In the quiet town of Mir-Dantar in Anantnag, South Kashmir, a story of determination and perseverance has unfolded. Mohammad Muneeb Bhat, a 32-year-old civil engineering graduate, has proven that even the toughest challenges can be overcome with unwavering commitment. After seven long years of continuous effort, Muneeb secured an impressive All India Rank of 131 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, likely earning him a place in the Indian Police Service.
A Journey of Persistence and Hope
Muneeb’s UPSC journey began in 2017 after completing his B.Tech in Civil Engineering. Like many aspirants, his path was filled with obstacles. After facing several setbacks in previous attempts, Muneeb refused to give up. The journey that started in 2017 saw him pass the Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Services (JKAS) examination in 2023, where he was allocated to the State Police Service. Currently serving as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DYSP) on probation, Muneeb continued to pursue his ultimate dream of clearing the UPSC examination.
“This was my last attempt,” Muneeb shares, highlighting the pressure and stakes involved. “I had already secured a position in the state services, but my dream was always to join the Indian Police Service.” His story reflects how strategic preparation and mental resilience can help overcome repeated failures and eventually lead to success.
Preparation Strategy: Sticking to the Basics
When asked about his preparation strategy, Muneeb emphasizes simplicity. “My strategy was simple, like other successful candidates—stick to the basics,” he explains. His approach included a thorough study of NCERT textbooks, analysis of previous years’ question papers, and regular newspaper reading.
“Newspaper reading has been a very important factor in my preparation from the beginning days through this journey,” Muneeb notes. He focused extensively on answer writing practice for the mains examination, which helped him improve his presentation skills and content quality.
The Role of Coaching and Study Environment
Muneeb sought coaching for his optional subject, Political Science and International Relations, from Shubhra Ranjan Coaching Institute in Delhi. He stayed in Delhi’s Jamia RCA and participated in study groups that provided crucial support and the right atmosphere for preparation.
“These residential coaching academies create an environment conducive to serious study,” Muneeb reflects. However, he also believes that aspirants can prepare effectively even from home with proper guidance and the resources available today. “These days, so many resources are available online. You can take advantage of those things and stay motivated, focused, and disciplined.”
Support System: The Backbone of Success
Throughout his seven-year journey, Muneeb’s support system played a vital role. “The support of my parents has been very crucial in this journey,” he acknowledges gratefully. “Support of my parents, siblings, fiancée—all of them have been very supportive. My friends have always encouraged and motivated me.”
Behind his success was also his inner willpower. As Muneeb puts it, “More than that was my inner willpower that sustained me during this journey because this dream, this aspiration was my own.” Despite facing setbacks, he kept himself motivated by minor improvements and positive signs in his examination performance.
Lessons for Aspirants: Clarity, Positivity, and Guidance
For those preparing for the civil services examination, Muneeb offers valuable advice: “Be very clear about your goals. This dream has to be yours—live this dream and don’t be demotivated by setbacks.”
He emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and seeking guidance from those who have already cleared the examination. “Proper guidance and mentoring is more important than coaching,” he believes, encouraging aspirants to stay motivated and disciplined even when results take time.
A Vision of Service
As Muneeb prepares to enter the civil services, his vision remains clear—to serve the public with compassion and empathy. “My aim is to be as compassionate and empathetic as possible for the common public,” he shares, emphasizing his commitment to reaching the last person in the queue.
“The spirit of ‘Antyodaya’—serving the last man in the queue—has been my aim from the very beginning when I started this preparation,” Muneeb affirms. “My aim and vision will be the same: to serve the last man in the queue and be true to the oath and ethos of the services.”
Mohammad Muneeb Bhat’s journey from a small town in Kashmir to UPSC success inspires thousands of aspirants across the country. His story reminds us that even the most challenging goals can be achieved with dedication, proper strategy, and unwavering determination.
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