Skip to main content

Sonalika Jiwani, IAS: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family



Sonalika Jiwani, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 2017 batch, has emerged as a beacon of inspiration for aspirants aiming to crack the prestigious UPSC examination. With an All India Rank (AIR) of 192 in her very first attempt, Sonalika’s journey exemplifies dedication, strategic planning, and resilience. Currently serving as the Special Secretary of Urban Development in Delhi, she combines her technical expertise with a passion for public service to drive impactful urban governance.
Early Life and Background
Sonalika Jiwani was born and raised in Delhi, India, a city that would later become the canvas for her professional contributions. While specific details about her family and childhood remain private, it is evident that her upbringing in a dynamic urban environment instilled in her a deep sense of responsibility toward public welfare. From an early age, Sonalika displayed an aptitude for academics and a keen interest in problem-solving, traits that would shape her future career.
Her academic journey reflects a blend of technical prowess and a commitment to excellence. Sonalika pursued her schooling in Delhi, excelling in her studies and laying a strong foundation for higher education. Her curiosity and determination led her to one of India’s most prestigious institutions, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, where she embarked on a transformative academic chapter.
Educational Journey: From IIT Delhi to Public Service
Sonalika Jiwani graduated from IIT Delhi with a Bachelor’s degree in Production Engineering between 2011 and 2015. IIT Delhi, renowned for its rigorous curriculum and competitive environment, honed her analytical skills and technical expertise. During her time at IIT, she developed a strong foundation in engineering principles, problem-solving, and time management—skills that would later prove invaluable in her UPSC preparation and administrative career.
Not content with resting on her laurels, Sonalika furthered her education by pursuing a Master’s in Public Management. This advanced degree equipped her with insights into governance, policy-making, and urban planning, aligning perfectly with her aspirations to serve the nation through civil services. Her educational background, combining technical and managerial expertise, set her apart as a versatile and capable candidate for the IAS.
UPSC Journey: Cracking the Exam in the First Attempt
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination is widely regarded as one of the toughest competitive exams in India, requiring years of preparation for most candidates. However, Sonalika Jiwani defied the odds by securing an All India Rank of 192 in her first attempt in 2016. Her success with Geography as her optional subject is a testament to her strategic approach and disciplined preparation.
Preparation Strategy
Sonalika’s UPSC strategy has been widely discussed and admired by aspirants. She emphasized the importance of a well-structured routine and efficient time management. Her preparation can be broken down into key components:
  1. Daily Routine: Sonalika advocated waking up early (around 7:30 a.m.) and dedicating at least three hours daily to reading newspapers comprehensively. She made online notes to stay updated with current affairs, a critical component of the UPSC syllabus.
  2. Focus on Mains First: Unlike many aspirants who prioritize the Preliminary exam, Sonalika began her preparation with the Mains examination in mind. She covered static subjects like History, Polity, and Economy early on, supplementing them with daily newspaper reading to connect static knowledge with current events.
  3. Optional Subject Mastery: Choosing Geography as her optional subject, Sonalika tackled it alongside her General Studies preparation. She ensured a deep understanding of concepts, leveraging her analytical skills from her engineering background.
  4. Pre-Prelims Shift: Three months before the Preliminary exam, Sonalika shifted her focus to factual revision and current affairs, ensuring she was well-prepared for the objective format.
  5. Ethics and Essay Writing: Post-Prelims, she prioritized essay writing and Ethics (GS Paper IV), subjects often overlooked during early preparation. This balanced approach helped her excel in the Mains examination.
Her mantra of breaking time management into daily routines and exam schedules resonated with aspirants, showcasing her ability to plan meticulously. Sonalika’s success in her first attempt at the age of approximately 24-25 highlights her exceptional dedication and intellectual capacity.
Career in the Indian Administrative Service
Sonalika Jiwani joined the IAS in the 2017 batch, assigned to the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories) cadre. After completing her training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie, she embarked on a career marked by significant postings and contributions.
