Keerthi Vasan, IAS, is a name synonymous with determination, academic excellence, and public service. As an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 2018 batch of the Odisha cadre, Keerthi has made a significant mark in his relatively short yet impactful career. Achieving an All India Rank (AIR) of 29 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2017 on his first attempt, Keerthi Vasan’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, strategic preparation, and a commitment to serving society.
Early Life and Background
Keerthi Vasan was born on August 15, 1994, in Tamil Nadu, India, into a supportive family that valued education and independence. While specific details about his early childhood and family background are not widely publicized, it is known that his parents played a pivotal role in encouraging his aspirations. In an interview with The Hindu, Keerthi mentioned that his parents gave him the freedom to choose his career path, whether it was civil services, a corporate job, or higher studies. This supportive environment allowed him to explore his interests and eventually pursue a career in the Indian bureaucracy.
Keerthi’s elder sister is a practicing lawyer at the Madras High Court, indicating a family inclination toward professions that uphold justice and public service. His Tamil roots also influenced his academic choices, as he later opted for Tamil as an optional subject during his UPSC preparation, showcasing his connection to his cultural heritage.
Educational Journey
Keerthi Vasan’s academic journey is marked by excellence and a strong foundation in technical education. He pursued a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) in Civil Engineering from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Tiruchirappalli, one of India’s premier engineering institutions. Graduating in 2016, Keerthi’s time at NIT Trichy was instrumental in shaping his career aspirations and providing him with a robust educational background.
During his college years, Keerthi was actively involved in extracurricular activities, which honed his leadership and organizational skills. He served as the Chairperson of Pragyan, NIT Trichy’s annual technical festival, a role that required coordination with various stakeholders, including top-level administration officials. Additionally, he played a key role during the college’s Golden Jubilee Celebrations in 2015, which were graced by then-President of India, Pranab Mukherjee. These experiences brought him into contact with IAS and IPS officers, sparking his interest in civil services as a career that blends personal growth, professional challenges, and societal impact.
The UPSC Journey: Achieving AIR 29 in 2017
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination is one of the toughest competitive exams in India, requiring rigorous preparation and a deep understanding of diverse subjects. Keerthi Vasan’s success in securing AIR 29 in the 2017 examination on his first attempt is a remarkable feat that highlights his dedication and strategic approach.
Preparation Strategy
After graduating from NIT Trichy in 2016, Keerthi moved to New Delhi to focus on his UPSC preparation. He enrolled in a nine-month coaching program to gain structured guidance, but he emphasized the importance of self-study and selective resource use. In an interview with The Hindu, Keerthi advised aspirants to "keep the study material restricted" and focus on revision rather than overwhelming themselves with excessive resources. He chose Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) as his optional subject, leveraging his analytical skills and interest in governance.
Keerthi’s preparation was a blend of discipline and adaptability. He stressed the importance of understanding the exam’s requirements and tailoring one’s study plan accordingly. While coaching provided direction, he attributed his success to consistent self-effort and the ability to filter advice based on personal strengths. His first-attempt success also gave him an edge during the personality test (interview), as UPSC panels often appreciate the enthusiasm and freshness of first-time candidates.
Key Milestones
- Preliminary Examination: Cleared on his first attempt, demonstrating a strong grasp of general studies and aptitude.
- Mains Examination: Excelled in essay writing, general studies, and his optional subject, PSIR.
- Personality Test: Secured high marks, reflecting his confidence, clarity of thought, and commitment to public service.
Keerthi’s rank of 29 made him the topper from Tamil Nadu in the 2017 examination, a proud moment for his family and the state. He received training for the personality test from Aram IAS Academy in Chennai, which further refined his skills.
IAS Career: Service in the Odisha Cadre
Upon clearing the UPSC examination, Keerthi Vasan was allocated to the Odisha cadre as part of the 2018 IAS batch. His career as an IAS officer has been marked by significant responsibilities and contributions, particularly in the Ganjam district of Odisha.
Early Assignments
After completing his initial training, Keerthi was appointed as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in Ganjam district in August 2020, tasked with managing the COVID-19 pandemic. This role came at a critical time when India was grappling with the first wave of the virus, and Ganjam was one of the worst-affected districts in Odisha. As OSD, Keerthi played a pivotal role in coordinating healthcare services, ensuring supply chains for essential goods, and implementing containment measures. His efforts contributed to stabilizing the situation in the district during a challenging period.
