Gamini Singla IAS |UPSC Topper 2021 | All India Rank 3 | Inspiring Young Civil Servant
From Engineering Dreams to Civil Service Excellence | AIR 3 | UPSC CSE 2021| Second Attempt Success Story
Gamini Singla, a brilliant young woman from Punjab, exemplifies dedication and perseverance. Her journey from a computer science engineer to becoming one of India’s top IAS officers inspires thousands of UPSC aspirants across the nation.
Personal Information – Gamini Singla IAS
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gamini Singla |
| Date of Birth | 1999 (Approx) |
| Age (2025) | 26 Years (Approx) |
| Birth Place | Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, India |
| Hometown | Anandpur Sahib, Punjab |
| Current Posting | SDM (Sub Divisional Magistrate), Baldirai, Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Sikhism |
| Cadre | Uttar Pradesh (UP) |
| Batch | 2022 |
| Service | Indian Administrative Service (IAS) |
Family & Personal Life – Gamini Singla IAS
Gamini Singla comes from a well-educated family deeply rooted in public service. Her family’s unwavering support has been instrumental in her UPSC success journey.
| Family Member | Details |
|---|---|
| Father’s Name | Dr. Alok Singla (Medical Officer, Himachal Pradesh) |
| Mother’s Name | Dr. Neerja Singla (Medical Officer, Himachal Pradesh) |
| Brother | IIT Kharagpur Graduate |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Husband | Not Applicable (Unmarried) |
| Children | None |
Educational Background – Gamini Singla UPSC Journey
Academic Qualifications
| Qualification | Institution | Year | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schooling | Punjab | Till 2015 | Completed from local schools in Punjab |
| B.Tech (Computer Science) | Punjab Engineering College (PEC), Chandigarh | 2015-2019 | Graduated in Computer Science Engineering |
| Internship | JP Morgan Chase | 2019 | Finance Intern – Rejected high-paying job offer for UPSC |
UPSC Civil Services Examination – Gamini Singla Marksheet & Strategy
Examination Performance
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| UPSC Exam Year | 2021 |
| Result Declared | May 30, 2022 |
| All India Rank | 3 (AIR 3) |
| Total Marks Obtained | 1045 out of 2025 |
| Attempt Number | Second Attempt |
| Optional Subject | Sociology |
| Coaching | Primarily Self-Study with InsightsIAS IPM 2021 |
| Preparation Duration | Started in 2019 after graduation |
Gamini Singla Marksheet
Gamini Singlal, who secured AIR 3 in UPSC CSE Exam 2021, scored a total of 1045 marks in the final result. With Sociology as an Optional Subject, she secured 858 marks in the Mains written papers and an impressive 187 marks in the Personality Test (Interview).
| Subject | Marks |
|---|---|
| Essay (Paper I) | 125 |
| General Studies 1 (Paper II) | 132 |
| General Studies 2 (Paper III) | 122 |
| General Studies 3 (Paper IV) | 126 |
| General Studies 4 (Paper V) | 111 |
| Optional 1 (Sociology) (Paper VI) | 152 |
| Optional 2 (Sociology) (Paper VII) | 148 |
| Written Total | 858 |
| Personality Test | 187 |
| Final Total | 1045 |
Gamini Singla UPSC Breakdown
Total Marks: 1045/2025 (51.6%)
Note: Gamini Singla marksheet demonstrates exceptional performance across all papers, particularly in her sociology answer copy which showcased excellent answer writing skills.
