Ila Tripathi, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 2017 batch from the Telangana cadre, is a name synonymous with perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to public service. Rising to prominence with an All India Rank (AIR) of 51 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination, her journey from failure to success has inspired countless aspirants across India.
Early Life and Family Background
Ila Tripathi was born and raised in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and educational institutions. Her father, the late PN Tripathi, was an Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer whose dedication to public service deeply influenced her career aspirations. PN Tripathi’s untimely demise due to a cardiac arrest in 2011 was a significant personal loss for Ila, yet it strengthened her resolve to fulfill his dream of seeing her in a role that serves the public. Her mother, Girija Tripathi, a homemaker and former private teacher, provided unwavering support throughout her journey.
Growing up in a family with a legacy of civil service, Ila was exposed to the values of discipline, responsibility, and community welfare from an early age. Her father often spoke of the District Magistrate (DM) role as one of the most impactful positions in governance, planting the seeds for her ambition to become an IAS officer. This familial influence, combined with her curiosity about public administration, shaped her childhood dreams.
Educational Journey
Ila Tripathi’s academic journey reflects her intellectual curiosity and adaptability. She completed her schooling at City Montessori School, Aliganj, one of Lucknow’s most reputed institutions, where she excelled academically. Her passion for technology led her to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology (IT) from Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida. Graduating in 2013, she honed her analytical and problem-solving skills, which later proved invaluable in her administrative career.
During her third year of engineering, Ila participated in a summer exchange program at the London School of Economics (LSE), where she completed a certificate course in finance and accounting. This international exposure broadened her perspective and introduced her to global economic principles, further enriching her academic foundation. After completing her engineering degree, Ila briefly worked as a financial consultant in a Delhi-based firm with an office in Lucknow, gaining practical experience in the corporate sector. However, she soon realized that her true calling lay in public service, prompting her to prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
UPSC Journey: From Failure to Success
Ila Tripathi’s path to becoming an IAS officer was not without challenges. Her first attempt at the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2015 ended in disappointment, as she scored only 71 marks in the Preliminary stage and failed to qualify for the Mains. At the time, she was balancing her job as a financial consultant and viewed this attempt as a way to familiarize herself with the exam pattern. Despite the setback, Ila remained undeterred.
In January 2016, she resigned from her job to focus exclusively on her UPSC preparation. Choosing to stay in Lucknow instead of moving to Delhi—a common destination for UPSC aspirants—she relied on self-study and selective coaching. Her second attempt in 2017 was a testament to her resilience and strategic preparation. She refined her approach by incorporating mock tests, in-depth analysis of current affairs, and improved answer-writing skills. With Sociology as her optional subject, Ila secured an impressive All India Rank of 51, earning her a place in the prestigious IAS cadre.
Her journey from scoring 71 marks to achieving AIR 51 is chronicled in her book, 71 to 51: My Journey from Failure to IAS & Your Guide to Success, co-authored with her husband, Bhavesh Mishra. The book not only narrates her personal experiences but also serves as a guide for UPSC aspirants, offering practical tips and motivational insights.
Career in the Indian Administrative Service
After clearing the UPSC examination, Ila Tripathi underwent training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. She was allotted the Telangana cadre, the youngest state in India, where she began her career as an IAS officer in 2017. Over the years, Ila has held several key positions, showcasing her administrative acumen and dedication to public welfare.
Key Postings
- Additional Collector, Mancherial: Ila’s early posting as Additional Collector in Mancherial allowed her to gain hands-on experience in local governance and administration.
- Additional Collector (Local Bodies), Mulugu: In this role, she focused on strengthening local governance structures and addressing community needs in Mulugu district.
- District Collector, Mulugu: Appointed as the District Collector and Magistrate of Mulugu in 2023, Ila spearheaded initiatives to improve healthcare, nutrition, and tourism in the region.
- Director of Telangana Tourism: In 2024, Ila took charge as the Director of Telangana Tourism, where she has been working to promote the state’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, leveraging her innovative approach to enhance the tourism sector.
- District Collector, Nalgonda: Currently serving as the District Collector of Nalgonda, Ila continues to address critical issues such as rural development, education, and healthcare.
Notable Contributions
One of Ila’s most notable contributions came during her tenure as Additional Collector in Mulugu. In October 2022, she and her husband, Bhavesh Mishra (then District Collector of Mulugu), chose to deliver their first child at a local government hospital. This decision highlighted their faith in the public healthcare system and inspired confidence among the local population. Following this experience, Ila launched the Poshan Potli program in Mulugu, aimed at improving maternal and child nutrition—a reflection of her personal experiences and commitment to public welfare.
