Visually impaired Manu Garg clears UPSC at 23, credits unwavering support of his mother

Manu Garg

At just 23 years old, Manu Garg has become a symbol of resilience and determination, defying the odds to clear the prestigious UPSC Civil Services Examination 2025. Despite being visually impaired, Manu’s story is one of remarkable perseverance, highlighting how a mother’s unconditional support and modern technology can help overcome even the most daunting challenges.

Manu’s journey took an unexpected turn when he lost his eyesight in the 8th grade. For many, such an event would have felt like the end of the road, but Manu’s spirit remained unbroken. The simple tasks that others take for granted became monumental challenges. Yet, his mother, a constant source of love and encouragement, became his guiding light. "She would sit beside me every day, patiently reading out lessons, helping me understand every word and concept," says Manu.

Her dedication was not limited to just reading aloud. She helped Manu navigate his education with patience and determination, ensuring that his dreams didn’t fade away with his sight. "She became my eyes, helping me visualize the world that I couldn’t see," he adds.

After completing his 12th grade, Manu made the decision to embrace technology as a means to study independently. Audiobooks, screen readers, and TalkBack tools on his phone became his study companions. These innovations allowed him to access study materials and lectures that he would have otherwise found difficult to understand.

At Hindu College, Delhi University, Manu not only adjusted to his new way of learning but excelled. He topped in Political Science, securing the second rank in his batch. His passion for academics was evident, and he quickly made a name for himself as a star debater, winning over 150 competitions. Manu’s thirst for knowledge and commitment to excellence was clear to everyone around him.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Manu’s ambitions grew larger. It was then that he decided to take on the formidable UPSC exam, one of the toughest exams in India. However, the journey was anything but easy. With study materials often unavailable in accessible formats, Manu had to adapt yet again.

He relied on his friends, who would send him voice notes on WhatsApp. These notes would then be converted into PDFs, which Manu could listen to and revise using the TalkBack feature on his phone. His mother continued to be his pillar of strength, sitting with him through countless hours, helping him absorb every piece of information. "She made sure that I didn’t miss out on anything," Manu recalls, reflecting on their tireless efforts together.

Manu also took coaching classes from PhysicsWallah (PW), under the PWOnlyIAS initiative.

Manu’s success story serves as an inspiration to others who face challenges in life, showing that with perseverance and a little help, any dream is achievable.