Dheenah Dastageer is an inspiring Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer who secured an impressive All India Rank (AIR) 63 in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2020. Her journey from being an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) in Saudi Arabia to becoming a top-ranking IAS officer in India is a testament to her determination, hard work, and unwavering commitment to serving her nation. Today, Dheenah Dastageer IAS serves as a role model for UPSC aspirants and individuals aspiring to contribute to society through public service.
Early Life and Background
Dheenah Dastageer was born and raised in a family with a strong academic foundation. While specific details about her birth date and family are not widely publicized, it is known that she spent 17 years of her life in Saudi Arabia. Her father, an academician, played a significant role in shaping her worldview and inspiring her to pursue a career in civil services. Growing up in an expatriate Indian community, Dheenah was exposed to a "mini-India" environment at the International Indian School in Dammam, where she completed her schooling. This diverse setting, with students from various parts of India speaking different languages, instilled in her a deep sense of national pride and a desire to serve her homeland.
Her childhood was marked by discussions about current affairs, news, and societal developments at home, thanks to her father’s influence. These conversations laid the foundation for her interest in public administration and governance, which later became the driving force behind her decision to pursue the IAS.
Educational Journey
Dheenah Dastageer’s educational journey is a blend of international and Indian academic experiences. After completing her schooling at the International Indian School in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, she returned to India to pursue higher education. She enrolled at LBS Institute of Technology for Women in Trivandrum, Kerala, where she graduated with a degree in engineering. Her choice to return to India for her undergraduate studies was driven by both a desire to reconnect with her roots and a long-term goal of contributing to the country’s development.
Her academic background in engineering provided her with a strong analytical foundation, which later proved invaluable during her UPSC preparation. Additionally, her exposure to diverse cultures and environments enriched her perspective, a quality that is essential for an IAS officer tasked with addressing complex societal challenges.
The Decision to Pursue Civil Services
Dheenah Dastageer’s aspiration to become a civil servant was rooted in her childhood. The vibrant, multicultural environment of her school in Saudi Arabia, combined with her father’s influence, inspired her to dream of serving India. Unlike many NRIs who opt for careers abroad, Dheenah chose to return to her motherland, motivated by an emotional connection to India and a desire to work for its people.
In an exclusive interview with Indian Masterminds, Dheenah explained, “There were two reasons for me to return to India—one of them was to pursue graduation from an Indian university, and the other reason was emotional. I wanted to work for the common people, I wanted to serve our nation, and that is why I chose IAS as a career option.” Her decision to prioritize the Indian Administrative Service over other options, such as the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), reflects her deep commitment to grassroots-level service and nation-building.
UPSC Preparation and Strategy
The UPSC Civil Services Examination is widely regarded as one of the toughest competitive exams in the world, requiring a combination of knowledge, strategy, and perseverance. Dheenah Dastageer’s success in securing AIR 63 in UPSC CSE 2020 is a result of her meticulous preparation and disciplined approach.
Choosing Geography as an Optional Subject
Dheenah opted for Geography as her optional subject, a decision influenced by her personal interest in nature and atmospheric phenomena. She emphasized the importance of selecting an optional subject aligned with one’s core interests, as it carries significant weight in the final ranking. Her comprehensive strategy for Geography included in-depth study, regular revision, and the creation of concise notes tailored for the Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test stages of the exam.
Preparation Approach
Dheenah’s preparation was characterized by systematic planning and consistency. She followed a structured schedule, setting daily and weekly targets to cover the vast UPSC syllabus. She emphasized the importance of revision, stating, “Revision is very important to clear UPSC. It is necessary to limit the sources and constantly revise whatever notes and materials one has, because it eventually helps in recreating in the exam.” Her experience from a previous unsuccessful attempt taught her the value of thorough revision, which she rectified in her successful attempt.
Unlike many aspirants who disconnect from social media during preparation, Dheenah utilized platforms like Twitter productively. She listed browsing Twitter as a hobby in her Detailed Application Form (DAF) and used it to stay updated on news, perspectives, and current affairs. “I believe social media can be used both in productive and unproductive manners. I used it to enhance my preparation,” she said.
