In the demanding world of civil services, where responsibilities are significant and the stakes are high, Monika Singh stands out not just as the Additional Collector of Solapur but as an example of dedication, passion, and the positive impact of a balanced life. Beyond her important administrative role, Ms Singh is a person with many interests – an author, a talented poet, and an inspiring athlete. In an exclusive interview with Indian Masterminds, she shared her compelling journey, offering valuable insights into the challenges and successes of a career focused on public service.
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Monika Singh’s path to the civil services was not a direct one. Initially, she aimed for a career in medicine. “For me, it was like first I wanted to join medical,” she recalls, having carefully prepared for an MBBS degree. Just barely missing admission based on her 12th-grade marks and facing the high costs of private medical colleges, she changed direction. It was her brother, then studying for state services exams, who introduced her to the field of civil service.
Her journey through the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) exams required a lot of patience and strong will. Her first attempt in 1996 led to a Class 2 accounts officer position. Not discouraged, she tried again, getting a desk officer role in the Mantralaya cadre. It was on her third try that she finally reached her goal, becoming a Deputy Collector. “It needed a lot of patience from me,” she explains, noting that many people might have stopped trying after securing a good government job. Monika Singh, however, was driven by a deeper purpose.
Notably, her success in the MPSC exams came as a side benefit of her preparation for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams. “I never prepared separately for state services,” she reveals. Even though she reached the mains in her last UPSC attempt, she couldn’t get an interview, showing the tough competition. However, her earlier success in the MPSC meant she returned to Maharashtra as a Deputy Collector, which shows her consistent effort.
As the Additional Collector of Solapur, Monika Singh’s main duties involve land matters. She is the authority for appeals regarding land-related orders made by subdivisional officers and makes important decisions about various land disagreements. Her role is crucial in ensuring fairness and efficient administration in this important area.
Beyond the demanding work in her office, Monika Singh is a strong supporter of fitness. Her dedication to physical health is deeply rooted, going back to her childhood. “Fitness was part of my thinking since I know it means I remember in my childhood; also, I used to go for a walk with my aunt,” she shares. From college gym sessions to her current love for running, fitness has always been a part of her life. Her commitment is so strong that even when she’s posted to a new place, her first priority is finding a gym.
Her dedication to running really grew about ten years ago, inspired by her brother and husband, who also run. Today, running is her main physical activity. She says her mental strength, which is important for her high-pressure job, comes directly from her physical fitness. “Mental toughness comes from physical toughness only,” she states.
Monika Singh understands that many people find it hard to balance work and life. Her advice is simple but meaningful: “Actually willpower is missing there.” Despite working late, she consistently wakes up at 4:00 AM for her morning routine. She smartly moves her long runs to earlier times if official meetings conflict, showing her firm commitment. While she inspires those around her, she observes that maintaining fitness routines among colleagues is often difficult due to perceived time limits. However, she believes, “Once you start doing it, then you also see a way out.”
Her biggest achievement in fitness, she says, isn’t just one race but the combined effect of her marathons and regular training. The 65-kilometer run she recently finished shows the endurance she has built over years. This physical strength leads to better immunity, increased mental stamina, and a clear sense of positivity that affects all her interactions.
For those aiming for civil services, Monika Singh offers a powerful message: “You come to do a lot for people… come with the intention that when you are there in the system, you can bring a lot of change and can do a lot of justice with people.” She stresses that the main purpose of civil services is to serve ordinary people, especially those who need fairness. To fitness lovers, and indeed to everyone, she advises to “start doing it and see the change inside you. You will yourself start loving yourself.” She believes that making fitness a regular part of your life can truly improve your life, leading to more happiness and a positive outlook.
Monika Singh’s journey continues. In the upcoming second part of this exclusive interview, she will discuss her other interests – her passion for poetry and her books, promising another interesting conversation with this truly inspiring individual.
