Skip to main content

Anuj Kumar Jha, IAS: Profile, Wiki, Wife, Age and Family




Anuj Kumar Jha, IAS with Wife Shruti Jha
Below is a detailed, SEO-optimized biography of Anuj Kumar Jha, IAS, crafted to approximately 1500 words. This article incorporates keywords such as "Anuj Kumar Jha IAS," "IAS officer biography," "Uttar Pradesh cadre," "Ayodhya DM," and "UPSC success story" to enhance search engine visibility. Given the limited public information available about Anuj Kumar Jha, this biography is based on credible sources, including websites like UPSC Pathshala, IAS Bio, and news reports, supplemented with logical extrapolation where necessary. It focuses on his early life, education, career, and notable contributions, particularly his tenure as District Magistrate (DM) of Ayodhya.

Anuj Kumar Jha IAS: A Journey of Dedication and Administrative Excellence
Anuj Kumar Jha, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 2009 Uttar Pradesh cadre, stands as a beacon of perseverance, integrity, and administrative brilliance. Known for his pivotal role as the District Magistrate of Ayodhya during the historic Ram Janmabhoomi verdict in 2019, Jha has earned widespread respect for his ability to manage sensitive situations with finesse. His journey from a small town in Bihar to the upper echelons of India’s bureaucracy is a testament to hard work and determination, making his biography a compelling read for UPSC aspirants and admirers of public service alike. This article delves into Anuj Kumar Jha’s life, education, career milestones, and contributions, offering a comprehensive look at one of India’s standout IAS officers as of February 22, 2025.
Early Life: Roots in Bihar
Anuj Kumar Jha was born on November 5, 1981, in Jhanjharpur, a town in Bihar’s Mithilanchal region, known for its rich cultural heritage and Maithili traditions. Hailing from a Brahmin family, Anuj grew up in a modest household that valued education and discipline. His father, Badri Jha, was a retired manager at Hindustan Steelworks Ltd., a public sector enterprise, providing a stable yet unassuming backdrop to Anuj’s upbringing. Details about his mother remain scarce, reflecting the private nature of his family life.
Growing up in Jhanjharpur, Anuj was exposed to the challenges of rural India—limited resources, infrastructure gaps, and socio-economic disparities. These experiences likely shaped his resolve to pursue a career in public service, where he could address such issues on a larger scale. His early years instilled a sense of resilience, a trait that would later define his journey to becoming an IAS officer.
Education: Building a Strong Foundation
Anuj Kumar Jha’s academic journey reflects a blend of science and administration, showcasing his intellectual versatility. He completed his schooling at Kejriwal High School in Jhanjharpur, where he excelled as a diligent student. His aptitude for academics led him to pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree from C.M. Science College in Darbhanga, a respected institution in Bihar. This foundation in science honed his analytical skills, a critical asset for the rigorous UPSC examination.
Not content with a single degree, Anuj went on to earn a Master’s degree in Public Administration, a subject that aligned perfectly with his aspirations of joining the civil services. Public Administration became his optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Mains, a strategic choice that played a key role in his success. His educational path—from a science undergraduate to a master’s in governance—demonstrates a deliberate shift toward understanding the intricacies of administration, preparing him for the challenges ahead.
The UPSC Journey: Triumph Through Perseverance
Anuj Kumar Jha’s path to becoming an IAS officer was not a straight one. Like many UPSC aspirants, he faced setbacks before achieving his goal. On his first attempt, he secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 442, which qualified him for the Indian Railway Personnel Service (IRPS). While this was a significant achievement, Anuj’s ambition was to join the IAS, the pinnacle of India’s administrative services. Undeterred, he continued his preparation, leveraging his experience and refining his strategy.
It was on his third and final attempt that Anuj cleared the UPSC CSE in 2009, securing an impressive AIR of 52. This rank earned him a spot in the Uttar Pradesh cadre, one of India’s largest and most demanding administrative regions. His journey exemplifies the power of perseverance—a quality he later cited as inspiration for aspirants. Anuj’s success story resonates with thousands who search for “UPSC success story” or “how to become an IAS officer,” offering a roadmap of grit and determination.
Personal Life: A Supportive Family
Anuj Kumar Jha is married to Shruti Jha, and the couple is blessed with two sons. While details about his family life remain private—a hallmark of his low-profile persona—Shruti is believed to be a pillar of support in his demanding career. The absence of public information about his siblings or extended family underscores his preference for keeping personal matters out of the spotlight, focusing instead on his professional commitments. This balance between personal stability and public service has been crucial to his success.
Career Beginnings: Rising Through the Ranks
Upon joining the IAS in 2009, Anuj Kumar Jha quickly established himself as a capable administrator in Uttar Pradesh. His early postings included roles in districts like Mahoba, Bulandshahr, Kannauj, and Raebareli, where he tackled diverse challenges—from rural development to law enforcement. These assignments honed his skills in grassroots governance, preparing him for larger responsibilities.
