In the list of 1009 successful candidates in the UPSC 2024, there is a remarkable story of resilience and determination. Among these achievers is Dev Prabhakar Tomar, who secured 629th rank despite facing numerous challenges. What makes Dev’s story stand out is his unique lineage — his grandfather was once a notorious Chambal dacoit, but today, his grandson has carved out a name for himself as a successful UPSC candidate.

A Legacy of Change: From Dacoits to Dreamers

Dev hails from a small village in Morena, Gwalior Chambal, an area historically infamous for its dacoit culture. His grandfather, Ramgovind Singh Tomar, was a feared dacoit whose name was once synonymous with terror in the Chambal region. However, Dev chose a different path, one of education, discipline, and service.

Unlike his grandfather, who lived by violence, Dev was shaped by his father’s values. His father, Balveer Tomar, was a teacher who instilled in him the importance of education and hard work. Dev chose to pursue his dreams, leaving behind the shadow of his grandfather’s past to rise above it.

A Journey of Determination

Dev's road to success was not a smooth one. His UPSC journey took six attempts, with the first three being particularly tough. Though he reached the interview stage on multiple occasions, he couldn’t make the final cut. Despite the setbacks, he refused to give up. The lessons of perseverance, honed by his father, kept him moving forward.

Interestingly, before pursuing UPSC full-time, Dev had a lucrative job at Philips in the Netherlands. In 2019, he secured a high-paying position with an annual package of ₹88 lakhs. But despite the comfort and success this job offered, Dev chose to follow his true passion. He turned down his family’s advice and left his job after just one and a half years, deciding to give UPSC his full attention.

Hard Work Pays Off

Dev's commitment to his goal paid off in his sixth attempt, when he finally succeeded with a 629th rank. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the value of hard work, and the courage to follow one’s dreams, no matter the odds. His mother, Pushpa, is incredibly proud of her son’s achievements, and his father, Balveer Tomar, holds his head high with pride.

Dev’s story is a source of inspiration, not just for those who dream of joining the civil services, but for anyone who believes in the power of transformation and determination. From being born into a family with a legacy of violence to becoming a role model for others, Dev Prabhakar Tomar has truly rewritten his family’s history.