Key to Success
Dheenah’s success can be attributed to her ability to introspect and improve after setbacks. She acknowledged that her previous attempt failed due to inadequate revision, and she worked diligently to address this weakness. Her preparation was supported by coaching from institutions like Shankar IAS Academy and iLearn IAS, where she honed her skills and gained valuable guidance.
In her interview round, the panel asked her personal questions about her education, hobbies, and achievements. Her confident and authentic responses, backed by thorough preparation, helped her secure a high score of 195 out of 275 in the Personality Test, contributing to her overall score of 994 out of 2025.
Career as an IAS Officer
After clearing the UPSC CSE 2020, Dheenah Dastageer joined the Indian Administrative Service as part of the Odisha cadre. Following her initial training, she was appointed as Sub-Collector of Berhampur, Ganjam, Odisha, on February 9, 2024. This role marks the beginning of her journey as a civil servant, where she is responsible for administrative duties, public welfare initiatives, and the implementation of government schemes at the grassroots level.
Her posting in Odisha provides her with an opportunity to apply her skills and knowledge to address regional challenges, such as rural development, disaster management, and socio-economic upliftment. As a young IAS officer, Dheenah brings fresh perspectives and a proactive approach to her work, aligning with her childhood dream of serving the common people.
Personal Life and Interests
Dheenah Dastageer is a nature enthusiast with a keen interest in atmospheric phenomena, which influenced her choice of Geography as an optional subject. While she maintains a low profile regarding her personal life, her interviews reveal her as a disciplined, focused, and empathetic individual. She credits her family, particularly her father, for being a constant source of inspiration and support throughout her journey.
Lessons for UPSC Aspirants
Dheenah Dastageer’s journey offers valuable lessons for UPSC aspirants:
- Consistency and Revision: Systematic planning and regular revision are key to mastering the UPSC syllabus.
- Leveraging Strengths: Choosing an optional subject based on personal interest can enhance performance.
- Productive Use of Resources: Social media and other tools can be used constructively to stay informed and prepared.
- Resilience: Learning from failures and improving weaknesses is crucial for success.
- Authenticity: Being genuine and confident during the interview can leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion
Dheenah Dastageer IAS is a shining example of how dedication, strategic planning, and a passion for public service can lead to extraordinary achievements. From her early years in Saudi Arabia to her current role as Sub-Collector in Odisha, her journey reflects her unwavering commitment to her country and its people. As she continues to serve in the Indian Administrative Service, Dheenah remains an inspiration for countless individuals aspiring to make a difference through civil services.
Top FAQs About Dheenah Dastageer IAS
- Who is Dheenah Dastageer IAS?
Dheenah Dastageer is an IAS officer who secured AIR 63 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2020. She is currently posted as Sub-Collector of Berhampur, Ganjam, Odisha. - What is Dheenah Dastageer’s educational background?
She completed her schooling at the International Indian School in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, and graduated with an engineering degree from LBS Institute of Technology for Women in Trivandrum, Kerala. - What was Dheenah Dastageer’s optional subject in UPSC?
Dheenah chose Geography as her optional subject, influenced by her interest in nature and atmospheric phenomena. - How did Dheenah Dastageer prepare for the UPSC exam?
She followed a disciplined approach with daily and weekly targets, emphasized revision, and used social media like Twitter productively to stay updated on current affairs. - Why did Dheenah Dastageer choose IAS over IFS?
Despite living abroad for 17 years, she chose IAS to serve at the grassroots level in India, driven by her love for the country and desire to work for its people. - What is Dheenah Dastageer’s current posting?
As of February 9, 2024, she is posted as Sub-Collector of Berhampur, Ganjam, Odisha. - What advice does Dheenah Dastageer give to UPSC aspirants?
She advises aspirants to revise regularly, choose an optional subject based on interest, use resources productively, and remain consistent in their preparation.
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