Some stories don’t just inspire us; they remind us that no dream is too big when determination is strong.
Himanshu Gupta’s journey from helping his father at a small tea stall in Uttarakhand to cracking the UPSC Civil Services Exam three times is one such example. Today, he is not only an IAS officer but also part of an inspiring IPS & IAS couple, proving that humble beginnings can lead to extraordinary achievements.

A Childhood of Struggles and Strong Dreams

Himanshu Gupta grew up in Sitarganj, Uttarakhand, in a family where money was always tight. His father ran a roadside tea stall, and Himanshu often helped him. But even in those tough conditions, one thing never changed his love for studying.

He believed that education was the only way to change his life, and he held onto that belief tightly.

70 km Every Day Just to Attend School

Many students complain about going to school, but Himanshu’s reality was different.
He traveled 70 km daily just to attend classes.

Most people would have given up, but Himanshu didn’t.
That long journey shaped his discipline, patience, and fighting spirit. It also strengthened his dream of becoming a civil servant someday.

Higher Studies in Delhi and the Beginning of UPSC Prep

After completing his schooling, Himanshu moved to Delhi for higher education.
He completed his graduation from Hindu College, Delhi University, one of India’s top institutions.

Later, he pursued post-graduation from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).
During these years, he began preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination without coaching, without special resources, and without financial backing.

All he had was self-belief, consistency, and the desire to change his family’s life.

Self-Study, NCERTs, and a Focused Strategy

Himanshu’s preparation strategy was simple but powerful:

• First, he built his base using NCERT books
  
• Then he moved on to standard UPSC books
  
• He read newspapers and magazines every day
  
• He stayed updated with national and international news
  
• And most importantly, he studied consistently without distractions
  

His method proves that you don’t always need expensive coaching, you need a clear plan and honest effort.

Clearing UPSC Three Times: IRTS → IPS → IAS

His journey through UPSC is a story in itself.

 First Attempt – IRTS Officer

Himanshu cleared the UPSC on his very first try and was selected for the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS). For most people, this would have been enough, but not for Himanshu.

Second Attempt – Becomes an IPS Officer

Still aiming for something bigger, he took the exam again and secured a position in the Indian Police Service (IPS).

Third Attempt – Finally Achieves IAS

His dream was clear: he wanted to join the IAS.
In 2020, he attempted UPSC for the third time and secured AIR 139, finally becoming an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer.

This achievement wasn’t just his; it was a gift to the father who worked day and night at a tea stall so his son could study.

An Inspiring IPS–IAS Couple

Himanshu is married to IPS officer Shiva Singh, who secured AIR 309 in the UPSC exam.
Together, they represent discipline, hard work, and dedication to the nation.

Their story inspires thousands of young aspirants who dream of building a better future despite their struggles.

Key Lessons from Himanshu Gupta’s Journey

• Your background does not define your future
  
• Consistency matters more than resources
  
• A clear plan always beats random studying
  
• Failures are steps, not roadblocks
  
• Dreams grow stronger when supported by family and self-belief
  

A Story of Hope, Hard Work, and Unshakable Faith

From a tea stall to the Indian Administrative Service, Himanshu Gupta’s life is proof that nothing is impossible when you refuse to give up.
His journey continues to inspire every student who dreams of cracking the UPSC.

This is more than a success story.
It is a reminder that no dream is too big and no background is too small when you have courage, discipline, and faith in yourself.