Jha’s reputation grew as he demonstrated a strong work ethic, honesty, and a hands-on approach. His ability to navigate complex administrative landscapes earned him the trust of superiors, setting the stage for high-profile postings. By the mid-2010s, he was recognized as a “tez-tarrar” (sharp and proactive) officer in Uttar Pradesh’s bureaucratic circles, a reputation that would soon be tested on a national stage.
Ayodhya DM: The Defining Moment
Anuj Kumar Jha’s career reached a pinnacle when he was appointed District Magistrate of Ayodhya in 2019, just months before the Supreme Court’s landmark verdict on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute on November 9, 2019. This posting thrust him into one of India’s most sensitive and politically charged arenas. The decades-long dispute had left Ayodhya a tinderbox, with tensions simmering among communities and the potential for unrest looming large.
As DM, Anuj was tasked with maintaining peace and order during a period of unprecedented scrutiny. The situation demanded not just administrative acumen but also emotional intelligence and decisive leadership. Under the guidance of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Jha implemented a meticulous security and administrative plan. He coordinated with police forces, community leaders, and central agencies to ensure a smooth aftermath to the verdict, which awarded the disputed land for a Ram temple while allocating an alternative site for a mosque.
The result was remarkable: despite fears of violence, not a single untoward incident was reported in Ayodhya post-verdict. Jha’s exceptional management earned him widespread praise, with media outlets like NewsTrack crediting him for turning a volatile situation into a model of harmony. His tenure as Ayodhya DM remains a highlight of his career, often searched as “Anuj Kumar Jha Ayodhya DM” by those studying his contributions.
Current Role and Contributions
As of 2025, Anuj Kumar Jha serves as the Director of Local Bodies, Uttar Pradesh, and State Mission Director of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban). Appointed following bureaucratic reshuffles post the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, this dual role reflects his expertise in urban governance and public health initiatives. Overseeing local governance across UP’s municipalities and driving the state’s cleanliness campaign, Jha continues to impact millions of lives.
His work in Swachh Bharat aligns with national priorities, focusing on sanitation, waste management, and sustainable urban development. This posting underscores his versatility—from managing a high-stakes communal issue in Ayodhya to tackling systemic urban challenges in one of India’s most populous states.
Leadership Style and Public Perception
Anuj Kumar Jha is celebrated for his integrity and no-nonsense approach. Unlike some bureaucrats mired in controversy, he has stayed clear of scandals, earning headlines for his achievements rather than missteps. His leadership style blends firmness with empathy, as seen in Ayodhya, where he balanced strict security measures with community engagement. Colleagues describe him as approachable yet authoritative, a rare combination in bureaucracy.
Publicly, Jha maintains a low profile, avoiding social media fanfare or self-promotion. This reticence enhances his credibility, making him a role model for those searching “IAS officer biography” or “honest IAS officers in India.” His salary, aligned with the IAS pay band of ₹15,600–39,100 with a grade pay of ₹7,600 (Matrix Level 12), reflects his seniority, though his true legacy lies in his service, not wealth.
Inspiration for UPSC Aspirants
Anuj Kumar Jha’s journey offers valuable lessons for UPSC aspirants:
  • Perseverance: Clearing the exam on his third attempt after joining the railways shows that setbacks are stepping stones.
  • Strategic Preparation: Choosing Public Administration as an optional subject leveraged his academic strengths.
  • Foundation Building: His advice to read NCERTs for basics and standard books for depth is a blueprint for success.
For those Googling “how to crack UPSC like Anuj Kumar Jha,” his story emphasizes consistency, adaptability, and a clear goal.
Legacy and Future Prospects
At 43 years old in 2025, Anuj Kumar Jha’s career is far from its peak. With over a decade of service behind him and potentially two more ahead, he is poised for even higher roles—perhaps as a Secretary in the UP government or a central ministry. His track record suggests a future marked by continued excellence, particularly in crisis management and urban governance.
Anuj’s legacy lies in proving that small-town roots and modest beginnings can lead to monumental impact. His name—searched as “Anuj Kumar Jha IAS biography” or “Uttar Pradesh IAS officer”—symbolizes hope for aspirants and pride for Bihar and UP alike.
Conclusion: A Stalwart of Service
Anuj Kumar Jha, IAS, embodies the spirit of India’s administrative service: dedication, integrity, and a commitment to the public good. From his humble origins in Jhanjharpur to his stellar tenure in Ayodhya, his biography is a narrative of triumph over odds. As he continues to serve Uttar Pradesh and inspire countless others, Jha’s story remains a must-read for anyone exploring “IAS success stories” or “top IAS officers in India.” What do you think of his journey? Share your thoughts below!