Current Role
As of the latest updates, Keerthi Vasan serves as the Chief Development Officer (CDO)-cum-Executive Officer of the Zilla Parishad in Ganjam district. In this capacity, he oversees development projects, rural administration, and the implementation of government schemes aimed at improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare in the region. His technical background in civil engineering likely aids him in managing infrastructure-related initiatives effectively.
Achievements and Impact
Keerthi Vasan’s achievements extend beyond his UPSC rank. His work as an IAS officer reflects his commitment to public service and his ability to handle complex administrative challenges. Some notable aspects of his career include:
- COVID-19 Management: His role as OSD during the pandemic showcased his crisis management skills and ability to work under pressure.
- Rural Development: As CDO, he has been instrumental in driving development initiatives in Ganjam, a district with a significant rural population.
- Inspiration to Aspirants: Keerthi’s first-attempt success and practical advice have motivated countless UPSC aspirants, particularly from Tamil Nadu and technical backgrounds.
Personal Life and Values
Keerthi Vasan maintains a low profile when it comes to his personal life. He credits his family, especially his parents and sister, for their unwavering support. When his UPSC results were announced, his parents were in Germany and immediately booked an early flight back to celebrate with him, reflecting their pride and joy.
Keerthi’s values are rooted in humility, hard work, and a desire to serve society. His interactions with IAS officers during college instilled in him a sense of social responsibility, which continues to guide his work as a civil servant.
Advice to UPSC Aspirants
Keerthi Vasan’s journey offers valuable lessons for UPSC aspirants. Some of his key advice includes:
- Selective Study Material: Avoid information overload by focusing on a limited set of high-quality resources and revising them thoroughly.
- Personalized Preparation: Tailor your strategy based on your strengths and weaknesses rather than blindly following others’ advice.
- First Attempt Advantage: Approach the first attempt with maximum effort, as it can provide a psychological edge during the interview.
- Resilience: For those who don’t succeed initially, Keerthi encourages perseverance, noting that reaching the mains or interview stage already places candidates among the top tier.
Conclusion
Keerthi Vasan, IAS, is a shining example of how dedication, strategic planning, and a passion for public service can lead to extraordinary success. From his days as a civil engineering student at NIT Trichy to his current role as a key administrator in Odisha, Keerthi’s journey is both inspiring and instructive. As he continues to serve the nation, his contributions to governance and development in Odisha are likely to leave a lasting impact.
Top FAQs About Keerthi Vasan, IAS
- Who is Keerthi Vasan, IAS?
Keerthi Vasan is an IAS officer of the 2018 batch, Odisha cadre, who secured AIR 29 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2017 on his first attempt. - What is Keerthi Vasan’s educational background?
He holds a B.Tech. in Civil Engineering from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Tiruchirappalli, graduating in 2016. - What was Keerthi Vasan’s optional subject in UPSC?
He chose Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) as his optional subject for the UPSC Mains examination. - What is Keerthi Vasan’s current posting?
As of the latest updates, he serves as the Chief Development Officer (CDO)-cum-Executive Officer of the Zilla Parishad in Ganjam district, Odisha. - How did Keerthi Vasan prepare for the UPSC exam?
He moved to New Delhi after graduation, enrolled in a nine-month coaching program, and emphasized self-study, selective resource use, and thorough revision. - What role did Keerthi Vasan play during the COVID-19 pandemic?
He was appointed as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in Ganjam district in August 2020, managing COVID-19 response efforts. - What advice does Keerthi Vasan give to UPSC aspirants?
He advises aspirants to keep study material limited, revise thoroughly, personalize their preparation, and approach the first attempt with full effort. - Where is Keerthi Vasan from?
Keerthi Vasan hails from Tamil Nadu, India, and has a strong connection to his Tamil heritage. - What inspired Keerthi Vasan to join the civil services?
His interactions with IAS and IPS officers during college events, along with the opportunity to work at personal, professional, and societal levels, inspired him. - Is Keerthi Vasan active on social media?
Keerthi maintains a low profile and is not widely active on public social media platforms, though he has shared guidance via email and interviews.
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