Mohammed Haris Sumair, the Chief Executive Officer of Ballari Zilla Panchayat, recently shared a profound message with aspiring students: true success, especially in competitive examinations, hinges on a potent combination of unwavering motivation, diligent perseverance, and a healthy study-life balance.
His remarks came during a well-attended UPSC Aspirants’ Meet, an event collaboratively organized by The Hindu Civil Services Aspirants’ Club and Shankar IAS Academy, held at the Ballari Institute of Technology and Management (BITM) in Ballari.
The 2021-batch IAS officer, originally from Bidar, captivated the audience with his personal journey. He recounted how the presence of a police station near his childhood home inspired his elder brother to become an IPS officer, which subsequently fueled his own ambition to pursue civil services. He successfully cleared the rigorous examination on his second attempt.
Mr. Sumair highlighted how observing the impactful initiatives of IAS officers in his hometown—even seemingly small ones—motivated him deeply. As an engineering graduate, he emphasized his ability to implement technology-driven reforms in governance. He also spoke about the significant role village libraries in Ballari district play in aiding students preparing for various competitive tests.
“The administrative service is truly exceptional,” he stated, “offering both authority and the profound responsibility to bring about transformative changes in the lives of countless individuals. If your aspiration is to contribute meaningfully and serve society, then a career in administrative service is undoubtedly the right path for you.”
However, he candidly acknowledged the demanding nature of this journey, noting that preparation can often span several years. “Given the intense competition,” he advised, “success demands not just patience, but also smart, focused effort. It’s not about how many books you read, but rather how thoroughly and repeatedly you engage with a select few quality resources.”
Mr. Sumair urged attendees to dispel common misconceptions about civil services preparation. He recommended against solitary, prolonged study sessions, instead advocating for building a supportive peer group with similar aspirations. “Maintaining a healthy study-life balance and continuously acquiring necessary skill sets are crucial,” he stressed.
He advised students to recognize the distinct differences between student life and professional life, emphasizing that without developing adaptable skills, success in any chosen field would prove challenging.
To illustrate the tangible impact an IAS officer can have, Mr. Sumair cited examples such as the implementation of a rural water supply scheme in Sandur villages and the establishment of a new chili processing unit in Shiraguppi taluk, among other developmental projects.
Following Mr. Sumair, Premanand from Shankar IAS Academy provided a comprehensive overview of the civil services examination. He detailed the exam pattern, the level of competition, the optional subjects available, and other vital information for aspirants.
Premanand underscored the intense competitive landscape, stressing the necessity of a well-structured plan that also accounts for managing potential setbacks. He revealed that 30% to 40% of civil service aspirants persevere through multiple attempts, driven by a deep-seated desire to serve society.
An engaging interactive session ensued, where students posed numerous questions to the young IAS officer. Their queries covered a wide range of topics, including effective preparation strategies for competitive exams, his personal experiences with mistakes and lessons learned during his own journey, optimal timing to commence preparation, the benefits of individual study versus coaching, and the availability of government schemes for coaching support.
Earlier in the event, Prof. Yadavalli Basavaraj, Principal of BITM, extended his gratitude to The Hindu Group for their proactive efforts in raising awareness about the civil services examination. Anand Malage, Assistant General Manager (Circulation) at The Hindu, highlighted various initiatives by the organization designed to support the student community. Sham R.K., Head of Placement Relations, was also in attendance.