGO. Money and status were never my driving factors. Although the corporate sector offers more financial stability, I wouldn’t have left it otherwise. However, I wanted to make a meaningful contribution to society. I believed that clearing the UPSC exams would not only enable me to serve society but also make a difference.
SZ: As a Muslim woman from Calicut in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, could you elaborate on the challenges you faced in pursuing your dreams, if any, and how your parents’ support played a crucial role in overcoming these challenges?
ZB: I acknowledge that various challenges arise along the path, but my parents provided immense support throughout my journey. Being from a minority group, there are often perceptions and stereotypes that create obstacles. However, I’ve come to realize that hard work, coupled with the right support and encouragement, are essential for achieving any goal. Despite belonging to a minority and being a girl, my parents consistently supported and encouraged me, emphasizing that the sky was the limit. They never succumbed to societal pressures, such as limiting education or early marriage. I feel fortunate to have never experienced discrimination at any point in my life.
SZ: Could you elaborate on the role of faith in your life? How has your relationship with the Creator helped you navigate challenges and setbacks?
ZB: Faith, to me, is a personal relationship between oneself and one’s creator. My journey was particularly challenging, especially considering it was my last attempt. There were times when I stumbled and felt exhausted. During those moments, connecting with a Higher power provided me with an outlet to express myself without fear of judgment or criticism. My parents always taught me the importance of maintaining this connection and encouraged me to share my grievances and pains with the Almighty. This connection brings calmness and composure to the heart and mind, preventing despair. It has been instrumental in dissolving my depression and pain. My faith has been a strong pillar throughout my academic and UPSC journey, enabling me to face failures with hopefulness.
SZ: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a diverse community, and you are from the Moplah community. Growing up in such a multicultural society, how do you believe this diverse cultural background has benefited you in the past, and how do you anticipate it will aid you in your future service?
ZB: Since my childhood, I have been exposed to the diverse cultural landscape of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. I had friends from all religions and have been immersed in the rich culture and heritage that my country represents. These islands serve as exemplary models of how diverse communities can coexist in peace and harmony. This exposure has had a profoundly positive impact on my personality. Growing up among people of different faiths and religions has equipped me with the ability to understand and relate to individuals from various backgrounds. With this PAN India exposure from a very young age, I am confident that regardless of where I am posted in the country, I will feel comfortable in understanding the people around me and providing the best services to the best of my capabilities.
SZ: In the current socio-political scenario, how do you plan to advocate for the rights and interests of the people of India, especially marginalized communities?
ZB: In the current socio-political climate, the rights and interests of children, women, and tribals are of utmost importance to me. I am deeply concerned about the well-being of these vulnerable groups. Given the opportunity, I would wholeheartedly contribute and dedicate myself to their welfare. I would consider myself successful if I could bring about positive change in their lives.
SZ: What initiatives would you undertake for the islanders if given the opportunity?
ZB: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as we know, are isolated from mainland India and are home to a diverse set of communities and classes. As administrators, it is our responsibility to provide basic civic amenities. However, if given the chance, I would aim to create a platform for addressing the grievances of the tribal communities without causing cultural shock. Achieving positive outcomes for the tribal communities would be an honor for me. Additionally, I am committed to enhancing the visibility of these islands on the global stage.
SZ: Despite the exposure to social media and global connectivity, today’s youth, especially in the islands, are more aware. What advice would you give to youth aspiring to pursue the UPSC examinations?
ZB: I would advise UPSC aspirants that when I began, I had zero exposure and there was little awareness regarding UPSC. However, today, thanks to social media platforms, the scenario has changed. If reels, videos, and posts on social media are your sole motivation for aspiring for UPSC, then I am afraid many won’t succeed. Both external and internal motivation cannot be sustained for a long period. In my opinion, what sustains you through these examinations is discipline. If you can commit to studying a minimum of 8 hours every day, then you can give it a try. It provides you with unparalleled knowledge exposure.
SZ: As a final question, what message would you like to convey to our readers?
ZB: I would like to address the readers of Radiance Views weekly and express my heartfelt gratitude for the invaluable contributions of my parents. Coming from a humble background, I had no blueprint to follow. My parents faced numerous challenges and societal pressures when it came to supporting their daughter’s pursuit of higher education. With unwavering resilience, they navigated through all the questions and criticisms surrounding a girl child’s aspirations. They shielded me from negativity without succumbing to pressure. I urge all parents to recognize and nurture the potential of their children, rather than conforming to societal pressures or herd mentality.