IAS Officer Zaffar Iqbal Inspires Students with His Journey to Success

IAS officer Zaffar Iqbal recently inspired students at the Udaan event in Dharamshala, sharing his journey of resilience and determination. He emphasized the importance of a strong mindset, adaptability, and strategic planning in achieving success. Iqbal's personal experiences, including his challenges and eventual triumph in the civil services examination, resonated with the audience, particularly young girls. His message encouraged students to view education as a tool for empowerment and to remain focused on their aspirations despite obstacles. The session left a profound impact, motivating students to face challenges with confidence and clarity.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 31, 2025, 14:08 IST

Empowering Students at Udaan Event

S Gopal Puri
Dharamshala: During a recent gathering at the Girls Government Senior Secondary School in Dharamshala, IAS officer Zaffar Iqbal shared valuable insights with students, emphasizing that a strong mindset and dedication are essential for achieving success. His address was part of the Udaan event, organized in partnership with Aarni University, aimed at guiding students in their career paths.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Iqbal highlighted that resilience, adaptability, and a well-defined strategy can turn repeated setbacks into eventual success.

Currently, he holds the position of Managing Director at KCC Bank and serves as the Commissioner of the Dharamshala Municipal Corporation. Iqbal openly discussed the arduous journey he undertook to realize his dream of becoming an IAS officer.

“A strong mentality is crucial for achieving any goal in life,” he advised, particularly encouraging young girls to trust in their abilities and remain focused on their dreams despite challenges.

Iqbal shared that his educational and professional journey was not straightforward. He initially pursued a degree in computer science, later transitioning to civil engineering, and faced several unsuccessful attempts at the civil services examination over a span of four years.

Instead of losing hope, he reevaluated his strategy. In the final year of his preparation, he made a significant change in his optional subjects, opting for anthropology, which resonated more with his interests, alongside public administration.

“What is most important is not to rigidly adhere to one method, but to be honest about what works for you,” he stated. “I altered everything — my subjects, my strategy — but my goal remained unchanged.” This clarity, he noted, was vital in keeping him motivated through years of uncertainty.

His determination finally paid off in 2017, culminating in years of effort that began in 2012. Iqbal described this achievement as a result of consistent hard work and self-belief, asserting that “when your intent is clear and your efforts are sincere, nature responds.”

In his address to the students, he underscored the significance of planning and strategy in conjunction with determination. He pointed out that talent alone is insufficient; success demands ongoing assessment, adaptability, and the bravery to implement necessary changes. He urged students to view education not merely as a pathway to employment but as a means of empowerment and service.

The session left a lasting impact on the audience, with students expressing that it was both motivating and relatable. School officials expressed gratitude to Iqbal for sharing his real-life story of perseverance and discipline, noting that his journey would inspire students to confront challenges with confidence and a clear sense of purpose.