| Year | Stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Post Graduation | Started UPSC preparation immediately after completing B.Tech from Punjab Engineering College. Rejected a JP Morgan job offer to focus entirely on civil services. |
| 2020 | First Attempt | Appeared for the UPSC examination. Cleared Prelims and Mains but couldn’t succeed in the Interview stage. Treated it as a learning experience. |
| 2021 | Second Attempt | Appeared again with improved strategy and preparation. Gamini Singla secured All India Rank 3 with 1045 marks, becoming one of the top three women toppers of UPSC CSE 2021. |
| 2022 | Training & Appointment | Joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and underwent foundation training at LBSNAA, Mussoorie. Allotted Uttar Pradesh cadre. |
| 2024 | Current Posting | Serving as SDM (Sub Divisional Magistrate) at Baldirai, Sultanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, working on grassroots administration and public welfare. |
Gamini Singla UPSC Preparation Strategy
Study Approach
-
Aspect Details Study Approach Primarily relied on self-study rather than extensive coaching Newspaper Reading Read The Hindu and Indian Express daily with her father’s help in marking important topics Foundation (NCERTs) Thoroughly read NCERT books (Classes 6–12) for conceptual clarity Standard Books Focused on standard reference books for each subject Answer Writing Practice Regular practice through InsightsIAS IPM test series Revision Strategy Conducted multiple revisions using comprehensive notes Current Affairs Integration Consistently connected current events with static portions
Gamini Singla Books – Recommended Book List
| Subject | Recommended Books |
|---|---|
| History | Ancient India – RS Sharma Medieval India – Satish Chandra Modern India – Spectrum |
| Geography | NCERTs (6-12) Geography of India – Majid Husain |
| Polity | Indian Polity – M Laxmikanth |
| Economy | Indian Economy – Ramesh Singh Economic Survey |
| Environment | Environment – Shankar IAS |
| Sociology (Optional) | Haralambos & Holborn IGNOU Material Nitin Sangwan Notes |
| Current Affairs | The Hindu Newspaper Indian Express Monthly Magazines |
Career Timeline – Gamini Singla IAS Posting
| Year | Position | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | IAS Officer Trainee | LBSNAA, Mussoorie | Foundation training at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration |
| 2023-2024 | Assistant Collector (District Training) | Uttar Pradesh | District-level training and field postings across various departments |
| 2024-Present | Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) | Baldirai, Sultanpur, UP | Gamini Singla IAS current posting – Handling administrative responsibilities, revenue management, and development work |
- Revenue administration and land records
- Law and order maintenance
- Implementation of government schemes
- Disaster management
- Election duties
- Development projects monitoring
Major Achievements & Recognition – Gamini Singla IAS
🏆 UPSC CSE 2021 – All India Rank 3
Secured third position among lakhs of candidates, standing among the top three women toppers
📚 Published Author
Authored “How I Topped the UPSC” – A comprehensive guide for aspirants
🎯 Youth Icon
Inspirational figure for thousands of UPSC aspirants across India
💼 Professional Excellence
Interned at JP Morgan Chase – Demonstrated excellence before choosing civil services
🎤 Public Speaker
Active in public speaking, debating, and Model United Nations activities
| Year | Recognition | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | UPSC Topper 2021 | Officially recognized as UPSC topper 2021 with AIR 3 |
| 2023 | IAS Officer | Successfully completed training and joined civil services |
| 2024 | Author Launch | Published motivational book for UPSC aspirants |
| 2024 | SDM Appointment | Posted as Sub Divisional Magistrate in Sultanpur |
Physical Statistics
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | Approximately 5’5″ (165 cm) |
| Eye Color | Black |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Complexion | Fair |
Career Philosophy & Vision – Gamini Singla IAS
Core Principles
| Core Principle | Description |
|---|---|
| Service Above Self | Gamini Singla IAS believes in putting public welfare before personal gains. |
| Grassroots Development | Focus on implementing schemes that directly benefit rural populations. |
| Technology Integration | Using her engineering background to digitize administrative processes. |
| Women Empowerment | Special focus on women’s education and economic independence. |
| Transparent Governance | Maintaining accountability and accessibility to citizens. |
| Continuous Learning | Staying updated with policies and global best practices. |
Administrative Vision
As SDM Gamini Singla envisions:
- Efficient delivery of government services to every citizen
- Elimination of corruption through digital systems
- Empowering local communities for self-governance
