The path to becoming a civil servant in India is often paved with years of relentless effort, countless failures, and unwavering determination. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, known as one of the toughest in the country, sees lakhs of aspirants each year, yet only a handful make it through. For many, it takes multiple attempts, intense coaching, and years of preparation. But then, there are stories like that of IAS Chandrajyoti Singh, an extraordinary individual who defied the odds, cleared the UPSC exam in her very first attempt, and secured an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 28 at the young age of 22.

Her story is not just about academic brilliance; it is about self-belief, perseverance, and the power of dedication.

Who is IAS Chandrajyoti Singh?

IAS Chandrajyoti Singh is a name that now inspires countless UPSC aspirants across the country. Hailing from a disciplined and service-oriented family, she always dreamed of making a difference. With her father, Colonel Dalbara Singh, and mother, Lt. Col Meena Singh, both serving in the Indian Army, the spirit of service was ingrained in her from an early age.

Despite the pressure and the daunting nature of the UPSC exam, Chandrajyoti proved that passion and hard work can triumph over any challenge. What sets her apart is not just her success, but the fact that she achieved it entirely through self-study, without any external coaching or professional guidance.

An Outstanding Academic Journey

Excellence has always been a part of Chandrajyoti Singh’s academic life. She completed her schooling at Jalandhar’s APJ School, where she consistently stood out as a top performer. With a perfect 10 CGPA in high school, she then moved to Chandigarh’s Bhavan Vidyalaya for her higher secondary education.

Her quest for knowledge led her to Delhi University’s prestigious St. Stephen’s College, where she pursued a dual degree in History and Political Science. Her choice of subjects played a crucial role in shaping her UPSC preparation, giving her an academic edge in understanding governance, policy-making, and historical perspectives.

Self-Made Success: Her UPSC Preparation

The journey to clearing the UPSC exam is often associated with expensive coaching centers and years of preparation. But Chandrajyoti Singh broke this stereotype. Instead of enrolling in coaching classes, she trusted her abilities and meticulously crafted her own study plan.

Her daily routine included 6-8 hours of dedicated study, gradually increasing to 10+ hours as the exam neared. She relied on newspapers, self-made notes, and extensive mock test practice to sharpen her analytical skills. Staying true to her disciplined background, she remained consistent, focused, and determined.

Her strategy was simple yet powerful, hard work, consistency, and a clear goal. And the results spoke for themselves.

The Road to Becoming an IAS Officer

In 2019, Chandrajyoti Singh appeared for the UPSC Civil Services Examination and emerged victorious on her first attempt, securing an AIR of 28. She then underwent rigorous training from August 2020 to October 2022 in Mussoorie before being posted as an Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs. Later, in October 2022, she joined the Government of Punjab as a Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Sultanpur Lodhi, beginning her journey in public service.

Lessons from Her Success

IAS Chandrajyoti Singh’s journey is a beacon of hope for aspirants who dream of cracking the UPSC exam but feel overwhelmed by the process. Her story teaches us:

• Self-Belief is Key: You don’t always need expensive coaching; a strong self-study plan and determination can lead to success.
• Consistency and Hard Work Pay Off: Sticking to a routine, staying disciplined, and pushing yourself every day makes a difference.
• A Clear Strategy is Crucial: Knowing what works best for you, setting realistic study goals, and following a well-thought-out plan can significantly impact your results.

Chandrajyoti’s Message to Aspirants

For those preparing for competitive exams, IAS Chandrajyoti Singh has a simple yet powerful message:

“Trust your strategy, work consistently, and success will follow. Focus on your goal, stay dedicated, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back.”

Her remarkable journey proves that no dream is too big if one has the courage, discipline, and perseverance to chase it. Her success is not just her own, it is an inspiration for every aspirant striving to make their mark in the world of civil services.

Final Thoughts

The story of IAS Chandrajyoti Singh is a testament to the power of self-belief and hard work. It serves as a reminder that with unwavering determination, even the most challenging dreams can turn into reality. Her journey encourages us all to aim high, work hard, and never stop believing in ourselves.

If you found her story inspiring, share it with someone who needs a dose of motivation today!