Who is the youngest IAS officer in India?
Ansar Shaikh is widely recognized as one of India's youngest individuals to qualify for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
Ansar Shaikh: India's Youngest IAS Achiever
Ansar Shaikh achieved the remarkable feat of cracking the highly competitive Civil Services Examination (CSE) at the impressively young age of 21 years. His success story stands out, particularly given his challenging background and the immense dedication required to clear one of the toughest examinations in India. He secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 361 in the 2015 UPSC Civil Services Examination.
Key Aspects of Ansar Shaikh's Achievement
Ansar Shaikh's journey to becoming an IAS officer at such a tender age highlights his exceptional intellect, resilience, and unwavering focus.
- Age of Achievement: He cleared the exam when he was just 21 years old, making him one of the youngest successful candidates.
- Examination Difficulty: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) is globally recognized as one of the most rigorous and competitive recruitment processes. It requires extensive preparation and deep understanding across a wide range of subjects.
- Inspiring Background: Hailing from a modest background in Jalna, Maharashtra, his success story serves as a profound inspiration, demonstrating that perseverance can overcome significant obstacles.
Understanding the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)
The UPSC CSE is the gateway to recruitment for various prestigious Group 'A' and Group 'B' central civil services, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS).
| Examination Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Preliminary Exam | An initial screening stage consisting of two objective-type papers. Candidates must clear this to proceed to the Mains. |
| Main Exam | A comprehensive written examination comprising nine papers, including essays, general studies (covering topics from history, geography, economy, polity, science, and current affairs), and optional subjects chosen by the candidate. This stage assesses analytical ability, writing skills, and in-depth knowledge. |
| Personality Test | The final stage, an interview conducted by a board of experienced members. It evaluates a candidate's mental acumen, critical thinking, social traits, and general awareness, determining their suitability for public service. |
Each year, millions of aspirants apply, but only a small fraction successfully navigate all three stages to secure a coveted position in the civil services. Ansar Shaikh's early success underscores his remarkable ability to master this multifaceted and demanding process.
His remarkable achievement continues to motivate countless young individuals striving to contribute to public service in India. For more details on his journey, you can refer to various news reports like this one from India Today.
