At just 21 years old, Ansar Shaikh etched his name into the history books as India’s youngest IAS officer, defying the odds and inspiring a nation. The son of an auto-rickshaw driver from Maharashtra’s Shelgaon village, Ansar’s journey to the top ranks of the UPSC Civil Services Examination is a testament to determination, resilience, and the power of dreams.
Born into a modest family with limited resources, Ansar faced numerous social and economic challenges. His father, who drove a rickshaw to support the family, often struggled to make ends meet. Yet, despite financial hardships, social stigma, and the pressure to drop out, Ansar remained focused on one goal — becoming a civil servant.
With unwavering support from his younger brother, who worked at a garage to fund his education, Ansar pursued his graduation in political science from Fergusson College, Pune. He cracked the prestigious UPSC exam in his very first attempt, securing an All India Rank of 361.
“What mattered was not where I came from, but where I wanted to go,” says Ansar, who now serves as a role model for thousands of youth from marginalized communities across India.
His story is more than just academic success — it’s about breaking barriers. Ansar, a Muslim youth from a backward region, has become a symbol of hope, perseverance, and equality in Indian bureaucracy.
As he continues his journey in public service, Ansar Shaikh proves that with grit, vision, and courage, no dream is too distant — no matter how humble the beginning.
