A. Abdullah Afridh, 25, from Al-Ameen Colony in Coimbatore, who is unable to walk without assistance and has a visual impairment, has cleared the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination in his first attempt.

He secured the 942nd rank in the country and the second rank among candidates in the persons with disabilities category in the examination held last year.

Born prematurely at six-and-a-half months, Mr. Afridh developed severe physical disabilities owing to inadequate growth of several organs. Despite requiring assistance for mobility and daily activities, he completed his school and college education and went on to pursue his Civil Services dream.

After completing a postgraduate degree in Economics in 2024, Mr. Afridh began preparing for the Civil Services Examination with the support of a coaching centre. He relied largely on audio-based learning and underwent coaching from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day before clearing the examination. He subsequently appeared for the personality test in New Delhi.

Speaking to The Hindu, Mr. Afridh credited his achievement to the support extended by his parents and teachers. His father, Abdul Azeem, a daily wage earner in a jewellery workshop, read textbooks aloud to him during his school and college years because of his visual impairment, he said.

Mr. Afridh said aspirants should not be intimidated by the Civil Services Examination. Though it was regarded as one of the toughest examinations in the country, sustained effort could help candidates succeed, he said.