Youngest IAS Officer in India? Do you think who is the one and if not here is the complete story for you all to read about the story of determination and hard work.
The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is one of the most prestigious career paths in India, attracting aspirants from across the country.
Becoming an IAS officer is a dream for many, but it takes years of hard work, dedication, and the ability to clear one of the toughest exams in the world—the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
While many individuals take years to crack this exam, there have been exceptional cases where young minds achieve this feat at an impressively young age.
This article explores the journey of the youngest IAS officer in India, highlighting the dedication, challenges, and success that come with this remarkable achievement.
Who is the Youngest IAS Officer in India?
The title of the youngest IAS officer in India has been held by various candidates over the years, but one name that stands out in recent times is Ansar Shaikh, who cleared the UPSC Civil Services Exam at the tender age of 21 in 2016. His inspiring story of overcoming social and financial obstacles to reach this milestone is nothing short of incredible.
Early Life and Education of Ansar Shaikh
- Ansar Shaikh hails from a humble background in the Jalna district of Maharashtra.
- His father worked as an auto-rickshaw driver, while his mother was a farm laborer.
- Despite the financial struggles, Ansar was determined to pursue education and excel academically.
- He completed his schooling in Marathi medium and went on to study political science at the prestigious Fergusson College in Pune.
His academic journey wasn’t without its challenges. Balancing studies with the financial responsibilities of his family required immense dedication. However, Ansar never let these obstacles deter him from his ultimate goal of becoming the youngest IAS officer in India.
The Journey to Becoming the Youngest IAS Officer
The UPSC exam is known for its difficulty, with candidates often preparing for years before cracking it. In Ansar Shaikh’s case, he managed to clear the exam on his very first attempt. Here’s a brief overview of his journey:
- Ansar began preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Exam during his college years.
- He spent over a year in focused preparation, studying up to 12 hours a day.
- Shaikh enrolled in coaching classes but also relied heavily on self-study.
- His dedication paid off when he cleared the UPSC exam with an All-India Rank (AIR) of 361 in 2016.
At just 21 years old, Ansar became the youngest IAS officer in India, proving that with the right mindset and perseverance, age is no barrier to success. Source
Challenges Faced by Ansar Shaikh
Becoming the youngest IAS officer in India was no easy feat. Ansar faced a series of challenges throughout his journey:
- Financial Constraints: Coming from a low-income family, Ansar had limited resources. His father had to take loans to support his education and coaching fees.
- Social Barriers: Coming from a marginalized community, he faced social prejudice, but this only fueled his determination to succeed.
- Language Barriers: Ansar completed his schooling in Marathi, which posed a challenge when he had to switch to English for higher studies and the UPSC exams.
Despite these hurdles, his unwavering focus and strong willpower led him to accomplish his dream. Source
The Role of Family Support
While Ansar’s journey is a testament to individual dedication, the support of his family played an equally crucial role. His family, particularly his brother, stood by him throughout his preparation. Ansar’s elder brother dropped out of school to support the family financially, allowing Ansar to focus on his studies.
This level of familial sacrifice and support highlights an important aspect of success—the people who stand by you during challenging times.
Life After Becoming the Youngest IAS Officer in India
After clearing the UPSC exam, Ansar Shaikh was appointed to the West Bengal Cadre. As the youngest IAS officer in India, he took on numerous responsibilities in public administration. His work as a civil servant involves creating positive change at the grassroots level, handling critical government projects, and implementing policies aimed at improving the lives of the people in his assigned region.
Ansar’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and triumph against all odds. He is not only an inspiration for UPSC aspirants but also for anyone facing adversity in life.
Key Takeaways from Ansar Shaikh’s Journey
Here are a few lessons to learn from the journey of the youngest IAS officer in India:
- Dedication Pays Off: Even in the face of significant obstacles, sheer determination can help you achieve your goals.
- Support Systems Matter: Family and community support can provide the backbone to success.
- Age is Just a Number: Ansar’s story proves that age should not define what one can achieve.
- Self-Belief is Crucial: Ansar believed in his ability to clear the exam despite societal and personal challenges, and this self-belief played a key role in his success.
Summary!
The journey of the youngest IAS officer in India, Ansar Shaikh, is a shining example of what can be accomplished with determination, hard work, and the right mindset.
His story is an inspiration for all aspiring civil servants and young individuals who dream of achieving great things despite facing numerous obstacles.
His life serves as a reminder that no matter where you come from or how young you are.
Hope you found this article informative!