Ummul Kher: Overcoming Rare Disease to Achieve UPSC Success

Ummul Kher's Inspiring Journey

Ummul Kher battled a rare condition known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta, often referred to as brittle bone disorder. This illness rendered her bones extremely fragile, making them susceptible to fractures even from minor injuries.

Despite facing significant physical challenges, Ummul transformed her struggles into a source of strength through education. While her condition posed obstacles, it did not deter her from reaching her goals.

Teaching Children from a Slum

Ummul's financial situation was also challenging. She spent part of her life in a slum near Hazrat Nizamuddin in Delhi. To support her family, she began tutoring other children while still in school. Balancing her studies with newfound responsibilities, she persevered despite economic hardships, which only fueled her determination to succeed.

Making Strategic Educational Choices

During her higher education, Ummul made pivotal decisions focused on her aspirations. She opted to study International Studies at JNU instead of Clinical Psychology. During this time, she received a JRF fellowship, which provided financial support for her studies and UPSC preparation, allowing her to manage her time and resources effectively.

Enduring Painful Braces for a Decade

Ummul's resilience is evident in her use of heavy plastic braces for nearly ten years to aid her mobility. She described the pain these braces caused, often leading to skin abrasions. Nevertheless, she remained committed to attending college and continuing her education. Her discipline and consistency were crucial elements of her journey.

After years of hard work and preparation, Ummul Kher successfully passed the UPSC exam on her first attempt, becoming an officer in the Indian Revenue Service in the 2017 batch. Throughout her journey, she faced numerous challenges, including financial struggles and health issues, even dealing with visa complications that prevented her from representing India in South Korea. Yet, she never wavered in her efforts.