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Dr. Singh’s career in the IAS is marked by a series of significant appointments and responsibilities. His early years saw him hold various critical positions in Uttar Pradesh, a state known for its complex administrative challenges. His initial postings included serving as District Magistrate and Collector in Chitrakoot (January 2012 – September 2012) and Kannauj (September 2012 – February 2013), where he gained hands-on experience in district administration and governance.
Following these roles, Dr. Adarsh Singh took on multiple Special Secretary positions in the Uttar Pradesh government, where he worked in departments such as Transport, Rural Development, Home, and Sugar Industries & Cane Development. His work as the Mission Director for the Rajkya Gramin Ajivika Mission, focusing on rural development, highlighted his commitment to improving the livelihoods of rural populations.
In December 2015, Dr. Singh returned to the role of District Magistrate and Collector, this time in Pratapgarh, where he served until April 2017. His success in this role led to his appointment as the Special Secretary to the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, where he played a crucial role in the state’s governance and policy implementation from April 2017 to June 2019.
One of the most Notable phases of Dr. Adarsh Singh career was his tenure as the District Magistrate and Collector of Barabanki from June 2019 to September 2022. His effective administration and ability to manage the district’s affairs during this period earned him significant recognition.
In September 2022, Dr. Singh was appointed as the Incharge Commissioner of Jhansi, a role that was soon elevated to Divisional Commissioner. During his tenure, he was noted for his leadership in managing the division’s administration effectively. His current position, as of February 2024, is the Excise Commissioner in Prayagraj, where he continues to contribute to public service with dedication.
Dr. Adarsh Singh’s career reflects a consistent trajectory of growth and accomplishment in the IAS, marked by his commitment to excellence in public administration and governance. His diverse experiences across various departments and his leadership in key roles highlight his expertise and the trust placed in him to manage significant responsibilities within the Indian administrative framework.
]]>The exam consists of three stages – Prelims, Mains, and Interview – each demanding different skill sets and thorough knowledge. The competition is fierce, with lakhs of aspirants vying for a limited number of vacancies. Success hinges not just on academic knowledge but also on strategic planning, resilience in the face of setbacks, and a strong sense of purpose.

Today, we share the success story of IFS Pujya Priyadarshini that will inspire those who aspire to become an Officer in the Indian Administrative Services.

After graduating with a B.Com degree in Delhi, Pujya Priyadarshini decided to pursue her studies further at Columbia University in New York, specializing in Public Administration. She had a promising job offer after completing her post-graduation, but her heart was set on a different path: becoming an IFS officer. This dream inspired her to diligently prepare for the UPSC exams.

Her journey began with her first attempt in 2013, but unfortunately, it ended in disappointment. Undeterred, she took a three-year break before trying again in 2016. This time, she successfully cleared the Prelims and Mains, but the interview round proved challenging, leading to another setback.

Despite these obstacles, Pujya remained determined. In 2017, she made her third attempt and came closer to success, yet victory still eluded her grasp, causing her to doubt her aspirations. However, with the unwavering support of her loved ones, she resolved to give it one final try.

Her perseverance finally paid off in 2018 when she secured an impressive AIR-11 rank, achieving her dream of becoming an IFS officer.

Reflecting on her journey, Pujya Priyadarshini emphasizes the importance of resilience in the face of failure. She advises aspiring candidates to see setbacks as opportunities for personal growth and to persistently pursue their goals with unwavering dedication.

Pujya’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the belief that with persistence and support, dreams can indeed come true. Her journey from Delhi to Columbia University and eventually to the esteemed ranks of the IFS is an inspiring tale for anyone striving to achieve their ambitions. Her advice to never give up and to learn from every setback resonates not only with UPSC aspirants but with anyone facing challenges in pursuit of their dreams.

As she looks forward to her career in the Indian Foreign Service, Pujya Priyadarshini continues to inspire others with her story of grit, determination, and unwavering faith in her dreams.
