Ira Singhal, an IRS officer became the first differently abled woman to top the prestigious civil services examination.
Shocked and surprised by her success in UPSC result, she said she never allowed her disability to come in the way of
pursuing her dreams.
With 62 per cent locomotor disability, 30-year-old Ira hopes that her feat will inspire people to have a different perspective when looking at girls, especially the differently-abled ones.
“I have been preparing for this since 2010. I think people will now have a different perspective when looking at girls, especially disabled girls,” Singhal told ANI.
Earlier rejected by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) and Central Board of Customs and Excise for not qualify for the job as Ira is affected by scoliosis by birth and physically challenged to do it.
“Irony is that on medical and physical grounds, I am not eligible to be an IRS, a clerk or even a sweeper, but the rules do allow me to become an IAS,” Singhal said.
Despite being physically handicapped, Ira topped the exam in general category.
“My physical condition has never deterred me from pursuing my dreams,” said Singhal, is currently posted in Hyderabad.
“I want to be an IAS officer. I want to do something for the benefit of physically handicapped people. Actually, every struggle teaches you something. There is a possibility of defeat but in life you have to fight on.”