Shepherd’s Son to IPS: Birdev’s Grit Wins the Nation

From Grazing Sheep to the Indian Police Service: The Remarkable Journey of Birdev Done

Inspiring Rise of IPS Officer Birdev Siddhapa Don

“From walking goats in Bhavani Nagar, Belgaum, to walking into the prestigious Indian Police Service — Birdev Siddhapa Don’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Hailing from Yamge village in Kagal taluka of Kolhapur district, Maharashtra. Birdev battled poverty and countless challenges to secure an All India Rank of 551 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination.

His determination, resilience, and refusal to give up have turned him into a beacon of hope for aspirants across the nation. Today, his success brings immense pride to his village and stands as a powerful reminder that no dream is too distant when pursued with passion and perseverance.“

In a heartening tale of perseverance and grit, Birdev Done, the son of a shepherd from a small village in Kagal Taluka of Kolhapur district, maharashtra, has secured the 551st rank in the prestigious UPSC Civil Services Examination and earned a place in the Indian Police Service (IPS).

Coming from a humble background, Birdev faced numerous challenges growing up. Financial hardship was a constant companion, but his unwavering determination and sharp intellect carried him through.

A graduate of the College of Engineering, Pune (COEP), Birdev pursued Civil Engineering and was two years junior to Pranjal Chopde, the nephew of Dr. Rajendra Chopde from Jalochi village. Initially mocked by peers for his background, Birdev found comfort and support in Pranjal, who recognized him as a fellow member of the Dhangar community. The bond they formed proved to be life-changing.

Pranjal had himself cleared the UPSC Forest Services Examination two years ago and became a Forest Officer. Inspired by his friend’s journey, Birdev chose to follow the same path. Turning down stable job opportunities, he immersed himself in the demanding and uncertain world of civil services preparation. Another COEP student, Akshay Solankar, also stood by him during this time, offering consistent support.

Even as he awaited his UPSC results, Birdev remained grounded—literally. When the final list was released, it was Pranjal who discovered that Birdev had secured rank 551. Overjoyed, he called to congratulate his friend, only to learn that Birdev was out in the sun, grazing sheep.

“My father has been unwell. He had a kidney stone surgery two months ago. Since then, I’ve been managing things at home,” Birdev explained. The surgery had complications, and with limited financial means, Birdev had turned to Pranjal and another friend from Kolhapur, Ashish Patil—now an IAS officer—for help. Through Ashish’s network, the operation was arranged at a private medical college hospital, but his father’s health worsened afterward, forcing Birdev to shoulder additional responsibilities at home.

In another twist of fate, just days before the results, Birdev’s phone was stolen in Pune. When he approached the police to file a complaint, the officers initially showed reluctance. It was only with the help of friends in service training that the complaint was finally registered. The phone was never recovered, and Birdev was repeatedly met with the usual, “investigation is ongoing.”

The irony now stands tall—Birdev Done, once dismissed at a police station, will soon be donning the IPS uniform. His journey from the pastures of rural Maharashtra to the corridors of power is a testament to resilience, self-belief, and the quiet strength of those who never give up.

With the hardships he has overcome, Birdev is poised to serve the country with empathy, integrity, and a deep understanding of justice—shaped by his own lived experience.