A Journey of Perseverance and Purpose
In the realm of India’s civil services, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of Pradeep Singh IAS. Securing All India Rank 1 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2019, his journey from a humble village in Haryana to the esteemed Indian Administrative Service is a testament to unwavering determination, strategic preparation, and an unyielding commitment to public service.
Early Life and Educational Background
Born in 1990 in Tewri village, Sonipat district, Haryana, Pradeep hails from a modest farming family. His father, Sukhbir Singh, served as the village Sarpanch, instilling in Pradeep a sense of responsibility and leadership from an early age. His mother, Sheela Devi, is a homemaker.
Pradeep’s educational journey began in a government school in his village. Recognizing the importance of quality education, his family moved to Sonipat city, where he completed his schooling at Shambhu Dayal Modern School. He pursued Computer Science Engineering at Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and Technology (DCRUST), Murthal, graduating in 2012.
Professional Experience and Turning Point
After graduation, Pradeep cleared the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) exam and joined the Income Tax Department as an Inspector in Delhi in 2015. Balancing a full-time job with UPSC preparation was challenging, but his determination never wavered.
In his third attempt in 2018, he secured Rank 260 and was allocated to the Indian Revenue Service (IRS). However, his aspiration to serve as an IAS officer kept him motivated. While undergoing training at the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics (NACIN) in Faridabad, he appeared for his fourth attempt and achieved All India Rank 1 in 2019.
UPSC Journey: Trials and Triumph
Pradeep’s path to success was marked by perseverance:
- 2016 (1st Attempt): Did not clear Prelims.
- 2017 (2nd Attempt): Did not clear Prelims.
- 2018 (3rd Attempt): Secured AIR 260, joined IRS.
- 2019 (4th Attempt): Secured AIR 1, joined IAS.
His journey underscores the importance of resilience and learning from past experiences.
Preparation Strategy
Subject Strategy
- Optional Subject: Public Administration
- Chosen for its relevance to civil services and availability of resources.
- Focused on understanding concepts and their practical applications.
Daily Study Routine
Balancing work and study, Pradeep utilized early mornings, lunch breaks, and weekends effectively. He emphasized quality over quantity, ensuring focused study sessions.
Mental Preparation
Facing multiple failures, Pradeep maintained a positive mindset. He credits his father for constant motivation, reminding him of the importance of self-belief and perseverance.
UPSC CSE 2019 Performance
Pradeep’s exceptional performance is reflected in his marks:
- Essay: 140/250
- General Studies I: 108/250
- General Studies II: 115/250
- General Studies III: 101/250
- General Studies IV: 157/250
- Optional Paper I (Public Administration): 148/250
- Optional Paper II (Public Administration): 145/250
- Interview: 158/275
- Total: 1072/2025 (52.9%)
Beyond Academics
Pradeep’s profile is enriched with diverse experiences:
- Community Engagement: Inspired by his father’s role as Sarpanch, he developed a deep understanding of rural issues.
- Professional Experience: His tenure in the Income Tax Department provided insights into governance and public administration.
Vision as an IAS Officer
Pradeep aspires to:
- Empower Rural Communities: Focus on education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
- Enhance Agricultural Practices: Introduce modern techniques and ensure fair pricing for farmers.
- Promote Transparent Governance: Implement policies that ensure accountability and efficiency.
Conclusion
Pradeep Singh’s journey underscores the power of perseverance, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment. His story serves as an inspiration for countless aspirants, proving that with dedication and resilience, achieving the pinnacle of success in the UPSC examination is attainable.
