Daijiworld Media Network – Punjab
Punjab, Jun 7: At an age when most students are still trying to find their path, 21-year-old Aastha Singh made history by becoming one of the youngest IAS officers in the country. She cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024 with an All India Rank of 61 — achieving this feat in her very first attempt, without attending any coaching classes.
Born in Panchkula and currently residing in Zirakpur, Aastha’s inspiring journey is rooted in simplicity and determination. Her ancestral roots lie in Jaunpur district, Uttar Pradesh. Raised in a family that prioritized discipline and education, Aastha imbibed strong values early on. Her father, Brijesh Singh, works as the quality head at a pharmaceutical company, and the family has always placed education and ethics above all else.
After completing her schooling in Panchkula, Aastha pursued a degree in commerce and later earned a degree in economics from the prestigious Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), University of Delhi. Instead of taking a break or enrolling in coaching, Aastha returned home and began preparing on her own — relying solely on self-study, discipline, and a focused mindset.
Her strategy was simple yet effective. She eliminated distractions, stayed close to her family, and dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her studies. “I knew from early on that I wanted to work in public service. My grandfather used to say I would become a collector one day — that stayed with me,” Aastha said with a smile in an interview.
Before even attempting the UPSC exam, Aastha had already cleared the Haryana Public Service Commission exam in 2024, securing Rank 31 and being appointed as an Assistant Excise and Taxation Officer. Even while serving in that role, she quietly continued preparing for the UPSC.
What distinguishes Aastha’s story is not just her academic brilliance but also her grounded perspective. Confident and composed, she believes that civil servants must remain connected to the people and rooted in reality. She also advocates for women’s empowerment and intends to contribute meaningfully in that space as she begins her administrative career.
In a time when the UPSC journey is often seen as a prolonged, coaching-intensive pursuit, Aastha’s success demonstrates that clarity, discipline, and self-belief can be just as powerful. Her achievement has brought pride to her family and hometown and has inspired countless aspirants across the nation.