When it comes to inspiring stories of determination and excellence, few stand out as prominently as that of Ankur Garg, IAS. Known as the youngest IAS officer in India at the age of 22, Ankur Garg’s journey from an engineering student at IIT Delhi to topping the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2002 is nothing short of remarkable. His academic brilliance, coupled with a passion for public service, has made him a role model for UPSC aspirants and young professionals across the country. In this detailed biography, we’ll explore Ankur Garg’s early life, education, UPSC success, career milestones, and personal life, offering insights into what makes him a standout figure in India’s administrative landscape.
Early Life and Family Background of Ankur Garg
Ankur Garg was born in Patiala, Punjab, into a family deeply rooted in academics and medicine. His father, Dr. Kuldeep Garg, is a renowned plastic surgeon, while his mother, Dr. Praveen Garg, is a respected child specialist. Both parents worked at Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala, setting a high standard of professional excellence for Ankur and his sister. Growing up in a household of doctors, Ankur was exposed to discipline, hard work, and a commitment to serving society from an early age—values that would later shape his career choices.
Interestingly, while his sister pursued an MBBS from Lady Hardinge Medical College, Ankur charted a different path. His fascination with technology and problem-solving led him to the field of engineering, a decision that laid the foundation for his academic and professional success. From as early as the third standard, Ankur harbored a dream of becoming an IAS officer—a goal that would drive him through years of rigorous preparation and dedication.
Education: From IIT Delhi to Harvard University
Ankur Garg’s educational journey is a testament to his intellectual prowess and relentless pursuit of knowledge. After excelling in his school years, he secured admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, one of India’s top engineering institutions. Between 1998 and 2002, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, a field that aligned with his interest in emerging technologies.
During his time at IIT Delhi, Ankur didn’t limit himself to academics alone. He gained international exposure through internships at renowned institutions in Paris, France, and Lausanne, Switzerland. These experiences broadened his perspective and sharpened his analytical skills, qualities that would later prove invaluable in his civil services career. Despite lucrative job offers from top private-sector companies—some promising six-figure salaries—Ankur remained steadfast in his ambition to serve the nation through the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
Years later, after establishing himself as an IAS officer, Ankur furthered his education by enrolling at Harvard University. Between 2018 and 2020, he pursued a Master’s in Public Administration in International Development, an economics-oriented program. His academic excellence shone through once again when he scored an astonishing 171 out of 170 in Macroeconomics—a feat attributed to bonus points and exceptional performance. His degree was signed by Professor Jeffrey Frankel, a globally recognized macroeconomist, adding further prestige to his achievement. At Harvard, Ankur was also honored with the Raymond Vernon Award, recognizing his dedication to international development.
UPSC Journey: Topping the Civil Services Exam at 22
Ankur Garg’s rise to fame came in 2002, when he cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) on his very first attempt at the age of 22. Securing All India Rank (AIR) 1, he became the youngest IAS officer in India at the time, a record that continues to inspire countless aspirants. The UPSC exam, known for its grueling three-stage process—Preliminary, Mains, and Interview—tests a candidate’s knowledge, perseverance, and personality. Ankur’s success in topping this highly competitive exam at such a young age speaks volumes about his preparation strategy and mental fortitude.
For his optional subjects, Ankur chose Physics and Chemistry, leveraging his engineering background, while his keen interest in History enriched his general studies preparation. He has often emphasized the importance of a disciplined routine, advising aspirants to dedicate 8-10 hours daily to focused study. Ankur believes in the power of self-study, supplemented by standard books and regular newspaper reading to stay updated on current affairs. His mantra of “sincere, single-minded devotion” remains a guiding principle for those aiming to crack the UPSC exam.
In interviews, Ankur has shared that while he was confident of performing well, securing AIR 1 came as a pleasant surprise. His success wasn’t just a personal triumph but a source of pride for his family and the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories) cadre, which he joined in 2003.
Career as an IAS Officer: Milestones and Contributions
Ankur Garg began his career as an IAS officer in the 2003 batch of the AGMUT cadre, starting with junior-grade postings from 2003 to 2006. Over the years, he has held several key positions across states and union territories, showcasing his administrative acumen and commitment to public welfare. His postings have included roles in Tripura, Delhi, and Arunachal Pradesh, where he tackled diverse challenges ranging from taxation to sustainable development.
One of his standout achievements came during his tenure in Tirap district, Arunachal Pradesh. Ankur spearheaded a transformative project that convinced local farmers to shift from traditional shifting cultivation to terrace cultivation. This sustainable agricultural practice not only improved livelihoods but also contributed to environmental conservation—a testament to his ability to implement impactful policies at the grassroots level.
In Delhi, Ankur served as Commissioner of Trade and Taxes, overseeing the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework. His analytical skills and policy expertise were instrumental in streamlining tax administration in the National Capital Territory. Later, he was appointed Secretary, Information Technology, with additional charges as Director, UTCS, and Managing Director, GSDL, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile administrator.
As of June 2022, Ankur was transferred to Arunachal Pradesh, where he currently serves as Commissioner (Power and Hydropower). His work continues to focus on infrastructure development and governance, reflecting his training in international development from Harvard.
Personal Life: Family and Interests
Ankur Garg is married to Swati Sharma, and the couple has two sons. Despite his demanding career, he maintains a balance between professional commitments and family life. An active presence on social media, particularly Twitter (with over 12.4K followers as of recent updates), Ankur often shares glimpses of his personal and professional experiences, connecting with the public and aspirants alike.
Beyond his administrative duties, Ankur retains a passion for History and Economics, subjects that continue to influence his approach to governance. His love for learning and intellectual curiosity is evident in his decision to pursue higher education at Harvard after over a decade of service.
Ankur Garg’s Legacy and Inspiration for UPSC Aspirants
Ankur Garg’s journey from an IIT graduate to an IAS topper and Harvard alumnus is a powerful narrative of ambition, hard work, and purpose. His story resonates with young Indians aspiring to join the civil services, proving that age is no barrier to achieving greatness. His advice to UPSC aspirants—focus on self-study, maintain consistency, and stay informed—remains timeless and practical.
Today, as he continues to serve in Arunachal Pradesh, Ankur Garg exemplifies the qualities of an ideal IAS officer: intelligence, empathy, and a relentless drive to make a difference. His contributions to governance, coupled with his academic achievements, ensure that his legacy will inspire generations to come.
Key Takeaways from Ankur Garg’s Life
- Youngest IAS Officer: Topped UPSC CSE 2002 at age 22 with AIR 1.
- Education: B.Tech from IIT Delhi; Master’s from Harvard University.
- Career Highlights: Implemented sustainable farming in Tirap, served as GST Commissioner in Delhi, and now works as Commissioner (Power and Hydropower) in Arunachal Pradesh.
- Personal Mantra: Sincere, single-minded devotion is the key to success.
Conclusion
Ankur Garg, IAS, is more than just a civil servant—he’s a symbol of what dedication and vision can achieve. From his early days in Patiala to his current role in Arunachal Pradesh, his journey is a beacon of motivation for anyone striving for excellence. Whether you’re a UPSC aspirant or simply curious about inspiring Indian personalities, Ankur Garg’s biography offers valuable lessons in perseverance, education, and service to the nation.
For more insights into UPSC success stories or to explore the lives of other IAS officers, stay tuned to our blog!
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