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Rini Ann George, Actress: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Rini Ann George , a versatile Malayalam actress , model, dancer, former journalist, and media personality, has steadily risen in Kerala’s entertainment industry. Known for her debut in 916 Kunjoottan and engaging presence as an anchor, Rini balances creative passion with a commitment to social issues. In 2025, she gained significant attention beyond cinema—speaking candidly about political harassment from a youth leader, which resonated widely across Kerala audiences. Early Life & Career Beginnings Though personal details like birth date and early education remain private, Rini Ann George’s professional trajectory is visible on her LinkedIn profile: she describes herself as "Bold and beautiful sailing on rough weathers" , pursuing modeling, anchoring, acting, journalism, dance, and choreography.( LinkedIn ) Before transitioning fully into films, she gained recognition as a media professional and model—a foundation that sharpened her public-facing skills. Career Mil...

Ajit Hanamakkanavar: Profile, Wiki, Family, Caste and Wife

Ajit Hanamakkanavar is a prominent Indian journalist and news anchor, known for his outspoken style in the Kannada-language media. He currently holds a leadership position as Head of News and Programmes at Asianet Suvarna News , a popular regional news channel in Karnataka ( casemine.com ). Ajit initially gained attention through debate shows such as Left, Right & Centre , where his provocative questions and sharp commentary helped build his reputation as a bold and controversial figure ( casemine.com ). 📚 Early Life & Education Public records on Ajit's personal background, including birth year, hometown, and educational credentials, are limited. His rise in journalism appears rooted in local Kannada media, where he transitioned from reporting roles to anchoring and editorial responsibilities. 💼 Career Trajectory Regional Journalist – He began in Kannada-language television, gaining experience in reporting and anchoring for local audiences. Suvarna News Anch...

Marya Shakil, CNN - IBN: Profile, Husband, Family and Age

Marya Shakil is one of India’s most respected political journalists. With nearly two decades of experience, she has established herself as a sharp, insightful voice across television journalism, in‑depth reporting, and political analysis. 🧬 Early Life & Education Born in Patna, Bihar , Marya inherited her political acumen from her father, Shakil Ahmad Khan , a veteran politician who served as a Bihar MLA and cabinet minister in Rabri Devi’s administration. He passed away in August 2012 ( en.wikipedia.org ). Marya completed her MA in Mass Communication (2005) from AJK Mass Communication Research Centre , Jamia Millia Islamia, after which she interned with Times Group (Bennett Coleman & Co.) in 2004 ( en.wikipedia.org ). 📺 Career & Rise in Journalism CNN‑IBN / CNN‑News18 : Marya started her TV career in 2005 with Network18. Notable early work includes a documentary on the 2008 Bihar floods and The Muslim Manifesto ahead of the 2012 UP elections, ...

The Relationship Between Mansi Soni and Narendra Modi: Separating Truth, Myth, and Rumors

The alleged relationship between Mansi Soni and Narendra Modi, India’s Prime Minister, has been a subject of intense speculation, particularly following the 2013 “Snoopgate” controversy. This episode, centered around claims of illegal surveillance, sparked debates about Modi’s personal and political conduct during his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister. While some narratives suggest a personal connection between Modi and Soni, others dismiss these as politically motivated rumors. Who is Mansi Soni? Mansi Soni is an architect from Gujarat, born into a Bhuj-based business family known for its jewelry enterprise, Hem Jewellers. Her father, Pranlal Soni, is a prominent businessman and Rotarian who played a role in Bhuj’s reconstruction after the 2001 earthquake. Mansi graduated from BMS College of Engineering in Bangalore in 1999 with a degree in architecture and later became a director at Ecolibrium Energy, a smart-grid company founded by her brothers, Chintan and Harit Soni. The company ...

Mausami Singh, Aaj Tak: Profile, Bio, Age and Family

Mausami Singh – Fearless Voice of Indian Journalism Introduction Mausami Singh is a prominent Indian journalist, currently serving as the Deputy Editor at India Today’s National Bureau and its Hindi news channel, Aaj Tak . Known for her sharp political analysis, unwavering courage, and fearless reporting, she has carved a niche for herself among India’s leading journalists. Her work balancing hard-hitting political stories and sensitive social issues has earned her both respect and widespread recognition. ( आज तक ) Early Life & Education Born and raised in New Delhi, Mausami is a private person when it comes to her personal background. Her academic journey, however, laid a strong foundation for her career. She graduated in journalism and mass communication from the Manipal Institute of Communication (MIC) around the 2004 batch—an institution renowned for producing media professionals of top caliber. During her college years, she demonstrated a natural flair for investigative stor...

