From Childhood Dream to Civil Services Reality: Subhankar Bala's Inspiring UPSC Journey

In the heart of Cooch Behar, West Bengal, a young boy named Subhankar Bala harbored a dream that began not in textbooks, but in the corridors of a government office. Inspired by his father's work at the SDO office, where the aura of IAS officers left an indelible mark, Subhankar's ambition to join the Indian Administrative Service was ignited as early as Class V.

This profound childhood inspiration would become the unwavering compass guiding him through years of rigorous preparation and ultimate triumph.

Subhankar's academic foundation was built with excellence. He attended Jenkins School, then honed his intellect at Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira for his higher secondary education.

His pursuit of knowledge led him to Presidency University, where he earned his graduation in Mathematics, before furthering his studies with a Masters from the prestigious IIT Guwahati. These strong academic credentials provided a robust base, but the true test of his resolve lay ahead in the formidable UPSC Civil Services Examination.

After completing his Masters, Subhankar wasted no time in diving into dedicated UPSC preparation.

He moved to Delhi, joining a coaching center for a year to immerse himself in the intense study required for the competitive exam. His first attempt at the UPSC CSE, however, did not yield the desired result; he faced the initial disappointment of not clearing the preliminary examination. For many, this setback might have been a deterrent, but for Subhankar, it was merely a redirection, a lesson learned, and a catalyst for even greater determination.

Undeterred by the initial failure, Subhankar refined his strategy and redoubled his efforts.

His preparation for the second attempt was marked by meticulous planning, unwavering consistency, and an unshakeable belief in his childhood dream. He extensively utilized online resources, diligently followed current affairs through newspapers, meticulously adhered to the UPSC syllabus, and rigorously practiced with mock tests.

Revision became his constant companion, ensuring every concept was etched firmly in his mind, with a particular emphasis on mastering current events.

The journey was not without its challenges. The pressure of the examination, the immense competition, and the self-doubt that often creeps in after a setback were all hurdles he had to overcome.

Yet, through every trying moment, the unwavering support of his family and the vivid memory of his Class V dream served as his anchors. Their belief in him fueled his spirit, transforming obstacles into stepping stones.

His perseverance bore fruit in the UPSC CSE 2023. Subhankar Bala's name appeared on the final list with an impressive All India Rank (AIR) 86.

It was a moment of profound joy and vindication, not just for him but for his entire family and the community that watched his journey unfold. His success story is a powerful testament to the adage that hard work truly pays off, that consistency is key, and that a dream nurtured from childhood, coupled with relentless effort, can indeed transform into a remarkable reality.

Subhankar's journey from Cooch Behar to the pinnacle of civil services is an inspiration for countless aspirants, echoing the message: believe in your dreams, work hard, and never give up.