Anu Beniwal, a name synonymous with perseverance and dedication, is a 2022-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer currently serving in the Madhya Pradesh cadre. With an All India Rank (AIR) of 217 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2021, Anu’s journey from a humble background in Pitampura, Delhi, to becoming a respected IPS officer is nothing short of inspiring. Known for her academic brilliance, disciplined approach, and commitment to public service, Anu Beniwal has emerged as a role model for UPSC aspirants and young women aspiring to break barriers in male-dominated fields. This detailed biography explores her early life, educational background, UPSC journey, personal life, controversies, and her current role as a trainee IPS officer.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on April 26, 1992, in Pitampura, a village in Delhi, Anu Beniwal hails from a modest Jat family. Her father, Sanjay Beniwal, faced significant health challenges throughout his life, including heart issues and hearing difficulties, which limited his ability to work. Initially involved in a small button factory business managed by his brother (Anu’s uncle), Sanjay prioritized his daughter’s education despite his struggles. Anu’s mother, too, played a pivotal role in her upbringing, supporting her ambitions even though neither parent completed their schooling. This lack of formal education in her family only fueled Anu’s determination to rise above her circumstances and serve the nation.
Growing up in a close-knit community, Anu was surrounded by the values of hard work and resilience. The Jat community in Pitampura, where the surname "Beniwal" is common, fostered a sense of pride and identity in her. One notable figure from her village, IPS officer Sanjay Baniwal (a 1989-batch officer who later became Director General of Tihar Jail), inspired her early dreams of joining the civil services. Although not biologically related, Anu affectionately refers to him as "Tauji" (uncle), a testament to the village camaraderie that shaped her aspirations.
Educational Journey: From Physics to Public Service
Anu Beniwal’s academic journey is a testament to her intellectual prowess. She excelled in her studies from a young age, displaying a particular aptitude for science. After completing her schooling, she pursued a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Physics Honours from Hindu College, Delhi University—one of the most prestigious institutions in India. Her passion for understanding the intricacies of the physical world led her to further her education with a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Physics from the same college.
Post-graduation, Anu ventured into the field of nanoscience, engaging in research for several years. This phase of her life honed her analytical skills and deepened her curiosity, qualities that would later prove invaluable in her UPSC preparation. However, despite her accomplishments in academia and research, Anu felt a calling toward public service—a dream she had nurtured since childhood. The desire to make a tangible difference in society prompted her to shift gears and prepare for one of India’s toughest examinations: the UPSC Civil Services Exam.
UPSC Journey: Overcoming Setbacks with Determination
Anu Beniwal’s path to becoming an IPS officer was far from smooth. Her UPSC journey, marked by multiple attempts and setbacks, exemplifies her resilience and unwavering focus. She began her preparation in January 2018, but her first attempt that same year ended in failure at the Preliminary stage. Devastated yet undeterred, Anu learned from her mistakes and vowed not to repeat them. She strongly advises aspirants against appearing for the exam without adequate preparation, a lesson she derived from her initial misstep.
In 2019, Anu cleared the Prelims but faltered at the Mains stage, largely due to underwhelming performance in her optional subject, Geography, where she scored 211 marks. Undaunted, she attempted the exam again in 2020, securing an AIR of 638. This rank earned her a position in the Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police Service (DANIPS), but Anu’s sights were set higher—she wanted to join the IPS. Her perseverance paid off in her fourth attempt in 2021, when she achieved AIR 217, finally securing her place in the Indian Police Service.
Anu’s UPSC strategy was methodical and disciplined. She emphasized sticking to the syllabus, creating concise personal notes, and relying on qualitative study material. For her General Studies (GS) papers and optional subject (Geography), she blended standard books with online resources. Her essay scores improved progressively—from 119 in her first attempt to 135 in 2021—thanks to her focus on incorporating real-life examples, ethical dimensions, and emotional appeal. Time management during the exam and rigorous practice of answer writing were also key pillars of her success.
