The enchanting odyssey from humble beginnings to the corridors of power is a tale woven with resilience, determination, and a touch of magic. It often starts in the unassuming corners of ordinary lives, where dreams germinate in the fertile soil of ambition. The journey unfolds as a magical tapestry, where individuals, armed with nothing but grit and aspiration, embark on a quest for greatness. Each step, though seemingly small, carries the weight of ambition, propelling the dreamer through challenges and triumphs alike. The magic lies not only in the destination—the corridors of power—but in the transformative journey itself. It is a metamorphosis from the ordinary to the extraordinary, where one transcends the limitations of their origins and emerges as a force to be reckoned with. This story, repeated in various forms throughout history, celebrates the indomitable spirit that turns humble beginnings into a symphony of success echoing through the hallowed halls of power.
Highlights
- Ajay Kumar Gautam became an IAS officer by passing the UPSC CSE 2020 in his second try.
- He first cleared the exam in his initial attempt and became an IPS officer.
- Right now, he works as a Joint Magistrate in Kanpur Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Ajay Kumar Gautam, an IAS officer from a distant village, overcame challenges to graduate from IIT Kanpur. Motivated by a goal to serve society, he pursued his dream of entering Civil Services. He first became an IPS officer and later fulfilled his ambition of becoming an IAS officer. His inspiring journey, marked by determination and resilience, guides aspiring civil servants and showcases the transformative power of dreams.
In a conversation with Indian Masterminds, Mr. Gautam, a 2020-batch IAS officer currently working as Joint Magistrate in Kanpur Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, shared his experience with the Civil Services Examination.
Coming from a village with limited resources, Mr. Gautam’s early life showcased the strength of determination and aspirations. Despite the challenges in his village, he pursued education and excelled, earning admission to the esteemed IIT Kanpur for his undergraduate studies. In his third year at IIT, he contemplated his future career, combining his rural background with a top-notch education.
Driven by a vision to contribute meaningfully to society, Mr. Gautam aimed for a career in Civil Services—a profession renowned for its certainty, respect, and the ability to bring about positive changes. The dream of becoming an IAS officer, the pinnacle of civil services, fueled his ambition. Even after successfully passing the Civil Services Examination (CSE) and securing a position as an IPS officer, his unwavering dedication led him to take a break from work to prepare once again and attempt the CSE anew.
CELEBRATION
In 2008, Kasganj district witnessed a historic moment as Mr. Gautam became the first person from his village to achieve the esteemed position of an IAS officer. In a village where grand aspirations are uncommon, merely securing a job is a cause for celebration. The officer noted, “In my village, it’s a moment of celebration if someone becomes a constable or assistant teacher.”
The happiness stemming from his accomplishment extended beyond his family, resonating throughout the village and sparking hope and ambition among its residents.
Reflecting on his journey, he expressed to Indian Masterminds, “My transition from humble beginnings to the halls of power is truly magical.” His time at IIT Kanpur played a pivotal role, nurturing a newfound confidence that became the foundation of his extraordinary journey.
STRATEGY
His approach to the Civil Services Examination was well-thought-out. He traveled to Delhi for coaching and chose sociology as his optional subject. From 2017 to 2018, he consistently dedicated himself to preparing for the UPSC CSE examination. “Living in Delhi had its challenges, but one must keep progressing,” the officer remarked.
During the mains examination, he gained valuable insights from videos and written works of previous toppers, thoroughly studying their strategies.
INTERVIEW
During the interview round, he sought advice on the essential qualities of a civil servant, qualities he worked on developing within himself. His initial interview was conducted in Hindi, resulting in his selection as an IPS officer. In his second attempt, he transitioned to English for the interview, a venture he prepared for diligently, even practicing in front of a mirror for two months.
WISE WORDS
Looking back on his journey, Mr. Gautam shares valuable guidance for the younger generation. He emphasizes the significance of maintaining a positive mindset, giving their best, and avoiding excessive mental stress. His story stands as a source of hope for all those aspiring to serve the nation through the Civil Services, showing that with determination, dreams can truly become a reality.
Inspiring UPSC Stories (part) 4 FAQS
1. Who is Ajay Kumar Gautam?
Ajay Kumar Gautam is an IAS officer who secured success in the UPSC CSE 2020 on his second attempt.
2. What were his previous achievements in UPSC exams?
He initially cleared the UPSC exam in his first attempt, becoming an IPS officer before later achieving the rank of IAS.
3. Where is Ajay Kumar Gautam currently posted?
Ajay Kumar Gautam is currently serving as Joint Magistrate in Kanpur Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
4. What is the background of Ajay Kumar Gautam?
Ajay Kumar Gautam hails from a remote village and overcame challenges to graduate from IIT Kanpur.
5. What motivated him to join Civil Services?
Driven by a vision to contribute meaningfully to society, he aspired to join Civil Services for its assurance, dignity, and the power to bring positive changes.
6. How did his rural background and education combine for his career goals?
He combined his rural roots with a top-notch education, contemplating his future career during his third year at IIT.
7. What was his approach to the Civil Services Examination?
Ajay Kumar Gautam went to Delhi for coaching, chose sociology as his optional subject, and dedicated himself to consistent preparation from 2017 to 2018.
8. What was his strategy during the interview round?
During the interview, he sought advice on the essential qualities of a civil servant, transitioning to English for the interview in his second attempt.
9. What does Ajay Kumar Gautam’s journey represent for his village?
His achievement as an IAS officer marked a historic moment for his village, inspiring hope and celebration where grand aspirations are uncommon.
10. What advice does Ajay Kumar Gautam offer to the younger generation?
He emphasizes maintaining a positive mindset, giving their best, and avoiding excessive mental stress. His story serves as a source of hope for aspiring Civil Services candidates.
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