Ira Singhal is a distinguished IAS officer from the 2015 batch of the AGMUT cadre, renowned for being the first differently-abled woman to top the UPSC Civil Services Examination, where she secured AIR 1. Born on 31 August 1983 in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, she is currently 41 years old. Despite overcoming the challenges posed by scoliosis, a spinal disorder, Ira has had an illustrious career. She is presently serving as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Electoral Officer in Arunachal Pradesh, continuing her dedication to public service and inclusivity.

Quick Info Of Ira Singhal IAS
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Profession | IAS Officer |
Name | Ira Singhal |
Date of Birth | 31 August 1983 |
Birth Year | 1983 |
Age (2024) | 41 |
UPSC Cracking Age | 31 |
Native Place | Meerut, Uttar Pradesh |
Date of Joining | 27 November 2023 |
Batch | 2015 |
Cadre | AGMUT |
Education Qualification | BE (Computer Engineering) from NSIT; Dual MBA (Marketing & Finance) from FMS, Delhi University |
Current Posting | Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Electoral Officer, Arunachal Pradesh |
Date of Retirement | 31 August 2043 |
Husband/Wife | Still Unmarried |
Family | Father: Rajendra Singhal (Engineer); Mother: Anita Singhal (Insurance Advisor) |
First Posting | SDM, Delhi |
UPSC Rank | 1 (2015) |
Attempt | 4th |
Optional Subject | Geography |
Marks Secured | 1,082/2,025 |
@singhal.ira |
Early Life and Education Of Ira Singhal IAS
Born on 31 August 1983 in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Ira Singhal demonstrated academic brilliance from an early age. She attended Sophia Girls School, Meerut, and later moved to Loreto Convent School, Delhi for further studies.
Her higher education includes:
- BE in Computer Engineering from Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology (NSIT), now Netaji Subhas University of Technology.
- Dual MBA in Marketing and Finance from Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi University.
Despite being diagnosed with scoliosis, a spinal disorder that limits arm movement, Ira remained undeterred and pursued her ambitions with exceptional zeal.
UPSC Journey Of Ira Singhal IAS
Ira Singhal cracked the UPSC Civil Services Examination in her 4th attempt in 2015, securing AIR 1. Her success was remarkable, especially given the systemic challenges she faced due to her disability.
UPSC Marksheet Of Ira Singhal IAS
Subject | Marks Secured |
---|---|
Essay | 160 |
General Studies Paper 1 | 103 |
General Studies Paper 2 | 122 |
General Studies Paper 3 | 95 |
General Studies Paper 4 | 135 |
Optional Subject (Geography) | 305 (168 + 137) |
Written Total | 920 |
Interview | 162 |
Total Marks | 1,082 |
Professional Career
Ira’s first posting was as Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Delhi. She is currently serving as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Electoral Officer in Arunachal Pradesh. Throughout her career, she has exemplified dedication, ensuring inclusivity and better governance.
Personal Life and Family
Ira comes from a supportive family:
- Father: Rajendra Singhal, an engineer.
- Mother: Anita Singhal, an insurance advisor.
She is unmarried and continues to inspire millions with her journey.

Inspirational Takeaways
Ira Singhal’s journey teaches us:
- Physical limitations cannot stop you from achieving your dreams.
- Perseverance and hard work are keys to success.
- Society must ensure inclusivity in all spheres of life.