There is a widespread belief among aspirants and the general public alike that candidates for India’s prestigious civil services must study intensely and sacrifice much in their personal lives to pass the challenging UPSC exam. Known as the Union Public Service Commission Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE), this examination is not only highly esteemed but is also regarded as one of the most difficult tests globally. Numerous stories circulate about candidates who isolate themselves, dedicating almost every waking hour to their studies to ensure success. Yet, the story of Smita Sabharwal stands out as she managed to balance intense study sessions with equally refreshing breaks, achieving what many aspire to.
Born on June 19, 1977, Smita Sabharwal (née Smitha Das) hails from the picturesque town of Darjeeling in West Bengal. Her father, Pranab Das, served in the Indian Army and retired as a colonel, eventually settling the family in Hyderabad. Smita’s formative years were spent in this vibrant city, where she completed her schooling, a journey that would lay a solid foundation for her future endeavors. Smita attended St. Ann’s in Marredpally, Hyderabad, for her high school education. Noteworthy is her exceptional performance in her ICSE Board class XII exams, where she secured the top overall rank in India. Following this, she pursued a B.Com degree at St. Francis Degree College for Women.
The path to cracking the UPSC exam demands not only intellectual rigor but also a strategic approach. Smita followed a disciplined routine of studying for six hours every day. However, what distinguishes her method was her emphasis on taking frequent short breaks to rejuvenate. She made it a point to stay well-informed on current affairs, regularly reading newspapers and magazines. For her civil services examination, her elective subjects included Anthropology and Public Administration—choices that would later prove beneficial in her career.
Smita’s journey to the top wasn’t without setbacks.
. She failed the preliminary exam on her first attempt. However, her perseverance paid off, and on her second attempt in 2000, she secured the fourth rank nation-wide, emerging as one of the top scorers. Her outstanding performance led to her selection for the Andhra Pradesh cadre of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
Throughout her illustrious career, Smita Sabharwal has decorated her cap with numerous accolades. Perhaps one of the most significant milestones was her appointment to the Telangana Chief Minister’s Office, making history as the first female IAS officer to hold such a position. She now serves as the Telangana CM’s Secretary. Additionally, she plays a critical role as the Secretary for Mission Bhagiratha and the Secretary of the Rural Water Supply Department.
Smita’s tenure as District Collector in Medak and Karimnagar has garnered widespread admiration. Her appointment as the District Collector of Karimnagar in 2011 was particularly noteworthy. During her tenure, she implemented various innovative approaches to governance, significantly improving the quality of life for the district’s residents.
One of the qualities that set Smita apart from many of her contemporaries is her active presence on social media. She has amassed more than 400,000 followers on Twitter, where she frequently discusses women’s issues and shares her professional experiences. On Instagram, she offers a glimpse into her personal and professional life, regularly posting videos and photos. Smita’s engagement with the public extends beyond her administrative duties, echoing her commitment to social causes and inspiring future generations.
Currently, Smita serves as the Member Secretary for the TS Finance Corporation. She took over this role from another IAS officer, Sandeep Kumar Sultania, who was relieved of the associated responsibilities. Her continuous dedication and unparalleled commitment to her work have made her a role model for many.
Smita Sabharwal’s journey exemplifies how balance, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence can lead to remarkable achievements. Her story continues to inspire countless individuals who dream of making a significant impact through civil services.
