Meet UP's 'Lady Singham' & Sharp DMs: Powerful Women IAS Officers Making National Impact

• IAS B. Chandrakala, known as 'Lady Singham', is celebrated for her outspoken style and administrative work, now Secretary of Forest, Environment, and Climate Change.
• IAS Durga Shakti Nagpal, a 2010 batch officer, is currently the District Magistrate of Lakhimpur Kheri, achieving 20th rank in her second UPSC attempt.
• IAS Ritu Maheshwari, a 2003 batch officer, left a family business to become an IAS, now Secretary in Medical Education, Health, and Family Welfare.
• IAS Divya Mittal, DM of Deoria, cleared UPSC in her first attempt without coaching, securing an AIR 68 in her second attempt to become an IAS.
• IAS Kritika Jyotsna, a 2014 batch officer, is the current District Magistrate of Basti, recognized for her sharp and sensitive administrative approach.

Key Questions Answered

How are women IAS officers transforming governance in Uttar Pradesh?

Women IAS officers are establishing new benchmarks in Uttar Pradesh's administration through their capability, leadership, and dedication.

What challenges do women IAS officers face in their careers?

Women IAS officers face systemic bias in evaluation frameworks and a lack of representation in higher courts. Their career progression can be hindered when assessment becomes subjective.

How can more women be encouraged to join civil services?

Encouraging more women to join civil services can be achieved by addressing subjective assessment biases and promoting equal opportunities.