Personal Life: Love and Partnership in Service
Anu Beniwal’s personal life reflects the same strength and purpose that define her professional journey. In October 2023, she got engaged to Dr. Ayush Jakhar, a fellow 2022-batch IPS officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre. Ayush, who secured AIR 174 in the UPSC CSE 2021, brings his own remarkable story to their partnership. A state topper in the Pre-Medical Test (PMT) and an MBBS graduate from AIIMS Jodhpur, Ayush transitioned from medicine to civil services, inspired by his father, retired IPS officer Dilip Jakhar.
The couple’s engagement photos, shared by Anu on Instagram, garnered widespread admiration, showcasing their shared commitment to fitness, service, and each other. Often dubbed "Beauty with Brains" by her followers, Anu’s social media presence highlights her active lifestyle, including her passion for fitness, which complements her demanding role as an IPS officer. Together, Anu and Ayush represent a modern power couple dedicated to upholding justice and serving the nation.
Career as an IPS Officer: Madhya Pradesh Cadre
As a 2022-batch IPS officer, Anu Beniwal is currently undergoing training in the Madhya Pradesh cadre. Posted as a trainee in Gwalior district, she has already made headlines for her fearless stance against the sand mining mafia while serving as the Station House Officer (SHO) of Bijauli Police Station. Her actions reflect her commitment to tackling illegal activities and upholding the rule of law, earning her both praise and challenges.
Anu’s training phase has been rigorous, preparing her for the multifaceted responsibilities of an IPS officer. From maintaining law and order to addressing public grievances, she is steadily building a reputation as a determined and approachable leader. Upon completing her training, she is expected to take on a formal posting in Gwalior, where she aims to continue her fight against crime and corruption.
Controversies and Clarifications
In July 2024, Anu Beniwal found herself at the center of a social media storm sparked by allegations of misusing the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) quota in the UPSC exam. Critics pointed to a viral Instagram post where Anu was seen pointing to Sanjay Baniwal’s name on a plaque, wrongly assuming he was her father and an IPS officer. The controversy intensified as trolls compared her to IAS officer Puja Khedkar, who faced similar accusations.
Anu swiftly debunked these claims, clarifying that Sanjay Baniwal is not her biological father but a respected figure from her village whom she admires. She emphasized that her real father, Sanjay Beniwal, never held a government position and struggled with health issues, making her family eligible for the EWS quota. Multiple fact-checks by reputed outlets like India Today and Newschecker corroborated her statements, putting the rumors to rest. Despite the ordeal, Anu remains unfazed, focusing on her duties and considering legal action against those who spread misinformation.
Anu Beniwal: A Source of Inspiration
Anu Beniwal’s biography is a powerful narrative of grit, intellect, and service. From her academic achievements in Physics to her relentless pursuit of the IPS dream, she embodies the qualities of a true leader. Her story resonates with UPSC aspirants, particularly women, who seek to overcome societal and personal challenges to achieve their goals. Anu’s active social media presence—where she shares insights into her fitness regime, professional life, and personal milestones—further amplifies her influence.
As of February 24, 2025, Anu continues her training in Hyderabad, preparing for the challenges ahead in her policing career. Her journey underscores the importance of perseverance, strategic preparation, and staying true to one’s roots. For those searching for "Anu Beniwal IPS biography," "UPSC success story," or "IPS officer Madhya Pradesh," her life offers valuable lessons and inspiration.
Key Takeaways from Anu Beniwal’s Journey
- Education: B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Physics from Hindu College, Delhi University.
- UPSC Rank: AIR 217 in CSE 2021 (4th attempt).
- Cadre: Madhya Pradesh (2022 batch).
- Optional Subject: Geography.
- Personal Life: Engaged to IPS officer Ayush Jakhar.
- Current Role: Trainee IPS officer in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.
Anu Beniwal’s remarkable journey from Pitampura to the Indian Police Service is a beacon of hope, proving that with determination and hard work, no dream is too big. As she continues to serve and inspire, her legacy as an IPS officer is only just beginning.
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