In a powerful example of how resilience overcomes adversity, Adiba Anam, daughter of an autorickshaw driver from Yavatmal, Maharashtra, has become the state’s first Muslim woman IAS officer. She secured All India Rank 142 in the UPSC 2024 examination, achieving what few dare to dream, especially in one of India’s most competitive and elite exams.
Yavatmal, located in Maharashtra’s agrarian belt of Vidarbha, is known for its struggles—rural poverty, farmer suicides, and underdevelopment. Adiba grew up amid this environment, deeply aware of the limitations that surrounded her. Her father, despite having to give up education due to financial strain, worked as an autorickshaw driver to support the family. With his constant support and her mother’s encouragement, Adiba pursued education with unshakable determination.
She completed her graduation in mathematics, a subject she had always excelled in during school. Focused and methodical, she decided to prepare for the civil services after college. She moved to Pune, balancing her modest means with the demands of UPSC preparation. Despite all odds, including being unsuccessful in two previous attempts—once missing the final list after reaching the interview round—she never gave up.
On her third attempt, her perseverance finally paid off. With AIR 142, Adiba is now on track to be inducted into the Indian Administrative Service. Her success was publicly acknowledged and celebrated by local leaders, including Manikrao Thakre, who highlighted her journey as a moment of pride not only for Yavatmal but for the entire state.
Her story is a landmark moment for Muslim women in Maharashtra. In a state where women from minority communities rarely reach high-level administrative roles, Adiba’s breakthrough signals change and inspires hope. It reflects the transformative power of education and the importance of equal opportunity.
Adiba’s vision now extends far beyond personal achievement. Rooted in a district marked by systemic neglect, she aspires to work on rural development, women’s education, and social justice. With deep empathy and firsthand understanding of grassroots struggles, she brings with her a perspective that is both rare and urgently needed in the corridors of power.
This historic achievement is not just about breaking barriers—it is about rewriting narratives. From a modest autorickshaw driver’s household in a small town to India’s elite bureaucratic ranks, Adiba Anam’s journey is a story of strength, discipline, and vision. She stands as a role model for countless girls across India who dream of making a difference, regardless of their circumstances.
