Rising from the Ashes: Manuj Jindal’s Triumph Over Depression to Achieve UPSC Success

Manuj Jindal’s journey to becoming an IAS officer, securing AIR 53 in the 2016 UPSC Civil Services Examination, is a story of personal battles, resilience, and eventual triumph. Born in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, Manuj displayed academic prowess early on and developed a keen sense of discipline and service. This inclination led him to crack the NDA (National Defence Academy) exam at the age of 18, securing an impressive AIR 18. His early success set the stage for a promising future, but life had other plans.

During his time at the NDA, Manuj faced unexpected challenges. Despite excelling in his initial term, he began struggling with severe anxiety and depression. The pressure of the intense training environment took a toll on his mental health, eventually leading him to leave the NDA. Being deemed medically unfit was a significant setback, one that not only ended his military aspirations but also left him grappling with feelings of failure and uncertainty about the future.

After leaving the NDA, Manuj took a step back to rebuild his life. He pursued higher education at the University of Virginia in the United States, where he studied Economics and Management. His academic journey abroad opened new doors, and he soon found himself working in the finance sector, with a stable job at Barclays. Despite his success overseas, the dream of serving his country through the civil services continued to linger in his mind. He decided to return to India, drawn by the desire to make a direct impact on society

Inspired by his younger brother, who was also preparing for the UPSC, Manuj began his own preparation in 2014. His first attempt was unsuccessful, a humbling experience that tested his resolve. He made a second attempt in 2015, managing to clear the Mains exam but landing on the reserve list. This result was a bittersweet moment—so close yet not quite the breakthrough he had hoped for. Many might have been discouraged after two setbacks, but Manuj saw this as a stepping stone rather than a defeat.

With a renewed sense of determination, he geared up for a third attempt in 2016. This time, he focused on refining his approach, particularly in the essay paper, which had been a weak point in his previous attempts. He invested time in understanding the structure of essays and developing a systematic approach to answer writing, which he shared later with other aspirants through various platforms. His rigorous practice and strategic changes paid off when he secured AIR 53, earning a place in the IAS.

The moment of success in 2016 was one of immense relief and fulfillment for Manuj. It wasn’t just about cracking an exam; it was about overcoming personal demons, pushing through periods of self-doubt, and proving to himself that he could achieve his dreams despite the odds. Manuj credits his family, especially his brother, for their unwavering support throughout his journey. He believes that their encouragement during his lowest points made a significant difference.

Beyond the exam, Manuj’s experiences have shaped his approach to public service. As an IAS officer of the Maharashtra cadre, he has been posted in roles like CEO of the Zila Parishad in Thane, where he focuses on grassroots development and policy implementation. Manuj’s journey from the structured regimens of the NDA to the complexities of the civil services has given him a unique perspective on leadership and governance.

He remains active in the UPSC community, using his experiences to guide and motivate other aspirants. Through his YouTube channel and social media presence, he shares insights about mental well-being, the importance of resilience, and practical strategies for navigating the UPSC preparation journey. Manuj’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about the final outcome but about the perseverance shown through each setback, making him a source of inspiration for many.