A Historic Achievement in Civil Services
Adiba Anam, the daughter of a rented auto-rickshaw driver from Yavatmal, Maharashtra, has secured All India Rank 142 in the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2024. With this milestone, she is set to become the first Muslim woman IAS officer from Maharashtra, breaking barriers of social and economic limitations.
Humble Beginnings and Strong Values
Adiba was raised in a rented house and studied in government schools in Yavatmal. Her father, Ashfaque Ahmed, earns a living by driving a rented auto-rickshaw and is also a poet. Despite financial hardships, her parents remained committed to her education.
“We didn’t have much, but we believed in her dreams,” said her father.
From Medicine to Mission UPSC
Initially, Adiba aimed to become a doctor. However, the high cost of medical education made it impossible. It was then that Nizamuddin Shaikh from Seva NGO introduced her to the idea of civil services, sparking a new ambition.
After completing her B.Sc. in Mathematics from Inamdar Senior College, Pune, she joined UPSC coaching. She received foundational training at Haj House and further preparation at Jamia Millia Islamia’s Residential Coaching Academy.
Since Yavatmal lacks quality coaching institutes, she had to move to Pune to pursue her goal.
Perseverance Through Four Attempts
Adiba faced several challenges on her UPSC journey:
- First Three Attempts: No selection.
- One Interview Round: Did not make the final list.
- Fourth Attempt: Cracked the exam with AIR 142.
Her story proves that hard work, consistency, and belief can overcome any obstacle.
A Role Model for Future Generations
Adiba plans to dedicate her life to uplifting girls and underprivileged communities. Her success has become a source of pride in her hometown, with local leaders and the public praising her achievement.
She didn’t have the advantages of a big city, private schooling, or financial stability — but she had determination, vision, and unwavering support from her family.
