Life often tests us with failures, but some turn those failures into fuel for success. IPS officer Anurag Arya, currently serving as the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Bareilly, is one such example. Despite failing in his university exam, he refused to give up and went on to crack the UPSC Civil Services Examination in his very first attempt in 2013, securing an impressive 163rd rank.
Roots in Rural Uttar Pradesh
Born on December 10, 1987, in Chhaprauli village of Baghpat district, Arya grew up in a family of doctors. His parents, deeply committed to serving their community, instilled in him the values of dedication and hard work. However, growing up in a rural environment posed challenges — he studied in a local school and initially struggled with English, a subject that later became a major hurdle in his academic life.
Turning Weakness into Strength
To overcome his language barrier and build discipline, Arya joined the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, in 2008. The rigorous environment of the IMA transformed him. Not only did he master English, but he also excelled in sports, leadership, and confidence-building activities, laying the foundation of his resilient character.
Setback at University
After completing his B.Sc. (Hons.) in Physics from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Arya pursued a Master’s degree. But life dealt him a blow when he failed two subjects in his final year of MSc. For many, this would have been the end of their dreams. But for Arya, it became a turning point.
Instead of dwelling on failure, he embraced it as an opportunity to rebuild himself. His belief that “failure is not the end, but a new beginning” pushed him to start preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
Cracking the Toughest Exam
Arya’s disciplined lifestyle, honed at the IMA, and his determination to overcome setbacks helped him crack the UPSC on his first attempt. Securing AIR 163 in 2013, he entered the Indian Police Service (IPS), a dream career that allows him to serve society directly.
Serving as SSP Bareilly
Today, Arya serves as SSP of Bareilly, where he is known for his proactive policing, people-friendly approach, and commitment to justice. His journey is a shining example for lakhs of aspirants who face failures but dream of making it big in life.
