UPSC Success Story: Inspiring story of B Abdul Nasar from a newspaper delivery boy to an IAS officer

The Civil Services examination is known as one of India's most challenging competitive exams. With a year of focused study and years of preparation, aspirants transform into capable administrators. Numerous students opt for coaching institutes and pay hefty fees, but the dream of only a few aspirants gets fulfilled. However, for candidates from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, accessing coaching can be challenging.One similar example is seen in the journey of IAS officer B Abdul Nasar.
It may sound surprising to you that IAS B Abdul Nasar did not clear the UPSC exam, yet he managed to reach the position of an IAS officer. Yes, it's true! Now, the next question rolling in your mind must be 'How'? Let's find out and know more about this interesting and inspiring journey.
Hailing from Thalasseri in Kerala's Kannur district, Nasar lost his father at the tender age of 5. Consequently, he and his siblings lived in an orphanage while their mother supported the family by working as a domestic helper. Despite the challenges, Nasar completed his schooling, spending a total of 13 years in a Keralan orphanage. At the age of 10, he worked as a cleaner and a hotel supplier to contribute to his family's livelihood.
Later, he did his graduation from Thalassery's government college. B Abdul Nasar supported his family through a variety of jobs, including newspaper delivery, offering tuition classes, and working as a phone operator.
In 1994, Nasar commenced his career as an government employee within the Kerala Health Department after obtaining his postgraduate degree. Nevertheless, through his commitment to public service and diligent efforts, he gradually got promotions, eventually reaching to the role of Deputy Collector in the State Civil Service by 2006.
In 2015, Nassar received recognition as Kerala’s top Deputy Collector, leading to his promotion to the rank of IAS officer in 2017. He served as the Housing Commissioner to the Government of Kerala before assuming the role of District Collector of Kollam in 2019.
Hence, the inspiring journey of IAS Abdul Nasar from humble beginnings to success serves as a heartwarming and motivating story for UPSC aspirants facing similar challenges.
Meanwhile, the Union Public Service Commission is scheduled to conduct the UPSC Civil Services Examination Prelims 2024 on June 16. Earlier, the exam was scheduled for May 26 which was later rescheduled due to Lok Sabha Elections 2024.