IAS at 40 after 6 Failed Attempts: How Nisa Unnirajan, a mother of 2 with hearing impairment cracked UPSC

For many, the dream of becoming an IAS officer feels like a young person's race. But Nisa Unnirajan from Kerala proved that a true dream has no age limit. At a time when many set their ambitions aside, Nisa decided to pick hers up. At 35, she began a journey that would change her life.

Her path was far from easy. Her days were a delicate balancing act. She was not just an aspirant; she was a mother to two young daughters, a professional with a job, and the heart of her home. Her mornings started early, preparing her girls for school, managing household work, and then heading to her day job. When the sun went down and her family settled in, her second shift would begin. The quiet of the night became her classroom, dedicated to preparing for one of the toughest exams in the country—the UPSC Civil Services Examination.

What makes her story even more remarkable is the challenge she faced with her health. Nisa lives with a significant hearing impairment. Instead of seeing it as a barrier, she found inspiration in another officer, Kottayam's Sub-Collector Ranjit, who had overcome a similar condition. This showed her that her dream was within reach.

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Her success was not a solitary achievement. Her husband, Arun, and her in-laws stood firmly by her side. They shared the responsibilities at home and encouraged her every step of the way. "My husband and in-laws supported me at every step," Nisa said in an interview. "This would not have been possible without them."

Her preparation strategy was smart and focused. She broke down the vast UPSC syllabus into small, manageable parts, making detailed notes for quick revision. To keep her motivation high, she would often read the success stories of other UPSC toppers, drawing strength from their journeys.

The road was long, and success did not come overnight. It took her seven attempts. But Nisa’s perseverance never wavered. Her dedication finally paid off when she cleared the UPSC CSE in 2024, achieving an All India Rank of 1000. She was 40 years old, a mother, a wife, and now, an IAS officer.

Today, IAS Nisa Unnirajan serves as the Assistant Audit Officer in Thiruvananthapuram. Her story is a powerful reminder that it is never too late to chase your dreams. With a supportive family, unwavering determination, and a smart plan, even the most formidable challenges can be overcome. She didn't just clear an exam; she redefined what is possible.