- Creating sustainable development models
- Building trust between administration and citizens
Financial Information
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Salary (as SDM) | ₹56,100 + DA (Initial Pay Level 10) |
| Grade Pay | Pay Level 10 (7th Pay Commission) |
| Allowances | DA, HRA, Travel Allowance, Medical Benefits |
| Estimated Net Worth | ₹5-10 Lakhs (Early Career Stage) |
| Government Benefits | Official Residence, Vehicle, Staff, Medical Insurance |
| Book Earnings | Additional income from published book |
Digital Presence & Public Engagement
| Platform | Status |
|---|---|
| Active – Shares motivational content for aspirants | |
| Professional profile with career updates | |
| YouTube | Occasional interviews and guidance sessions |
| Twitter/X | Limited presence |
| Public Appearances | Webinars, topper talks, and motivational sessions |
Interesting Facts About Gamini Singla IAS
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Rejected Offer | Rejected JP Morgan offer |
| Parental Support | Father marked important newspaper articles daily for her study |
| Education | Computer Science Engineer |
| Parents’ Profession | Both parents are doctors |
| Career Transition | Transitioned from Computer Science Engineering to Civil Services, showcasing versatility |
| UPSC Attempt | Secured AIR 3 in her second attempt, proving that failure is not final |
| Family Background | Brother is an IIT Kharagpur graduate; both parents are medical officers |
| Father’s Role | Father’s daily newspaper marking helped her preparation |
| Age of Success | Cleared UPSC at just 23 years old |
| Optional Subject | Sociology (scored well in Gamini Singla sociology answer copy) |
| Hometown | Anandpur Sahib, Punjab (a holy city) |
| Author | Published a comprehensive book sharing her UPSC journey |
| Public Speaking | Active in debate, MUN, and public speaking during college |
| Personality Traits | Balanced personality combining technical knowledge with administrative acumen |
| Women Empowerment | One of three women in the top 10 of UPSC 2021 |
| Achievement | Achieved remarkable success at a very young age |
| Coaching Approach | Primarily self-studied with minimal coaching |
| Cadre | Uttar Pradesh (UP) Cadre |
| Current Role | Serving as SDM, gaining grassroots administrative experience |
Educational Impact & Mentorship
Guidance for UPSC Aspirants
Gamini Singla actively contributes to the aspirant community through:
- Topper Talks: Regular sessions sharing preparation strategies
- Book Publication: Comprehensive guide with detailed preparation roadmap
- Social Media: Motivational posts and tips for UPSC aspirants
- Interview Guidance: Sharing her interview experience and personality test insights
- Answer Writing Tips: Demonstrating effective answer presentation techniques
- Optional Subject Guidance: Special focus on Sociology optional preparation
Key Messages for Aspirants
- ✓ Consistency matters more than intensity
- ✓ Quality of preparation over quantity of resources
- ✓ Learn from failures – second attempt can be your breakthrough
- ✓ Family support is crucial – involve them in your journey
- ✓ Current affairs must be integrated with static portions
- ✓ Answer writing practice is non-negotiable
- ✓ Stay healthy – physical and mental wellness is important
- ✓ Believe in yourself even when results don’t favor you
Detailed Biography – The Inspiring Journey of Gamini Singla
Early Life & Humble Beginnings
Born in 1999 in the holy city of Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, Gamini Singla grew up in a family deeply committed to public service. Her parents, Dr. Alok Singla and Dr. Neerja Singla, both served as medical officers in Himachal Pradesh, instilling in her the values of dedication, hard work, and service to society from an early age.
Growing up in a family of achievers, with her brother excelling at IIT Kharagpur, Gamini was always encouraged to pursue excellence. However, her path was uniquely her own. From childhood, she harbored dreams of becoming an IAS officer, inspired by the transformative power of administrative positions in shaping society.
Educational Journey & Academic Excellence
After completing her schooling in Punjab with distinction, Gamini Singla secured admission to the prestigious Punjab Engineering College (PEC) in Chandigarh for B.Tech in Computer Science Engineering in 2015. The four years at PEC were transformative – she excelled academically while actively participating in extracurricular activities including debate competitions, Model United Nations, and public speaking events.
Her engineering education taught her analytical thinking, problem-solving, and systematic approaches – skills that would prove invaluable in her UPSC preparation. During her final year, she secured an internship at JP Morgan Chase, one of the world’s leading financial institutions. The internship offered her a glimpse into corporate life and came with a lucrative job offer.
