UPSC 2024: Punjab Candidates Make Their Mark
Introduction:
Four determined aspirants from Punjab—Sidaq Singh, Arushi, Jaskaran Singh, and Larson Singla—have successfully cleared the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2024. Their ranks (AIR 157, 184, 240, and 936) reflect hard work and determination. They come from Phagwara, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, and Hoshiarpur and have inspired many across the state.
1. Sidaq Singh | AIR 157
- From: Phagwara, Kapurthala district
- Education: St. Joseph’s Convent School, Phagwara; GNDU, Amritsar
- Attempts: Sixth
- Strategy: Started with coaching , continued prep from home post-pandemic; studied 12 hours daily
Story: Sidaq Singh’s UPSC journey is a lesson in patience and unshakable commitment. Born and raised in Phagwara, he studied at St. Joseph’s Convent School before moving on to complete his graduation from Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar. Like many UPSC aspirants, he first moved to Delhi, believing it to be the mecca of civil services preparation. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, plans changed.
Rather than pause or quit, Sidaq chose to adapt. Three times, he reached the interview stage but fell short of the final list—enough to demoralize most. But not Sidaq. This time, with a clear mind and a daily 12-hour study routine, he approached the exam with sharp focus and unshakeable belief.
His story is not just about hard work, but also about resilience in the face of repeated disappointment. He now advocates for spreading awareness about UPSC in Punjab, especially in tier-2 and rural areas, where career paths like civil services are still underrepresented.
2. Arushi | AIR 184
- From: Jalandhar
- Support: Coaching from district administration
Story: Arushi’s story is a shining example of how public systems can create real change. Coming from Jalandhar, she did not join expensive coaching centres in metros. Instead, she enrolled in a coaching program run by the district administration—a rare opportunity for serious aspirants from smaller cities.
This structured guidance gave her the roadmap she needed. With no frills, no distractions, and a deeply disciplined approach, she cracked UPSC on the back of determination and consistency. Her story proves that empowerment doesn’t always need elite setups—it needs access and intention. Arushi represents a growing trend in UPSC success: hometown preparation, public mentorship, and personal grit.
3. Jaskaran Singh | AIR 240
- From: Bhammadi village, near Khanna (Ludhiana)
- Education: Engineering from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh (2021)
- Past Rank: AIR 595, probation in IRS
- Family: Father – ASI, Mother – teacher, Grandfather – Army veteran
Story: The son of an Assistant Sub-Inspector in the Punjab Police and a schoolteacher mother, Jaskaran was raised in a home where discipline and service were values, not just words. Inspired by his grandfather, a retired Army man, he wanted to wear a uniform too—initially aiming for IPS.
After completing engineering from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh, he appeared for UPSC and made it into the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) with AIR 595. Most would’ve settled. But Jaskaran knew he had more in him. Taking a sabbatical from his IRS training, he went back to his village. With online coaching, a renewed focus, and a stronger strategy, he made it count.
His story is about ambition without complacency. About stepping back in order to leap forward. From IRS probation to IAS selection, Jaskaran’s story shows that satisfaction doesn’t always come with success—it comes with fulfilling your true goal.
4. Larson Singla | AIR 936
- From: Tehsildar in Hoshiarpur; native of Patran (Patiala)
- Education: BCom and MBA via distance mode
- Attempts: Sixth
- Career Path: PCS 2015 – Excise & Taxation Officer, then Tehsildar since 2020
Story: Growing up in Patran (Patiala), Larson faced two life-altering events just after completing Class 12: his mother was diagnosed with cancer, and his father met with a serious accident. Regular college became an impossibility. But Larson didn’t drop his dreams. Instead, he chose distance education and completed BCom and MBA—while holding his family together.
Despite personal struggles, Larson cleared the Punjab Civil Services (PCS) exam in 2015. He was appointed as an Excise and Taxation Officer and later earned promotion as a Tehsildar in 2020. But deep inside, the dream of clearing UPSC remained alive. After five failed attempts, he still showed up—for the sixth time—and cracked it.
His story is a reminder that life doesn’t always offer ideal conditions—but courage, consistency, and family support can carry you through. Larson’s name on the UPSC list is not just a personal victory—it’s a win for every aspirant who believes in second chances.
5. Dr. Gursimrat Singh | AIR 598
- From: Patiala, Punjab
- Education: MBBS
- Attempts: Cleared in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024
- Previous Allocations: DANICS, IRS
Story: Dr. Gursimrat Singh has achieved something extraordinary—clearing UPSC four years in a row. Already allocated prestigious services like DANICS and IRS, he kept appearing to improve his rank. His medical background didn’t stop him from mastering a generalist exam like UPSC. His success proves that consistency, discipline, and ambition can create a rare legacy in civil services.
These four success stories show that Punjab's youth are reaching new heights in civil services. With self-study, community support, and determination, these aspirants have set examples for others to follow.
