Becoming an IAS officer is a challenging journey that requires immense dedication and perseverance, particularly for women. It is important to acknowledge the achievements of empowered women, including those who have excelled in the prestigious role of an IAS officer. Here are the most famous female IAS officers in India.

1) Anna Rajam Malhotra

Anna Rajam Malhotra made the bold decision to pursue a career as an IAS officer during a time when the field was predominantly male-dominated, facing numerous challenges along the way. Hailing from Kerala, she belonged to the 1951 batch of officers and holds the distinction of being the first female IAS officer in India. Married to RN Malhotra, who served as the 17th Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, Anna Rajam Malhotra’s illustrious career was marked by dedicated service and outstanding achievements. Recognising her contributions, she was honoured with the prestigious Padma Bhushan Award.

2) Rajni Sekhri Sibal

IAS Rajni Sekhri Sibal, a member of the 1986 batch, has served in various capacities, including as Additional Secretary of the Disaster Management Department in the Home Ministry of the Government of India. Known for her adept handling of crises, she played a crucial role in mitigating losses during natural disasters such as floods and cyclones in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu.

3) Smita Sabharwal

Smita Sabharwal, an IAS officer from the 2001 batch belonging to the Telangana cadre, is widely recognised as one of the most accomplished and dynamic female officers in the country. Known for her proactive approach to understanding and resolving public issues, she is celebrated as a dedicated public servant. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the first woman IAS officer appointed to the Chief Minister’s Office.

4) Durga Shakti Nagpal

IAS Durga Shakti Nagpal, belonging to the 2009 batch, achieved the remarkable feat of securing the 20th rank in the UPSC examination. Currently serving as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Indian Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, she has made significant contributions in various capacities. During her tenure as a trainee IAS officer in the Punjab cadre, she played a pivotal role in uncovering a land fraud case in Mohali.

5) Tina Dabi

IAS Tina Dabi, who belongs to the 2015 batch, secured the top rank in the UPSC examination, marking a significant milestone in her career. Notably, her ex-husband, Dr Pradeep Gawande, is also an IAS officer, and her sister, Riya Dabi, shares the same profession. Coming from a family with a background in civil service, Tina Dabi has carved a niche for herself and garnered considerable popularity, especially on social media platforms.

6) Srushti Jayant Deshmukh

IAS Srushti Jayant Deshmukh, hailing from Madhya Pradesh and belonging to the 2018 batch, achieved remarkable success by securing the 5th rank in the UPSC examination. Her husband, Nagarjun Gowda, is also an IAS officer, and together, they form a popular pair on social media. Srushti Jayant Deshmukh is dedicated to improving the living standards of rural communities, and she has been instrumental in initiating the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awas Yojana. Her efforts are aimed at bringing positive change to the lives of rural citizens.

7) Pari Bishnoi

IAS Pari Bishnoi cleared the UPSC examination on her third attempt in 2019. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Delhi University and has also qualified for NET JRF. Additionally, Pari Bishnoi holds a master’s degree in Political Science from MDS University, Ajmer. Earlier, her wedding with MLA Bhavya Bishnoi garnered significant attention, with photos from the grand ceremony going viral.