At IFORHER, we are celebrating Pranjal Patil’s courage and determination as India’s first visually challenged female IAS officer has taken charge as the Sub- Collector.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is one of the toughest examinations to crack. Hundreds of thousands of young minds study relentlessly in the hope to join the IAS, IPS & IFS ranks.
But, this journey was way tougher for Pranjal, who became India’s first visually-challenged woman IAS officer.
Pranjal, a native of Ulhasnagar in Maharashtra, lost her eyesight at a young age of 6. But, she never gave up. With her determination, she completed her graduation in political science with a master’s in International relations from JNU, Delhi.
She cracked the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination in 2016 and secured 773rd rank ad improved her ranking to 124 the next year.
According to the Times of India, after serving as an assistant collector in Ernakulam for a year in 2018, now Pranjal has taken charge as the Sub- Collector of Thiruvanthapuram.
While assuming charge, Pranjal shared with reporters:
“I am feeling extremely glad and proud after taking this charge. As I start working I will be able to know more about the district and would plan better for it. I expect support and co-operation from my fellow members and people of Trivandrum.”
She also gave a very inspiring message to the youth that shows her courage and determination:
“We should never be defeated and never give up. With our efforts, we will always be able to achieve what we desire.”
The 30-year old Kerala cadre officer has set an inspirational example for all of us.