From Medical Rejection to Rank 1: Ira Singhal’s Historic Comeback Ira Singhal was born in Delhi in a family that had a great passion for freedom and education. Ira was hardworking and a good student. She was an engineer and then worked for a company. She still wanted to serve the nation, and so, although she had a job, she never lost sight of her goal. After a few years, she started dreaming of clearing the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Services Commission (UPSC). Ira wanted to try her hand at this and started studying and preparing for this examination with the dream of working in the Indian government. Ira's hard work and determination finally paid off when she qualified for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, but then came the moment of truth for everyone who aspires. When the medical test was being conducted, she was labelled "unfit" for the services because of scoliosis, which makes her incapable of walking freely. Unfortunately, she was not selected for the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) because of her medical condition. But Ira Singhal fought back and challenged in court. She contested the rules that deemed her unfit despite her good grades. Her action highlighted the way disability and other medical concerns are dealt with in the provision of public services. As challenging as the process was, it was also time-consuming, uncertain and stressful. But Ira continued to be determined. When the hearing of the case began, she didn't waver; instead, she continued learning and practising, and displayed great discipline and tenacity. Ira's battle was her own, but also became a representation, especially for the specially -abled aspirants who face such challenges in competitive examinations. In 2014, Ira Singhal returned to take the UPSC Civil Services Examination. This time, she not only passed it again but also came out as the topper in the country (All India Rank 1). Her success was a historic occasion for the UPSC. She turned her rejection into a recognition of merit and a triumph of transformation from exclusion to inclusion. Ira Singhal’s story has resonated beyond the ranks. She shattered myths of disability and ability, and symbolised strength, ambition and opportunity. This is an inspiration for all the aspirants facing personal and other challenges to overcome their barriers and not let their limitations hold them back from achieving their goals. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Education, CBSE, JEE, UPSC and around the world. Professionals & enthusiasts who write about politics to science, from economy to education, from local issues to national events and global affairs, t... View More