From Failure to AIR 76: How an IAS Husband Coached His Wife After 4 Failed UPSC Attempts

From Failure to AIR 76: How an IAS Husband Coached His Wife After 4 Failed UPSC Attempts

The journey to clearing the UPSC Civil Services Examination is often a test of emotional endurance. While many candidates quit after a few setbacks, the story of Kalpana Rawat and her husband, IAS Surya Pratap Singh, stands out as a beautiful example of partnership and shared success.

The Struggle: Facing Four Consecutive Failures

Kalpana Rawat, hailing from Sonipat, Haryana, was always a bright student. However, the UPSC exam proved to be a different challenge. Despite her hard work, she failed to clear the exam four times. The repeated rejections left her demoralized, and she reached a point where she wanted to quit the pursuit entirely.

The Mentor in the Husband

At this crossroads, her husband, Surya Pratap Singh (a 2021 batch IAS officer), stepped in. Currently serving as the DDC in Samastipur, Bihar, Surya Pratap refused to let his wife give up on her potential. Despite his grueling schedule as a senior administrator, he took on the role of her coach.

  • Customized Strategy: He prepared detailed notes for her after his office hours.
  • Conceptual Clarity: He spent nights explaining complex governance and political topics.
  • Answer Writing: He personally evaluated her mock tests, teaching her the art of presenting answers like an administrator.
The Grand Success: In the UPSC CSE 2024 results, Kalpana Rawat achieved an incredible All India Rank (AIR) 76. Remarkably, she secured a higher rank than her husband did in his time, proving that with the right support, no goal is too high.

The Power Couple of Bihar

Before entering the civil services, Surya Pratap Singh was training as a Flying Officer in the Indian Air Force but had to leave due to a serious injury. His transition to becoming an IAS officer and now helping his wife achieve the same feat has earned the duo the title of 'Power Couple' in the administrative circles of Bihar.

Their story reminds us that behind every great success, there is often a silent pillar of support.

Source: Based on reports from News18, Prabhat Khabar, and Official UPSC Records.