Prakash Rajpurohit, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, is a name synonymous with dedication, resilience, and excellence in public service. Known for securing All India Rank (AIR) 2 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination of 2009, Prakash has emerged as a beacon of inspiration for aspirants across India. His journey—from a brilliant student at IIT Delhi to a compassionate and efficient administrator—reflects a rare blend of intellect, hard work, and a commitment to societal welfare.
Early Life and Background
Prakash Rajpurohit was born into a modest family in Barmer, a district in western Rajasthan, India. Hailing from a region known for its arid landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Prakash’s upbringing was grounded in simplicity and strong familial values. His father, Devi Singh Rajpurohit, worked as a manager at a public sector company, Seaton India Ltd., while his mother, Rama Rajpurohit, was a homemaker who nurtured his early years with care and encouragement. As the only child, Prakash grew up with the undivided attention and support of his parents, which played a pivotal role in shaping his ambitions.
From a young age, Prakash exhibited an exceptional aptitude for academics, particularly in mathematics—a subject that would later become his strength in competitive exams. His curiosity and determination set him apart, even in the resource-scarce environment of Barmer. The Rajpurohit community, to which Prakash belongs, is a martial Brahmin caste with a history of serving as administrators and warriors in Rajasthan. This legacy of service and leadership subtly influenced Prakash’s aspirations to contribute to society on a larger scale.
Educational Journey: From Barmer to IIT Delhi
Prakash’s academic brilliance shone early on. After completing his schooling in Rajasthan, he set his sights on one of India’s most prestigious institutions—the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). In 2003, at the age of 17, Prakash cracked the IIT-JEE (Joint Entrance Examination), securing an impressive All India Rank 4. This achievement marked his entry into IIT Delhi, where he pursued a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering.
His time at IIT Delhi was transformative, though not without challenges. As a fresher in 2003, Prakash faced a harrowing experience with ragging, a common issue in Indian colleges at the time. Refusing to succumb to the humiliation, he took a bold stand by filing a police complaint, becoming one of the first students at IIT Delhi to publicly oppose ragging. This incident highlighted his courage and sense of justice—qualities that would later define his administrative career. Despite the initial setback, Prakash excelled academically, honing his analytical skills and deepening his love for mathematics and engineering.
After graduating from IIT Delhi, Prakash briefly worked with a startup IT firm in Noida. However, his heart was set on a career that offered greater diversity and the opportunity to serve the public. This realization led him to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination, a gateway to India’s elite administrative services.
UPSC Journey: Rising to AIR 2 in 2009
Prakash Rajpurohit’s transition from an engineer to an IAS aspirant was a calculated and determined move. Inspired by the success stories of previous UPSC toppers like Mutyala Raju Revu (AIR 1, 2006) and Supreet Singh Gulati (AIR 2, 2007), Prakash began his preparation in 2007. Unlike many aspirants who rely heavily on coaching institutes, Prakash chose a self-study approach, dedicating 8-10 hours daily for two years.
For his optional subjects, Prakash selected Electrical Engineering and Mathematics—disciplines he was already proficient in due to his IIT background. His strategy was pragmatic: leverage his existing knowledge while meticulously covering the UPSC syllabus. He emphasized understanding the syllabus, analyzing previous years’ papers, and practicing problem-solving, particularly for Mathematics. Prakash’s disciplined routine, coupled with unwavering parental support, propelled him forward.
His first attempt in 2008 did not yield the desired result, but Prakash viewed it as a stepping stone rather than a setback. Undeterred, he refined his approach and reappeared in 2009. His perseverance paid off spectacularly when he secured AIR 2, just behind Dr. Shah Faesal, the topper that year. At 24, Prakash became one of the youngest toppers of his batch, earning widespread admiration for his intellect and tenacity.
Career as an IAS Officer
Prakash Rajpurohit joined the Indian Administrative Service in 2010, opting for the Rajasthan cadre—his home state—where he felt a deep connection and a desire to serve. Over the years, he has held various significant positions, showcasing his administrative acumen and empathy. As of March 29, 2025, Prakash continues to serve as a senior IAS officer, with a career marked by impactful contributions.