Early Postings
  • Assistant Secretary, Ministry of Commerce (2019): Upon completing Phase II training at LBSNAA, Sonalika was appointed Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India, for a 13-week stint from July to September 2019. This role provided her with exposure to national-level policy-making and trade administration.
  • Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Mehrauli (2021): Returning to Delhi, Sonalika served as the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Mehrauli, handling local governance and administrative challenges in one of Delhi’s key areas.
  • Deputy Commissioner (HQ), Revenue Department (2021): Later in 2021, she was transferred to the role of Deputy Commissioner (HQ) in the Revenue Department, a position that demanded coordination and oversight of revenue-related matters across Delhi.
Key Roles in Urban Governance
  • Deputy Commissioner (South), Revenue Department (2021): Sonalika took on the role of Deputy Commissioner (South) with the additional charge of Director, Delhi Institute of Heritage Research and Management (DIHRM). This posting allowed her to contribute to both revenue administration and heritage preservation.
  • Special Secretary, Urban Development (2022-Present): As of May 2022, Sonalika was appointed Special Secretary of Urban Development in Delhi, a role she continues to hold as of March 27, 2025. She also briefly held the additional charge of Special Secretary (NCR), reflecting her growing influence in urban planning. At 32 years old, she is driving initiatives to make Delhi a sustainable and efficient city, leveraging her technical and managerial expertise.
Contributions to Urban Development
As Special Secretary of Urban Development, Sonalika Jiwani has been instrumental in shaping Delhi’s urban landscape. Her work focuses on sustainable urban planning, infrastructure development, and efficient governance. With Delhi facing challenges like population growth, pollution, and resource management, Sonalika’s role involves crafting policies that balance growth with sustainability. Her engineering background aids in addressing technical aspects of urban projects, while her Master’s in Public Management ensures a holistic approach to governance.
Though specific projects under her leadership are not widely publicized, her tenure aligns with Delhi’s ongoing efforts to improve waste management, public transportation, and green spaces. Her contributions are poised to leave a lasting impact on the capital’s future.
Personal Life and Public Persona
Sonalika Jiwani maintains a low profile regarding her personal life. Details about her family, marital status, or hobbies are not publicly available, reflecting her focus on professional commitments. She is active on platforms like LinkedIn and X, where she shares insights into urban governance and her work, inspiring countless followers.
Her story resonates with UPSC aspirants, particularly women, as she exemplifies how determination and education can break barriers. Sonalika’s journey from IIT Delhi to the IAS underscores the power of perseverance and strategic planning.
Top FAQs About Sonalika Jiwani IAS
  1. What is Sonalika Jiwani’s UPSC rank and batch?
    Sonalika Jiwani secured an All India Rank of 192 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2016 and joined the IAS in the 2017 batch.
  2. What is Sonalika Jiwani’s educational background?
    She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Production Engineering from IIT Delhi (2011-2015) and a Master’s in Public Management.
  3. What is Sonalika Jiwani’s current posting?
    As of March 27, 2025, she serves as the Special Secretary of Urban Development in Delhi.
  4. Which optional subject did Sonalika Jiwani choose for UPSC?
    She opted for Geography as her optional subject, contributing to her success in the Mains examination.
  5. How did Sonalika Jiwani prepare for UPSC in her first attempt?
    She followed a structured routine, prioritized Mains preparation, read newspapers daily, and focused on Ethics and essay writing post-Prelims.
  6. What is Sonalika Jiwani’s age?
    Born around 1992-1993, she is approximately 32 years old as of 2025.
  7. Where can I follow Sonalika Jiwani’s updates?
    You can follow her on LinkedIn or X for insights into her work and urban governance.
  8. What cadre does Sonalika Jiwani belong to?
    She is part of the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories) cadre.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Ajit Hanamakkanavar: Profile, Wiki, Family, Caste and Wife

Ajit Hanamakkanavar is a prominent Indian journalist and news anchor, known for his outspoken style in the Kannada-language media. He currently holds a leadership position as Head of News and Programmes at Asianet Suvarna News , a popular regional news channel in Karnataka ( casemine.com ). Ajit initially gained attention through debate shows such as Left, