New Delhi: This International Women’s Day, APAC Media proudly celebrates the incredible leadership and resilience of women who have made a significant impact in India’s civil services. Through their unwavering commitment and exceptional contributions, these 13 inspiring female IAS officers—along with many others—have shattered barriers, championed social causes and transformed governance.
Their stories are a testament to the power of determination, vision, and service, highlighting the vital role women play in leadership.
At APAC Media, we are committed to sharing impactful stories that inspire and empower, and today, we honor these remarkable women whose legacies continue to inspire generations.
1. Anna Rajam Malhotra, IAS
Anna Rajam Malhotra, born on July 17, 1927, in Kerala, made history in 1951 as India’s first female IAS officer, breaking gender barriers in civil services. Securing the top rank in the 1950 IAS exam, she played a crucial role in administration, serving as District Magistrate, Education Secretary, and Chief Secretary in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. She was also the first woman to serve as Secretary of the Union Ministry of Shipping, leading key port modernization efforts. Her trailblazing career paved the way for women in Indian bureaucracy, leaving a lasting legacy of empowerment and leadership.
2. Aruna Sundararajan, IAS
Aruna Sundararajan, a 1982 batch IAS officer from the Kerala cadre, is known for her impactful contributions to India’s administrative and digital landscape. Holding a master’s degree in economics from the Delhi School of Economics, she has been recognized for her strategic thinking and collaborative approach in public administration. As Secretary of the Department of IT in Kerala, she spearheaded the Akshaya project, an e-literacy initiative that brought digital access to rural areas, making Kerala one of India’s most digitally inclusive states. As the Secretary of the Department of Telecommunications, Govt of India, she played a key role in enhancing broadband connectivity and digital infrastructure in rural areas. A strong advocate for women’s empowerment, she has promoted gender equality in the workforce. Her leadership has significantly influenced India’s telecommunications and digital sectors.
3. Smita Sabharwal, IAS
Smita Sabharwal, born on June 19, 1977, in Hyderabad, became the youngest IAS officer in the Andhra Pradesh cadre at 23. Holding a master’s degree in economics from the Delhi School of Economics, she has served in key administrative roles, including as Additional and Joint Collector. As the Collector of Karimnagar district, she led transformative initiatives in education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment, introducing programs like “Smart Village, Smart Ward.” A strong advocate for transparency and accountability, she has received several accolades, including the Nari Shakti Puraskar. Her dedication to public service continues to inspire aspiring civil servants.
4. Ira Singhal, IAS
Ira Singhal, born on October 31, 1983, in Delhi, overcame scoliosis to achieve the top rank in the 2015 UPSC Civil Services Examination, becoming the first differently-abled woman to do so. A B.E. graduate in Computer Engineering from Delhi University, she previously worked as a software engineer at Cadence Design Systems. She later earned a Master’s in Public Administration from the Harvard Kennedy School. An advocate for inclusivity and equal opportunities for people with disabilities, her achievements have broken barriers and inspired a more inclusive approach in Indian bureaucracy.
5. Preeti Sudan, IAS
Preeti Sudan, a 1983 batch IAS officer from the Andhra cadre, held key positions at both state and national levels, including Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Defense and Secretary in the Department of Food and Public Distribution. She also worked as a consultant at the World Bank. Her most notable contributions include shaping the National Health Policy and implementing Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which provides free healthcare to India’s most vulnerable 40% population. Her efforts have been instrumental in strengthening India’s healthcare system and supporting underprivileged communities.
6. Rajni Sekhri Sibal, IAS
Rajni Sekhri Sibal, a senior IAS officer and the first woman to top the Civil Services Examination in 1986, currently serves as Secretary to the Government of India. As Additional Secretary (Disaster Management) in the Ministry of Home Affairs, she played a crucial role in coordinating relief efforts for major disasters, including the Kerala floods and multiple cyclones and droughts across India. She also held the additional charge of Executive Director at the National Institute of Disaster Management and represented India in global disaster management forums. Her book Are You Prepared for a Disaster? provides insights into disaster preparedness and risk mitigation.
7. Durga Shakti Nagpal, IAS
Durga Shakti Nagpal, a 2010 batch IAS officer, is known for her fearless fight against corruption and illegal activities. She gained national attention as SDM of Gautam Buddh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, for taking action against the powerful sand mafia, which led to her controversial suspension by the state government, sparking public outrage. Earlier, she had exposed a major land scam in Mohali, Punjab, showcasing her integrity. Despite facing opposition, she remains dedicated to public service, inspiring young civil servants with her courage and commitment to ethical governance.
8. Tina Dabi, IAS
Tina Dabi made history in 2015 as the first Dalit woman to top the UPSC examination, breaking social barriers in a field traditionally dominated by privileged groups. Born in Jaipur, Rajasthan, she earned a degree in Political Science from Lady Shri Ram College, excelling academically before securing the top rank through disciplined preparation. Beyond her administrative roles, including her tenure in the Jammu and Kashmir cadre, she actively uses social media to advocate for caste equality, gender rights, and mental health awareness. Her journey continues to inspire women and marginalized communities, proving that determination can overcome societal challenges.
9. Surabhi Gautam, IAS
Surabhi Gautam, a 2016 batch IAS officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, is known for her advocacy of women’s empowerment and the use of technology in governance. She has been instrumental in promoting digital literacy and bridging the gender gap in education. Her efforts to integrate technology into public service delivery have significantly impacted the communities she serves.
10. Pranjal Patil, IAS
Pranjal Patil, a 2017 batch IAS officer, is India’s first visually impaired woman to join the civil services. Her journey is a testament to perseverance and determination, inspiring millions. Despite the challenges posed by her disability, she remained steadfast in her pursuit of success, securing a place in the Maharashtra cadre. Her achievements have earned widespread recognition, including the prestigious NCPEDP–Mphasis Universal Design Award. Pranjal Patil’s story underscores the power of resilience and the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams.
11. Anu Kumari, IAS
Anu Kumari, a 2017 batch IAS officer of the Haryana cadre, is known for her contributions to environmental sustainability. She has actively supported initiatives in sustainable agriculture, natural resource conservation, and public awareness on environmental issues. Her dedication to these causes has established her as a notable advocate for sustainable development in India.
12. Srushti Jayant Deshmukh, IAS
Srushti Jayant Deshmukh, an IAS officer from the 2018 batch, secured the 5th rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination and is known for her strong advocacy of environmental sustainability. An engineering graduate from VIT University, she has focused on clean energy, waste management, and green development in the Madhya Pradesh cadre. Through her administrative roles, she has implemented initiatives to promote ecological conservation and reduce plastic waste. Her work exemplifies how civil servants can drive sustainable development, making her an inspiration for aspiring officers passionate about environmental change.
13. Pari Bishnoi, IAS
Pari Bishnoi, a 2018 batch IAS officer from the Rajasthan cadre, is known for her contributions to women’s empowerment and rural development. Through various initiatives, she has improved health, education, and sanitation in villages, earning admiration for her dedication and innovative problem-solving. Her efforts have significantly enhanced living conditions in the rural communities she serves.
