Everything you need to know about UPSC Topper Trilok Singh – AIR 20
- Name: Trilok Singh
- Hometown/City: Bhakri, Jodhpur, Rajasthan
- Roll Number: 2200688
- Year of Appearance: 2024
- Attempts: Third
- Optional subject: Political Science and International Relations (PSIR)
- Education: MA political science (JNVU Jodhpur)
Trilok Singh, a hardworking young man from a small village in Jodhpur, secured All-India Rank 20 in the Civil Services Examination. His journey from facing a medical disqualification in the defence forces to becoming an IAS officer is a story of relentless hard work.
Trilok Singh’s Family Background
Trilok Singh comes from an army family in the village of Bhakri, Jodhpur. His father is a retired Indian Army serviceman with 28 years of experience, and his mother is a homemaker. Trilok also has a sister who cleared the JRF and is now working as an assistant professor. Growing up in a military family, he always aspired to serve the country.
Trilok credits his parents and his sister for being his motivation and supporting him even when he failed to clear the UPSC twice.
Trilok Singh’s Educational Background
Trilok Singh completed his schooling at Army Public School, Jodhpur, where he excelled in his studies. After finishing school, he moved to Delhi to obtain his bachelor’s degree. He joined Kirori Mal College, Delhi, for a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. After completing his bachelor’s in mathematics, Trilok joined Jai Narain Vyas University in Jodhpur for his master’s in political science. During his UPSC preparation, Trilok also managed to clear the NET JRF exam.
Trilok Singh’s UPSC Journey
Coming from a family with an army background, Trilok Singh was inclined towards joining the army. He cleared the NDA written exam with an All India Rank of 234 but failed the medical evaluation due to an asymmetrical chest condition. He then tried the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam but failed for the same medical reason. This was a significant blow to someone who had always aspired to serve the country. Instead of being disappointed and giving up, he decided to change his path and prepare for the UPSC exams. He started his civil services preparation in 2021.
From 2021 to 2024, he appeared for more than 15 competitive exams, including UPSC and various state public service examinations. He viewed each exam as an opportunity to learn, assess his knowledge, and enhance his skills. These competitive exams helped him prepare better for the UPSC and gain a deeper understanding of his strengths and weaknesses.
His first UPSC attempt was in 2021, which he failed to clear. He failed in his second attempt as well before finally clearing it in 2024 with an All India Rank of 20.
Trilok Singh’s Interests and Hobbies
Basketball: Enjoys playing and watching live sports.
Hindi Poetry: Trilok Singh often writes and recites poems.
Current Affairs: Trilok keeps track of government schemes, AI advancements, and geopolitical issues.
Trilok Singh’s Optional Paper
Trilok Singh chose political science and international relations as his optional subject. There were two main reasons for this choice. One reason was his background in political science, and the other was his sister, an assistant professor in the same field. The deep knowledge he gained during his master’s studies at JNVU, Jodhpur, helped him understand the topics better and present his answers effectively.
From being medically unfit for the NDA selection in 2019 to becoming an IAS officer in 2025, Trilok Singh has come a long way. His story is a great inspiration for everyone preparing for the Civil Services Examination.
Read more about UPSC AIR 1 (2024) Shakti Dubey and UPSC AIR 2 (2024) Harshita Goyal and other UPSE Toppers 2024