The Defining Decision
In 2019, fresh out of college, Gamini Singla faced a defining choice – accept the high-paying job at JP Morgan or pursue her childhood dream of civil services. The salary package was tempting, offering immediate financial stability and a promising corporate career. However, her heart was set on serving the nation.
With her family’s unwavering support, she made the bold decision to reject the job offer and dedicate herself completely to UPSC preparation. This decision exemplified her clarity of purpose and commitment to her goals. Many aspirants face similar crossroads, and Gamini’s choice continues to inspire thousands to prioritize their passion over immediate gains.
First Attempt – Learning from Setback
In 2020, Gamini Singla appeared for her first UPSC examination. She cleared the Preliminary examination, showcasing strong foundational knowledge. She also succeeded in crossing the Mains hurdle, reaching the final interview stage. However, she couldn’t make it to the final list.
Rather than being discouraged, Gamini treated this as a learning experience. She analyzed her performance, identified gaps in her preparation, particularly in interview skills and personality assessment, and determined to come back stronger. This resilience in the face of disappointment would define her success story.
Second Attempt – The Triumph
For the UPSC CSE 2021, Gamini Singla refined her strategy. She focused on:
- Strengthening Basics: Multiple revisions of NCERT textbooks
- Current Affairs Integration: Daily newspaper reading with her father marking important topics
- Answer Writing: Regular practice through InsightsIAS IPM program
- Interview Preparation: Mock interviews and personality development
- Sociology Optional: Comprehensive preparation with focus on contemporary issues
- Mental Health: Maintaining balance and avoiding burnout
When the results were announced on May 30, 2022, Gamini Singla had secured All India Rank 3 with an impressive 1045 marks out of 2025. She became one of the top three women toppers of UPSC 2021, marking a stellar achievement in her second attempt.
Training & Service Commencement
Post-selection, Gamini Singla IAS underwent rigorous foundation training at the prestigious Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie from 2022-2023. The training exposed her to various aspects of governance, policy-making, and field administration.
She was allotted the Uttar Pradesh cadre, one of India’s largest and most challenging administrative states. Following her foundation training, she underwent district training, rotating through various departments to understand ground-level administration.
Current Role as SDM
Currently serving as Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) at Baldirai in Sultanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, Gamini Singla is experiencing firsthand the challenges and rewards of grassroots administration. As SDM, her responsibilities include:
- Revenue administration and land dispute resolution
- Maintaining law and order in the subdivision
- Implementing government welfare schemes
- Disaster management and crisis response
- Conducting elections and ensuring free and fair voting
- Monitoring development projects
- Addressing public grievances
- Coordinating with various government departments
Gamini Singla IAS posting at Sultanpur has been marked by her hands-on approach, accessibility to citizens, and use of technology to improve service delivery. She regularly conducts public hearings (jan sunwais) and ensures transparent administration.
Author & Mentor
Understanding the challenges aspirants face, Gamini Singla authored the book “How I Topped the UPSC” – a comprehensive guide that shares her complete preparation strategy, study materials, time management techniques, and mental wellness tips. Gamini Singla book has become a valuable resource for thousands of aspirants.
Through social media, webinars, and topper talks, she continues to guide and motivate UPSC aspirants, especially young women who see in her a role model who balanced family expectations, societal pressures, and personal ambitions to achieve excellence.
Recent Developments (2024-2025)
January 2024
Continued serving as SDM Baldirai, implementing various welfare schemes and digitization initiatives
March 2024
Published book “How I Topped the UPSC” receiving excellent reviews from aspirant community
June 2024
Participated in multiple topper talk sessions guiding UPSC 2024 topper aspirants
September 2024
Actively involved in election preparations and administrative arrangements
October 2025
Continuing service as SDM with focus on rural development and women empowerment programs
Lessons & Inspiration from Gamini Singla IAS
For UPSC Aspirants
1. Clarity of Purpose
Gamini Singla rejected lucrative job offers because she had absolute clarity about her goal. Aspirants should define their ‘why’ before starting preparation.
2. Failure is Feedback
Not succeeding in the first attempt didn’t deter her. She analyzed, improved, and came back stronger. Every unsuccessful attempt teaches valuable lessons.
