Trilok Singh: UPSC AIR 20 2024: Biography, Education, Attempts, and more

The UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024 results, announced on April 22, 2025, recognized the efforts of aspirants across the country—and among them stood Trilok Singh, who achieved All India Rank 20. His journey is a powerful reminder that determination and strategic correction can help aspirants bounce back, even after early failures.

Who is Trilok Singh?

Hailing from Bhakri Village in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Trilok was born in Delhi’s Army Referral Hospital. He comes from a proud military family—his father served in the Indian Army for 28 years. Naturally, Trilok initially aspired to join the armed forces. However, a medical disqualification in 2019 altered his course and prompted him to pursue a career in civil services instead.

Trilok Singh: UPSC Profile Overview

Educational Background

Trilok holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Kirori Mal College, Delhi University. He later pursued a Master’s degree in Political Science from Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur. This academic combination provided him with both analytical depth and a strong grasp of governance-related concepts—skills that proved invaluable in UPSC.

UPSC Journey: From Setback to Success

Trilok Singh attempted the UPSC Civil Services Examination three times. After two unsuccessful tries, he realized that it wasn’t just hard work but smart preparation and self-reflection that would make the difference.

In his third attempt, he:

• Focused on answer writing: Improved structure, flow, and balance in Mains responses

• Joined peer review groups: Actively exchanged feedback to refine arguments

• Strategically revised PSIR: Gained deep conceptual clarity in Political Science & International Relations, his optional subject

• Maintained disciplined routines: Balanced static topics, current affairs, and test series

This refined approach led to a remarkable AIR 20 in UPSC CSE 2024.

UPSC Interview Experience

Trilok's personality test was broad and demanding. He was asked about:

• India’s interests in Baluchistan

• Tourism comparisons between Odisha and Uttar Pradesh

• His views on international relations and regional development

His ability to offer informed, balanced, and well-articulated responses left a strong impression on the board.

Message for Aspirants

Reflecting on his journey, Trilok offers a powerful lesson:

“You may fail twice, but if you stand tall the third time, you fly.”

His story is a real-life example of grit, especially for aspirants from non-humanities backgrounds, proving that with the right mix of strategy, reflection, and discipline, success in UPSC is achievable.

FAQs related to Trilok Singh

Q1. Who is Trilok Singh in the context of UPSC CSE 2024?

Ans. Trilok Singh secured All India Rank 20 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, marking a significant achievement in his third attempt.

Q2. What is Trilok Singh’s educational background?

Ans. He holds a B.Sc. in Mathematics from Kirori Mal College (DU) and an M.A. in Political Science from Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur.

Q3. Which optional subject did Trilok Singh choose for UPSC?

Ans. He chose Political Science & International Relations (PSIR) as his optional subject.

Q4. How did Trilok Singh overcome initial failures in UPSC?

Ans. He refined his strategy by focusing on answer writing, joining peer review groups, and revising PSIR deeply, which led to his success in the third attempt.

Q5. What is Trilok Singh’s message to UPSC aspirants?

Ans. “You may fail twice, but if you stand tall the third time, you fly.” His journey underscores the value of resilience and strategic preparation.

Top 20 UPSC 2024 Toppers list