Edtech unicorn PhysicsWallah (PW) has expanded its presence in the competitive exam preparation sector by acquiring a 40% stake in Sarrthi IAS, a Delhi-based civil services coaching institute, at a valuation of ₹250 crore.
The deal marks PW’s deeper entry into the UPSC coaching market, one of India’s fastest-growing test prep categories.
Why this matters
- Strong UPSC presence: Sarrthi IAS is known for its mentorship-driven approach and has built a reputation among civil service aspirants.
- PW’s growth strategy: With this investment, PW aims to combine its affordable digital learning model with Sarrthi’s personalised guidance, giving UPSC aspirants the best of both worlds.
- Market expansion: UPSC test prep is expected to reach ₹10,000 crore+ in the coming years, making this move a big opportunity.
Statements from both sides
- Alakh Pandey, Founder & CEO of PhysicsWallah, said the investment will help PW “make UPSC coaching more affordable and accessible while maintaining quality.”
- Sarrthi IAS founders welcomed the deal, saying it would allow them to scale faster with technology-driven solutions and reach aspirants across India.
The bigger picture
PhysicsWallah, valued at over $1 billion, has been actively acquiring and partnering with coaching institutes across segments. The edtech giant already has a strong presence in JEE, NEET, and state-level exams, and this move strengthens its foothold in the UPSC ecosystem.
Summary Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Company Acquiring | PhysicsWallah (PW) |
| Stake Acquired | 40% |
| Target Company | Sarrthi IAS |
| Valuation | ₹250 crore |
| Sector | UPSC Coaching / Edtech |
| Deal Objective | Expansion into UPSC test prep |
| Benefit | Combines PW’s digital learning with Sarrthi’s mentorship |
| PhysicsWallah’s Current Focus | JEE, NEET, State exams, now UPSC |