3. Family Support System
Her father’s daily involvement in marking newspapers shows the importance of family support. Share your journey with loved ones.
4. Quality Over Quantity
Gamini Singla UPSC strategy emphasized standard books and multiple revisions rather than hoarding resources.
5. Self-Study Power
While coaching can help, Gamini proved that self-study with discipline can lead to top ranks.
6. Consistency Wins
Daily newspaper reading, regular answer writing, and systematic revision – consistency was her superpower.
7. Balanced Preparation
Despite being an engineer, she chose Sociology optional and excelled. Choose subjects wisely based on interest, not just background.
8. Giving Back
Through her book and mentorship, she’s giving back to the community, showing that success is meaningful when shared.
For Young Civil Servants
- Grassroots Experience: Value your initial postings as learning opportunities
- Technology Integration: Use technical skills to modernize administration
- People-First Approach: Administrative power exists to serve citizens
- Continuous Learning: The learning doesn’t end after selection
- Integrity: Maintain ethical standards in all decisions
For Women Aspirants
Gamini Singla IAS represents modern Indian women who are breaking barriers:
- Age is not a barrier – she achieved at 23
- Family support can be secured through communication
- Engineering or science background doesn’t limit humanities optional
- Women can excel in challenging administrative cadres like UP
- Balance personal aspirations with societal expectations
Quick Facts Summary – Gamini Singla at a Glance
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gamini Singla |
| UPSC Rank | All India Rank 3 (2021) |
| Age | 26 years (2025) |
| Birthplace | Anandpur Sahib, Punjab |
| Education | B.Tech Computer Science, PEC Chandigarh |
| Attempts | 2nd Attempt Success |
| Optional Subject | Sociology |
| Total Marks | 1045/2025 |
| Cadre | Uttar Pradesh (UP) |
| Current Position | SDM, Baldirai, Sultanpur |
| Parents | Dr. Alok Singla & Dr. Neerja Singla (Medical Officers) |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Book Published | “How I Topped the UPSC” |
| Notable Achievement | Rejected JP Morgan job for civil services |
| Inspiration | Youth icon for UPSC aspirants nationwide |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is Gamini Singla’s current posting?
Answer: Gamini Singla IAS current posting is Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) at Baldirai in Sultanpur district, Uttar Pradesh.
Q2: What is Gamini Singla’s UPSC rank?
Answer: Gamini Singla UPSC rank is All India Rank 3 (AIR 3) in the Civil Services Examination 2021.
Q3: Is Gamini Singla married?
Answer: No, Gamini Singla IAS is currently unmarried. Information about Gamini Singla IAS husband is not applicable as she is not married.
Q4: What was Gamini Singla’s UPSC attempt number?
Answer: Gamini Singla attempt was her second. She secured AIR 3 in her 2nd attempt after clearing Prelims and Mains in the first attempt but not making the final list.
Q5: What is Gamini Singla’s age?
Answer: Gamini Singla age is approximately 26 years as of 2025 (born in 1999).
Q6: What were Gamini Singla’s UPSC marks?
Answer: Gamini Singla marksheet shows she scored 1045 marks out of 2025 total marks in UPSC CSE 2021.
Q7: Which optional subject did Gamini Singla choose?
Answer: Gamini Singla chose Sociology as her optional subject despite having a Computer Science Engineering background.
Q8: Has Gamini Singla written any book?
Answer: Yes, Gamini Singla book titled “How I Topped the UPSC” is available, which provides comprehensive guidance for aspirants.
Q9: What was Gamini Singla’s educational background?
Answer: Gamini Singla completed B.Tech in Computer Science Engineering from Punjab Engineering College (PEC), Chandigarh (2015-2019).
Q10: What is unique about Gamini Singla’s UPSC preparation?
Answer: Gamini Singla UPSC marksheet success came through self-study, her father’s daily newspaper assistance, consistent revision, and strong answer writing practice without heavy coaching dependency.
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Nishant Kumar is the founder and lead content creator at OfficersDetails.com, a platform dedicated to delivering accurate, verified information about officers in government, corporate, and legal sectors. With a strong background in public administration and data research, Nishant is passionate about transparency, governance, and simplifying access to essential leadership profiles.