Boardroom to Bureaucracy: The UPSC Journey of IAS Alok Ranjan

February 8, 2024

4 Minutes

IAS Alok Ranjan

Introduction

Alok Ranjan, an IAS officer with 38 years of service, who retired as the Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh, shares his insights and experiences to guide aspiring civil servants. He left his well-paying job to prepare for the Civil Services Exam and secured an AIR 4 on his first attempt. 

Alok’s Preparation Journey

He pursued a B.A. Economics Hons. at St. Stephens and an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad, then embarked on a high-paying corporate career in Mumbai. He made a bold decision to leave his well-paid job. Moving back to Delhi, he dedicated himself to civil services exam preparation in a modest room above a garage in Defence Colony. His hard work paid off spectacularly when he achieved an impressive All India Rank 4 on his very first attempt in 1978, earning a place in the UP Cadre. 

Full-Time UPSC Preparation vs. Working

UPSC preparation requires rigorous preparation due to tough competition. While juggling a full-time job the preparation can be challenging as it consumes 8-10 hours daily, often leaving individuals too exhausted for effective exam prep. Success on the first attempt isn’t guaranteed, and quitting a job for an extended period for multiple attempts isn’t practical for everyone. Alok advises that dedicating oneself fully, at least for the first attempt, increases the chances of success. He encourages aspirants to give their best effort and not be disheartened by initial setbacks.

Why prepare for UPSC?

Choosing civil services as a career requires understanding your motivations beyond the allure of power, status, and perks. Many people believe that a career in civil services is all about high salaries, respect, and authority.  Alok asserts, “True power lies not in commanding others but in wielding your pen to transform lives”,  bursting many myths that many hold towards the civil services. Alok’s narrative sheds light on the reality. With a final CTC of 27 lakhs after reaching the pinnacle of his career, he points out that monetary gains in civil services pale in comparison to what one might achieve in the corporate world. However, the real reward lies in the impact one can create. 

UPSC Exam Preparation Strategy

Selecting the right optional subject is crucial; choose one that matches your interests or academic background for better-scoring potential. In essay writing, keep in mind to write a balanced answer. Do not answer the topic, answer the question asked. For example, if a question is ‘Napolean was a child of French Revolution.’ Do not write about Napolean or the French Revolution. Rather write how the French Revolution led to the rise and fall of Napolean. The language of writing is also important. The interview is more about who you are and how you think, not just what you know. Give balanced answers. To be a part of civil services, one has to be in favour of secularism, socialism, and democracy. Wear simple clothes, answer politely, and always tell the truth. If you don’t know the answer. Politely reply you’re not sure but you’ll learn about it. Try to take the interview board towards the topics you are familiar with. 

Making a difference: Life as an IAS Officer

In his first role as SDM in Uttar Pradesh, he adapted to living in basic conditions, using a lantern for light due to the lack of electricity and water. He recounts a significant moment when villagers reported a woman being assaulted. Despite initial police denial, he and his team successfully intervened to save her.  As the District Magistrate of Agra, he spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative, with the help of more than five lakh men and women volunteers between the ages of 15 and 45, he educated illiterate people within a year without spending any money. This was approved by the Government of India. As a chief secretary, he was part of many initiatives such as Lucknow- Agra Expressway, Lucknow Metro, and the 100 dialing system was done within two years. 

Conclusion

Alok Ranjan’s story shows us that with hard work and the right reasons for joining, anyone can make a big difference in people’s lives. He emphasizes the importance of clear motivation, rigorous preparation, and the true essence of public service over personal gain. Through his experiences, Alok demonstrates that the real value of civil services lies not in the prestige or monetary benefits but in the opportunity to make significant contributions to society.

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