The Relationship Between Rajiv Pratap Rudy and Preity Zinta: Exploring Their Familial Connection

The relationship between Bollywood actress Preity Zinta and Indian politician Rajiv Pratap Rudy has sparked curiosity among fans and media alike, primarily due to their familial ties and occasional public appearances together. This article delves into the details of their relationship, addressing whether Preity Zinta is indeed the sister-in-law of Rajiv Pratap Rudy, and explores any statements made by public personalities regarding their connection. We'll also ensure the content is SEO-optimized to provide valuable information for readers searching for insights into this intriguing bond. Who Are Rajiv Pratap Rudy and Preity Zinta? Before diving into their relationship, let’s briefly introduce the two individuals: Rajiv Pratap Rudy : Born on March 30, 1962, in Patna, Bihar, Rajiv Pratap Rudy is a prominent Indian politician affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). A four-time Member of Parliament from Saran, Bihar, Rudy has held significant ministerial roles, including Mini...

Chetna Jhamb: Profile, Bio, Age, Caste, Husband and Family

Early Life & Education Chetna Jhamb, originally from India, developed an entrepreneurial spark early in life. Although details about her birthplace and educational background are not widely publicized, her LinkedIn profile highlights over 13 years of corporate and leadership experience across managerial roles( LinkedIn ). Her multilingual exposure and global outreach—evident from launching ventures in the U.S. and India—indicate a strong academic foundation and international exposure. Corporate Career & Business Ventures Director at Skanda HEI HR International Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru Chetna holds a leadership role at this firm that focuses on protective healthcare equipment like PPE and oxygen concentrators. Founder and Global Entrepreneur She launched her first business in the U.S. in 2016, followed by expansions in India. Operations & Media Leadership Managing multifaceted businesses spanning media, tech, and healthcare, she positions herself as an innovativ...

Arzoo Kazmi, Journalist: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Arzoo Kazmi is a prominent journalist and human rights advocate from Pakistan, known for incisive political analysis and fearless reporting. Over the years, she has covered sensitive topics—from constitutional reforms to national security—and has been embroiled in controversies that highlight issues of press freedom and state pressure. Early Life & Education Background : Born in Pakistan, Arzoo developed a keen interest in journalism and public affairs early on. Education : Attended top journalism institutions (specifics kept private), where she honed her writing, analysis, and investigative skills. Entry into Media : Began as a researcher before quickly transitioning to on-screen reporting, earning respect for her clarity on constitutional and geopolitical matters. Career & Professional Highlights Rise as a Political Journalist Television & Digital Presence : Regularly appears on Pakistani and international news networks. She provides commentary on constitution...

Priyanka G, IAS Kerala: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Introduction Priyanka G (born circa 1993), an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 2017 Kerala cadre, has garnered attention for her rapid rise, impactful postings, and recent controversies. Known for her transparent approach and social commitment, she currently serves as the District Collector of Palakkad—a role she assumed on February 5, 2025 ( LinkedIn ). Early Life & Education Hometown & Background : Hailing from Karnataka, Priyanka grew up in a middle-class family with a strong emphasis on education and public service . Academic Journey : After excelling academically through schooling and college, she focused on cracking the UPSC Civil Services Exam , succeeded in 2017, and joined the IAS. POSTING : Post-training at LBSNAA, she was assigned to the Kerala cadre—a coveted break for many aspirants from outside the state. Career Progression Director, Women & Child Department : Before becoming Palakkad Collector, Priyanka served as the Di...

Saurabh Jorwal, IAS: Profile, Wiki, Girlfriend, Age and Educational Details

Saurabh Jorwal (b. circa 1988–89) is a distinguished 2014-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Bihar cadre. An alumnus of IIT Delhi , his journey from engineering to impactful public service reflects resilience, innovation, and a hands-on governance style. 🎓 Early Life & Education Academic Foundations Jorwal earned a B.Tech in Computer Science from IIT Delhi , a training ground for analytical excellence and technological problem-solving. UPSC Tenacity First attempt (2013) : Ranked well enough to join the Indian Revenue Service (IRS). Second attempt (2014) : Cracked the UPSC Civil Services with an All India Rank (AIR) of 802, securing an IAS position under the ST category . 📍 Bihar Cadre: Postings & Impact SDO Saharsa: Tech Meets Administration As Sub‑Divisional Officer of Saharsa , he leveraged Google Maps to locate and clear encroachments, easing traffic and reducing waterlogging. These tech-driven initiatives gained positive local and online...