Arvind Hanglem, AIR-83 CSE-22 Prelims, Mains & More

Arvind Hanglem, a young aspirant from Imphal West, Manipur, has emerged as a shining star in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2022, securing the impressive rank of AIR-83. Hailing from a humble background, Arvind's journey to this remarkable achievement is a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and unwavering determination.

Introduction

Arvind's story is one of resilience and triumph over adversity. Growing up without a father since the tender age of 5, he was raised single-handedly by his widowed mother, with the steadfast support of his two brothers. This familial environment instilled in Arvind the values of perseverance, commitment, and the importance of pursuing one's dreams, which would become the driving force throughout his UPSC journey.

Despite the challenges he faced, Arvind remained focused and determined. He completed his schooling in Imphal, Manipur, and later moved to Delhi to pursue his higher education, earning a degree in Physics Honors from Delhi University. This academic pursuit laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the civil services.

Navigating the UPSC Journey

Arvind's UPSC journey began in earnest in 2019, as he embarked on his full-fledged preparation. However, the path was not without its obstacles. He faced disappointment after failing to clear the Preliminary stage not once, but thrice, in the years 2019, 2020, and 2021. The setbacks were particularly devastating in 2021, when he narrowly missed the cut-off by a mere 2.5 marks.

At that pivotal moment, Arvind found himself at a crossroads, contemplating giving up on his dreams. But it was the unwavering support and encouragement of his family and close friends that prevented him from abandoning his aspirations. With renewed determination, Arvind dove back into his preparation, refining his strategies and honing his skills.

Detailed Strategy for Prelims

Arvind's approach to the Preliminary examination was multifaceted. In the General Studies (GS) paper, he aimed to attempt 90-95 questions, striking a balance between breadth and depth. He conducted a thorough analysis of previous year question papers (PYQs) from 2011 onwards, focusing on identifying the keywords and phrases used by UPSC, as well as ensuring conceptual clarity in subjects like Indian Polity, Constitution, Economy, Geography, and Science & Technology.

For the CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) paper, Arvind emphasized building a strong foundation in core topics like Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning. He diligently practiced mock tests, adhering to the designated UPSC time frame, and prioritized speed and accuracy.

Mains Strategy

Arvind's preparation for the Mains examination was equally comprehensive. He meticulously analyzed previous year question papers from 2013 to 2022, with a focus on understanding the "core demand" of each question. This involved underlining key words, breaking down the question into sub-parts, and determining the specific section of the syllabus from which the question was derived.

When crafting his answers, Arvind paid close attention to structuring his arguments, substantiating them with relevant examples, data, and thinkers' ideas. He also incorporated the use of diagrams and technical terms relevant to the subject, ensuring that his responses were well-rounded and nuanced.

Ethics and Ethical Governance

Arvind's dedication to ethical governance and value-based administration was evident in his preparation. He compiled a comprehensive list of philosophical concepts, thinkers' ideas, and real-world examples that highlighted the importance of ethics in individual, societal, and governance domains. This deep understanding of the subject equipped him to navigate the complex ethical dilemmas that are often presented in the UPSC examination.

Overcoming Challenges and Setbacks

Throughout his UPSC journey, Arvind faced numerous challenges, including financial difficulties, family obligations, and repeated setbacks in the Preliminary examinations. However, he never allowed these obstacles to deter him. Instead, he drew inspiration from his widowed mother, who had been his constant source of strength and motivation.

Arvind's unwavering determination and resilience were the driving forces behind his success. He understood that the challenges he faced were not merely hurdles to overcome, but opportunities to grow and strengthen his character. This mindset, coupled with the support of his family, enabled him to persevere and ultimately achieve his goal.

Conclusion

Arvind Hanglem's remarkable journey from a small town in Manipur to securing the prestigious AIR-83 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2022 is a testament to the power of human will and the transformative impact of perseverance. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring civil servants, reminding them that with dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support of loved ones, even the seemingly insurmountable can be conquered.

As Arvind embarks on the next chapter of his career, his message to fellow UPSC aspirants is clear: "Mehnat karne wale logon ki haar nahi hoti" (as the saying goes in Hindi). With unwavering commitment and the courage to face challenges head-on, the path to success, though arduous, is within reach. Arvind's journey is a shining example of the transformative power of determination and the unbreakable human spirit.