As Director of Telangana Tourism, Ila has been instrumental in promoting sustainable tourism initiatives, focusing on showcasing Telangana’s historical sites, tribal culture, and natural landscapes. Her innovative strategies are expected to boost the state’s tourism sector and create economic opportunities for local communities.
Personal Life and Interests
Ila Tripathi is married to Bhavesh Mishra, an IAS officer of the 2015 batch from the Telangana cadre, currently serving as Deputy Secretary in the Information Technology, Electronics & Communication Department. Their relationship, which blossomed during their UPSC preparation days, is a source of mutual support and inspiration. Bhavesh played a significant role in Ila’s journey, offering guidance and encouragement, especially after her initial failure in 2015.
Beyond her professional life, Ila is a multifaceted individual with diverse interests. She is a voracious reader, with favorite books including Small is Beautiful by E.F. Schumacher and Field Notes of a Civil Servant by Sumita Dawra. She enjoys cooking fusion cuisine, such as "chapati noodles," blending traditional and modern culinary styles. Swimming is another pastime she cherishes, reflecting her balanced approach to work and personal well-being.
Ila is also an accomplished author. Her book, 71 to 51: My Journey from Failure to IAS & Your Guide to Success, has gained popularity among UPSC aspirants for its candid narrative and actionable advice. The book details her struggles, triumphs, and the strategies that led to her success, making it a valuable resource for those preparing for competitive exams.
Legacy and Inspiration
Ila Tripathi’s journey is a powerful reminder that success is often born out of perseverance and learning from failure. Her story resonates with UPSC aspirants and individuals aspiring to make a difference in society. Through her book, social media engagement, and public service initiatives, she continues to inspire a new generation of leaders.
Her decision to deliver her child in a government hospital and her subsequent efforts to improve nutrition and healthcare in Mulugu exemplify her belief in leading by example. As an IAS officer, Ila combines her technical education, international exposure, and personal experiences to address the challenges of governance with empathy and innovation.
Conclusion
Ila Tripathi, IAS, is more than just a civil servant; she is a symbol of resilience, determination, and public service. From her humble beginnings in Lucknow to her current role as District Collector of Nalgonda, her journey reflects the transformative power of hard work and dedication. Whether through her administrative contributions, her book, or her personal choices, Ila continues to leave an indelible mark on society, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams and serve their communities.
Top FAQs About Ila Tripathi, IAS
- Who is Ila Tripathi, IAS?
- Ila Tripathi is an IAS officer of the 2017 batch from the Telangana cadre, known for securing AIR 51 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination and authoring the book 71 to 51: My Journey from Failure to IAS & Your Guide to Success.
- What is Ila Tripathi’s educational background?
- She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida, and completed a certificate course in finance and accounting at the London School of Economics.
- What is Ila Tripathi’s current posting?
- As of March 2025, Ila Tripathi is serving as the District Collector of Nalgonda, Telangana.
- What inspired Ila Tripathi to become an IAS officer?
- Her father, an Indian Forest Service officer, inspired her with his dedication to public service and his belief that the District Magistrate role is one of the most impactful positions in governance.
- What is the book 71 to 51 about?
- 71 to 51: My Journey from Failure to IAS & Your Guide to Success narrates Ila’s journey from scoring 71 marks in her first UPSC attempt to achieving AIR 51 in her second attempt, offering insights and tips for aspirants.
- Who is Ila Tripathi’s husband?
- Ila is married to Bhavesh Mishra, an IAS officer of the 2015 batch, currently serving as Deputy Secretary in the Information Technology, Electronics & Communication Department, Telangana.
- What are some of Ila Tripathi’s notable contributions?
- She launched the Poshan Potli program in Mulugu to improve maternal and child nutrition and has been promoting sustainable tourism as the Director of Telangana Tourism.
- How did Ila Tripathi prepare for the UPSC exam?
- She relied on self-study, mock tests, and in-depth analysis of current affairs, choosing Sociology as her optional subject, and focused on improving her answer-writing skills.
- What are Ila Tripathi’s hobbies?
- She enjoys reading, cooking fusion cuisine, and swimming.
- Why did Ila Tripathi choose to deliver her child in a government hospital?
- She and her husband chose a government hospital to demonstrate confidence in the public healthcare system and inspire trust among the local population in Mulugu.
Comments
Post a Comment