Dreams often look impossible when life keeps throwing challenges, but for 27-year-old Moin Ahmed from Uttar Pradesh’s Moradabad district, struggle became the very fuel that pushed him towards success. Born into a modest home, raised with limited means, and surrounded by constant financial pressure, Moin still dared to aim for one of India’s toughest examinations the UPSC Civil Services Exam. Today, he is an IAS officer in the West Bengal cadre.
Tough Childhood For Moin
Moin grew up in Jatpura village under Dilari in Moradabad. His father, Wali Hasan, worked as a bus driver with UP Roadways, earning just enough to run the household. His mother, Tasleem Jahan, is a homemaker. In a family of five children, Moin is the second.
Like many youngsters, he too had childhood dreams in his case, becoming a cricketer. But cricket required money: coaching, equipment, travel. His family simply could not afford it. The reality of their financial condition forced Moin to drop the idea and step into earning mode at an early age.
Working in a local Cyber Cafe
To support the family and secure his own future, Moin began working at a local cyber cafe. He worked long hours, handled customers, and soon managed to earn a decent monthly income. It was during this time, surrounded by books, forms, and students preparing for government exams, that the thought of attempting UPSC first crossed his mind.
Mother Supported Moin’s Dream
When Moin finally announced his decision to prepare for the Civil Services, not everyone was happy. His father was worried after all, the boy had started earning, and UPSC meant leaving everything for an uncertain path. Some relatives mocked the idea and called it career suicide. But his mother stood firmly behind him. She encouraged him to chase the bigger dream.
Moving to Delhi And The Struggle Begins
In 2019, Moin quit his job and moved to Delhi to prepare full-time. To pay for coaching, rent, and food, he took a loan of Rs 2.5 lakh, a huge amount for his family.
What followed were years of stress, sacrifice, and repeated failures.
Three Failures, Zero Complaints
Moin attempted UPSC three times and failed each time. Many would have given up. But he refused. Instead of losing hope, he analysed his mistakes, changed his strategy, and kept studying.
Fourth Attempt: The Breakthrough
In 2022, Moin appeared for his fourth attempt and this time, everything changed. He secured Rank 296 in the UPSC Civil Services Exam and was allotted the IAS, West Bengal cadre.
It was a moment his entire family had waited for. His father, who once feared the decision, now proudly tells everyone about his son the IAS officer.
Symbol of Hope for Millions
Moin Ahmed’s story is an inspiration to every student sitting in a small town, every child battling financial hardship, and every dreamer told that their dreams are “too big.”
