Smita Sabharwal IAS : From Field to Finance

Smita Sabharwal is an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 2001 batch, belonging to the Telangana cadre. She is known for her dedication to public service and her innovative approach to solving problems.

Here are some of her key achievements:

  • Topped the ICSE exams in 1995
  • Secured All India fourth rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2000
  • First woman IAS Officer to be appointed to the Chief Minister's Office in Telangana
  • Secretary to CM, Government of Telangana
  • Holds additional charge as Secretary, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Department (Mission Bhagiratha Department)
  • Implemented the "Fund your City" scheme while serving as the Municipal Commissioner at Warangal, which led to the construction of a large number of public utilities through public-private partnerships
  • Made significant contributions in the Health and Education sectors during her stints as the District Collector of Karimnagar and Medak
  • Earned the nickname "The People's Officer" for her dedication to addressing citizen issues and involving people in the decision-making proces

Sabharwal is an inspiration to many aspiring IAS officers and is widely admired for her integrity, dedication, and commitment to public service.

Here are some additional details about Sabharwal:

  • She was born in Darjeeling, West Bengal, to an Army officer father and a homemaker mother.
  • She was a brilliant student throughout her academic career, topping the ICSE exams and graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad.
  • She cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2000 at the age of 22, securing All India fourth rank.
  • She has been posted to various districts in Telangana throughout her career, including Karimnagar, Medak, Warangal, and Hyderabad.
  • She is an active social media user and regularly interacts with citizens on platforms like Facebook and Twitter


Her media coverage so far - 

October 27, 2023: Smita Sabharwal takes on the new role of Member Secretary of the Telangana Finance Corporation. This follows her transfer from the Chief Minister's Office during a major reshuffle of IAS officers in the state. (Source: The Hindu)

October 26, 2023: Sabharwal's legal battle against Outlook magazine continues. She sued the publication for alleged sexist remarks made by a reporter during an interview. (Source: NDTV)

September 2023: Sabharwal remains vocal about women's rights and empowerment, speaking out against harassment and advocating for equal opportunities. (Source: Smita Sabharwal's Twitter)


August 2023: Following her transfer, Sabharwal remains a high-profile figure in Telangana, with media speculating about her future political aspirations. (Source: The New Indian Express)

July 2023: Sabharwal receives public praise for her handling of the coronavirus pandemic in Telangana, particularly her efforts to ensure food security for vulnerable populations. (Source: Telangana Today)

June 2023: Sabharwal's tenure as Secretary to the Chief Minister comes to an end after nearly nine years. Her contributions to various initiatives, including Mission Bhagiratha (rural water supply), are recognized. (Source: The Times of India)

May 2023: Sabharwal faces controversy after a deputy tahsildar allegedly trespasses into her home at night. The incident sparks discussions about the safety and security of female officials. (Source: NDTV)

April 2023: Sabharwal continues to be a popular figure on social media, engaging with citizens and advocating for various causes.