One of his notable postings was as the District Collector of Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital. During his tenure, Prakash gained national attention for his compassionate approach to governance. A viral video from 2023 showed him patiently listening to a specially-abled man during a public hearing, even allowing the individual to sit on his desk to ensure comfort. This gesture won hearts across India, earning praise from fellow IAS and IPS officers, as well as the public. It underscored Prakash’s belief that administration is as much about heart as it is about intellect.
Prakash’s work has spanned diverse domains, including rural development, urban planning, and public welfare initiatives. His technical background has enabled him to implement innovative solutions, while his grounded personality has made him approachable to citizens. Whether addressing infrastructure challenges or tackling social issues, Prakash has consistently demonstrated a commitment to efficient and inclusive governance.
Personal Life and Values
While Prakash Rajpurohit’s professional life is well-documented, he maintains a low profile regarding his personal life. As of 2025, there is limited public information about his marital status or family, reflecting his preference for privacy. His parents remain his pillars of strength, and he often credits their unwavering support for his success.
Prakash’s values—integrity, empathy, and resilience—shine through in both his personal and professional spheres. His early stand against ragging, his decision to forgo coaching in favor of self-study, and his compassionate administrative style all point to a man driven by principle rather than convention. Outside his official duties, Prakash has also contributed to education by co-authoring a book, Mathematics for the JEE Advanced, with his IIT friend Manan Khurma, published by Pearson Education. This 1000+ page resource reflects his passion for mentoring aspiring students.
Legacy and Inspiration
Prakash Rajpurohit’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and intellect in overcoming challenges. From a small town in Rajasthan to the corridors of power in India’s bureaucracy, he has carved a path that inspires countless UPSC aspirants and young professionals. His story resonates with those who dream big despite limited resources, proving that success is attainable through focus and hard work.
As of March 29, 2025, Prakash continues to serve with distinction, leaving an indelible mark on Rajasthan’s administrative landscape. His legacy is not just in the ranks he achieved but in the lives he has touched through his service. For IAS aspirants, Prakash remains a role model—a reminder that the civil services are not just about prestige but about making a tangible difference.
Prakash Rajpurohit IAS: Key Highlights
- Born: Barmer, Rajasthan
- Education: B.Tech in Electrical Engineering, IIT Delhi (AIR 4, IIT-JEE 2003)
- UPSC Achievement: AIR 2, Civil Services Examination 2009
- Cadre: Rajasthan
- Notable Role: District Collector, Jaipur
- Contributions: Public welfare, education (co-authored JEE book)
- Known For: Compassionate governance, self-study success
Top FAQs About Prakash Rajpurohit IAS
1. What is Prakash Rajpurohit’s rank in the UPSC exam?
Prakash Rajpurohit secured All India Rank 2 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination of 2009.
2. Which cadre did Prakash Rajpurohit choose?
He opted for the Rajasthan cadre, his home state, to serve as an IAS officer.
3. What was Prakash Rajpurohit’s educational background?
He holds a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from IIT Delhi, where he enrolled after securing AIR 4 in the IIT-JEE 2003.
4. Did Prakash Rajpurohit take coaching for UPSC?
No, Prakash relied on self-study, dedicating 8-10 hours daily for two years to crack the UPSC exam.
5. What are Prakash Rajpurohit’s optional subjects in UPSC?
He chose Electrical Engineering and Mathematics as his optional subjects, leveraging his IIT background.
6. What is Prakash Rajpurohit known for as an IAS officer?
He is known for his empathetic governance, notably highlighted by his interaction with a specially-abled man during a public hearing in Jaipur.
7. Has Prakash Rajpurohit contributed to education?
Yes, he co-authored Mathematics for the JEE Advanced, a comprehensive book for IIT-JEE aspirants, published by Pearson Education.
8. Where is Prakash Rajpurohit posted as of 2025?
As of March 29, 2025, specific details about his current posting are not widely publicized, but he continues to serve in the Rajasthan cadre.
9. What inspired Prakash Rajpurohit to join the IAS?
He was drawn to the diversity, challenges, and opportunities for public service that the IAS offered, inspired by previous UPSC toppers.
10. How did Prakash Rajpurohit handle his first UPSC attempt?
After failing to clear in 2008, he used the experience to refine his strategy, leading to his AIR 2 rank in 2009.
Comments
Post a Comment