India, Sept. 24 -- Where are you originally from? Where were you born, and where did you receive your early education? What was your childhood like?

I am from Katari village in Amethi district. When I was born, it was part of Sultanpur district. I studied in the village itself until Class 12. I spent my childhood playing, roaming the fields, plucking mangoes and tamarinds, and eating corn and watermelons.

I completed my graduation and post-graduation first at Allahabad University and then at Jawaharlal Nehru University.

At what age did you realise that you should prepare for the civil services? Was the decision your own, or did someone advise you?

I was good at studies. My teachers were particularly fond of me. My father used to say t...