At an age when many children are learning to walk, speak, and play freely, Manvendra Singh was facing challenges that made even the simplest movements difficult. Born with cerebral palsy, a neurological condition that affects muscle coordination and body movement, he spent much of his early childhood struggling with tasks that most people take for granted.
Walking without support, maintaining balance, holding objects steadily, and writing neatly were all difficult for him. His condition affected his motor skills from infancy, which meant that every stage of growing up required extra effort.
Despite these challenges, Manvendra did not allow his condition to define the course of his life. Today, at the age of 24, he has achieved what many aspirants dream of. He cracked the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2025 in his very first attempt and secured an all-India rank of 112, earning a place in the Indian Engineering Services.
For his family in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, the result is more than just a rank. It reflects years of treatment, sacrifice, family support, and determination.
EARLY CHILDHOOD AND FAMILY SUPPORT
Manvendra’s childhood was not easy. He lost his father when he was still very young, and much of his upbringing took place at his grandmother’s house. His family, however, never allowed him to feel limited because of his physical condition.
When he was just six months old, the family began searching for treatments that could help improve his mobility and strength. Over the years, Manvendra underwent several kinds of therapy and medical care. Physiotherapy became a regular part of his routine. Alongside that, his family also explored allopathic treatment, Ayurveda, homeopathy, and naturopathy.
These treatments demanded patience and consistency. Progress came slowly, but it did come.
With time, Manvendra gradually developed better control over his movements. Encouraged constantly by his grandparents and other family members, he learned to walk on his own. Each small achievement gave him more confidence.
His family made sure he never saw himself as different from other children. Instead of focusing on what he could not do, they focused on helping him improve what he could.
A STRONG ACADEMIC RECORD
Even while dealing with physical difficulties, Manvendra remained focused on studies. He performed exceptionally well in school and regularly ranked among the best students in his class.
He secured a place in the top 10 in both Class 10 and Class 12 examinations. His academic performance made it clear that while his body may have needed more support, his mind was sharp and capable.
Teachers and classmates noticed his dedication early on. He was known for being disciplined, focused, and sincere in his studies.
His strong academic foundation later helped him prepare for one of the toughest entrance examinations in the country.
CRACKING JEE
After school, Manvendra set his sights on engineering. He prepared for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), one of India’s most competitive exams for admission to top engineering institutes.
He cleared JEE in his first attempt and secured the 63rd rank. This achievement opened the doors to IIT Patna, where he enrolled in a BTech programme.
For many students, moving to an IIT campus is the first major step toward independence. For Manvendra, it was even more significant.
Life at IIT Patna required him to manage almost everything on his own. Hostel life came with responsibilities that many students find challenging even without physical limitations.
He cycled around four kilometres every day to attend classes and move around campus. He cooked his own meals, washed his clothes, managed his studies, and lived independently without depending on others for daily support.
This routine was demanding, but it shaped his personality. It taught him how to organise his time, maintain discipline, and stay focused even when things became difficult.
Those years at IIT not only strengthened his academic skills but also gave him the confidence to take on bigger goals.
PREPARING FOR UPSC ENGINEERING SERVICES EXAMINATION
After completing his engineering studies, Manvendra decided to prepare for the UPSC Engineering Services Examination.
Every year, thousands of engineering graduates appear for the exam, but only a small number are selected.
The examination tests candidates across multiple stages, including technical knowledge, analytical ability, and personality.
For Manvendra, preparing for the exam required a carefully planned routine. He had already developed the habit of self-discipline during his years at IIT, and that experience helped him stay consistent.
He focused on understanding concepts thoroughly, revising regularly, and practising previous years’ papers. Since it was his first attempt, he knew he had to make every day count.
His hard work paid off when the results were announced.
Manvendra secured All India Rank 112 in the UPSC Engineering Services Examination and earned selection to the Indian Engineering Services.
Achieving such a rank in the first attempt is rare and highly respected, especially in an examination where many candidates spend years preparing.
FAMILY’S PRIDE AND PUBLIC RECOGNITION
Manvendra’s success has brought immense happiness to his family.
His mother, Renu Singh, who works as the principal of a Montessori school, has often spoken about her faith in her son’s abilities. She believed that he was capable of achieving something meaningful if he stayed focused.
She credits much of his confidence to the support given by his grandparents, who stood by him from the beginning.
Today, Manvendra is being recognised not just as a successful candidate but also as an example for young people facing difficulties in life.
His journey has inspired many students who feel discouraged because of personal or physical challenges.
He also comes from a family that values education and public service. He has a brother and a sister, and his sister is currently preparing for UPSC as well.
MORE THAN A RANK
Manvendra Singh’s story is not only about securing AIR 112 or joining the Indian Engineering Services. It is also about learning to move forward despite limitations, believing in gradual progress, and making the most of every opportunity.
From struggling with basic movement as a child to studying at IIT Patna and cracking UPSC ESE in his first attempt, his journey reflects years of effort and support.
His life shows that success is not always about speed or easy circumstances. Sometimes, it comes from taking one difficult step at a time and refusing to stop.
