Tushar Singla, IAS, is a name synonymous with dedication, perseverance, and public service excellence. As a 2015-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, Tushar has carved a niche for himself in the competitive world of civil services in India. His journey from being an electrical engineer educated at IIT Delhi to cracking the prestigious Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination is nothing short of inspirational. Married to IPS officer Navjot Simi, Tushar’s personal and professional life reflects a blend of commitment and resilience. This detailed biography explores Tushar Singla’s life, education, UPSC preparation strategy, career milestones, and his current role as of 2025, offering insights for aspirants and admirers alike.
Early Life and Background of Tushar Singla
Tushar Singla was born on June 3, 1990, in Barnala, a small town in Punjab, India. Raised in a modest family, Tushar grew up with strong values of hard work and determination instilled by his parents. Tragically, he lost his father at a young age, leaving him to be raised by his mother in Howrah, West Bengal. Despite this early setback, Tushar excelled academically, displaying a natural aptitude for learning that would later define his path.
From his childhood, Tushar was a diligent student, consistently scoring high marks in school. His academic brilliance earned him admission into one of India’s most prestigious institutions, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. This marked the beginning of a transformative phase in his life, setting the stage for his future achievements.
Education: From IIT Delhi to UPSC Dreams
Tushar Singla pursued a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from IIT Delhi, one of the top engineering colleges in India. His time at IIT honed his analytical skills and problem-solving abilities—qualities that would later prove invaluable in his civil services career. After completing his undergraduate degree, Tushar didn’t stop there. He went on to pursue a postgraduate degree in Public Administration from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Delhi, further enriching his knowledge base.
While many IIT graduates opt for lucrative corporate jobs, Tushar had a different vision. Inspired by the idea of serving the nation, he set his sights on the UPSC Civil Services Examination—one of the toughest competitive exams in India. His educational background in engineering and public administration gave him a unique edge, blending technical expertise with an understanding of governance.
UPSC Journey: A Tale of Persistence
Tushar Singla’s UPSC journey is a testament to the power of persistence. He began preparing for the exam in 2013, but his first attempt was unsuccessful. Undeterred, Tushar regrouped and refined his strategy for his second attempt in 2014. His efforts paid off when he secured an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 86 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2014, earning him a spot in the IAS.
In interviews, Tushar has shared insights into his preparation strategy, emphasizing a phased approach. He prepared in patches: from May to November 2013, followed by a break from December 2013 to June 2014. He resumed his studies in late June 2014, dedicating the next five months to intensive preparation. This focused effort during the final stretch was pivotal to his success.
Tushar chose Public Administration as his optional subject, leveraging his postgraduate expertise. For the UPSC prelims, he attempted 85 questions in Paper I and 78 in Paper II, adopting a calculated guesswork strategy for uncertain answers. His advice to aspirants? Focus on understanding the question thoroughly and eliminate improbable options to maximize accuracy.
Career as an IAS Officer
Tushar Singla joined the IAS in 2015 as part of the West Bengal cadre. His early postings included roles that tested his administrative acumen and leadership skills. One notable assignment was as the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) in Uluberia, West Bengal, where he handled grassroots governance and development initiatives. His work in this capacity earned him recognition for his efficiency and dedication.
Over the years, Tushar’s career progressed steadily. He was later promoted to the Senior Time Scale by the Government of India, reflecting his growing stature in the administrative hierarchy. In a significant career move, Tushar requested a cadre change to Bihar after his marriage to IPS officer Navjot Simi, aligning his professional life with his personal commitments.
As of February 25, 2025, Tushar Singla serves as the District Magistrate (DM) of Kishanganj in Bihar. Appointed to this role in 2023, he has been instrumental in driving developmental projects and addressing local challenges in the district. His tenure in Kishanganj has been marked by a focus on education, healthcare, and infrastructure—key pillars of sustainable growth.
Personal Life: Love Story with Navjot Simi
Tushar Singla’s personal life garnered widespread attention when he married Navjot Simi, an IPS officer of the 2017 batch from the Bihar cadre. Born in Gurdaspur, Punjab, Navjot is a dentist-turned-police officer who cleared the UPSC exam in her second attempt with a rank of 735. The couple’s love story began in Patna, where they met at a restaurant for their first date. Over a dinner of soup and a main course, they decided to build a future together.
Their wedding in 2020, just before the COVID-19 lockdown, was a unique affair. Pressed for time due to their demanding schedules, Tushar and Navjot opted for a registered marriage at Tushar’s office in West Bengal, followed by a traditional ceremony in a temple. The simplicity and practicality of their wedding resonated with many, and their pictures went viral on social media.
Today, Tushar and Navjot are a power couple in the civil services, balancing their professional responsibilities with their personal life. They often share glimpses of their travels and family moments online, endearing them to followers across India.
Contributions and Public Perception
Tushar Singla’s contributions as an IAS officer extend beyond administrative duties. His focus on public welfare, coupled with his approachable demeanor, has made him a respected figure. In Kishanganj, he has worked to improve access to education and healthcare, addressing the needs of a district that faces socio-economic challenges.
On social media, Tushar enjoys a significant following, with his Instagram handle (@tusharsingla_ias) showcasing his professional achievements and personal milestones. His posts—from carrying Navjot’s bag on a trip to celebrating their daughter’s milestones—reflect a relatable and grounded personality, earning him admiration from aspirants and the public alike.
Lessons from Tushar Singla’s Journey
Tushar Singla’s story offers valuable lessons for UPSC aspirants and anyone pursuing a dream. His journey underscores the importance of resilience—bouncing back from failure to achieve success. His strategic approach to UPSC preparation, blending discipline with adaptability, serves as a blueprint for cracking the exam. Moreover, his ability to balance a high-pressure career with a fulfilling personal life highlights the significance of time management and priorities.
For those inspired by his path, Tushar’s advice is clear: focus on the process, not just the outcome. Whether it’s tackling a tough exam question or addressing a district’s needs, a calm and methodical approach can yield remarkable results.
Conclusion
Tushar Singla, IAS, embodies the spirit of perseverance and service that defines India’s civil services. From his humble beginnings in Punjab to his current role as the DM of Kishanganj, his journey is a beacon of hope for millions. His academic excellence, UPSC triumph, and impactful career, combined with a heartwarming love story, make him a standout figure in the administrative landscape.
As of February 25, 2025, Tushar continues to inspire through his work and personal life, proving that with dedication and the right mindset, any goal is achievable. Whether you’re an aspiring IAS officer or simply curious about his story, Tushar Singla’s biography is a compelling narrative of grit, love, and service to the nation.
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