Niyanshi Goletar, a 7th grade student at Shri Narsinhrao Primary School in Surat, Gujarat, has a dream that shines brightly in her heart. Despite her young age, she is driven by a sense of purpose. “I want to become an IAS officer,” she says. With this aspiration, she wishes to make a lasting difference in her community and country. For Niyanshi, this ambition is not just a career choice; it’s a calling to serve others, develop her nation, and create opportunities for those who need them the most. 

Niyanshi lives with her parents and a sibling in Surat. Speaking of her family, Niyanshi says, “My father works in a diamond manufacturing factory. My mother is a homemaker. I have a younger brother who is studying in 3rd grade at a different school.” Despite the challenges that come with their busy schedules, her parents have always supported her dreams and encouraged her to pursue her education wholeheartedly. Niyanshi and her brother share a bond that’s filled with care and mutual encouragement. 

For Niyanshi, the path to becoming an IAS officer began when she watched a video of Srushti IAS, a prominent role model for many aspiring officers. “When I saw her video for the first time, I knew that this is what I wanted to do,” says Niyanshi. Srushti IAS inspired Niyanshi to set her sights on a future where she could not only serve in a prestigious position but also actively contribute to the development of the nation. “I want to help people, feed those who live on the streets, and create a strong and prosperous country,” she adds, her words reflecting the compassion and determination that define her character. 

Niyanshi's vision for her future is about more than just personal success; it’s about uplifting the community. She says, “The school in our area is very small. It has limited classes and is Gujarati Medium.” She dreams of expanding and transforming into an English medium school once she becomes an IAS officer. Her goal is to provide free education to children who are unable to access quality learning due to financial constraints. “I want to make sure that every child gets educated and build a better future for themselves,” she says with conviction. Her belief in the power of education as a tool for change is a driving force behind her aspirations. 

Every day, Niyanshi walks into her classroom with determination. She is focused not only on her academic goals but also on her future role as a public servant. Her routine is a balance of school, household chores, and study time, but she makes it all work because she knows that every effort counts towards her ultimate goal. She often spends her evenings reading, staying up to date with the subjects she is passionate about, and learning from people who have walked the path she dreams of following. 

One of the things that fuel Niyanshi’s journey is the hot, tasty and nutritious mid-day meal she receives from Akshaya Patra. “There is always something different every day,” she says, her face lighting up as she talks about the meals. “I like chana, churma, biscuits, and dal-rice,” she adds. The meals served by Akshaya Patra are an effort to implement the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan in government schools across India. These meals help students stay focused and energised throughout the school day. 

Akshaya Patra’s school feeding programme align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2 and 4), helping 2.25 million children like Niyanshi stay nourished and receive an education that will help them build a better future. Niyanshi looks forward to these meals, as they are not only nutritious but also varied, providing her with the energy she needs for both her studies and extracurricular activities. 

Niyanshi’s story is one of hope, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility towards others. With her clear goal of becoming an IAS officer, she envisions a future where she can help transform her community and serve her nation. Her journey has only just begun, but her dedication to helping others, along with the support she receives from her family and the Akshaya Patra Foundation, will continue to propel her forward.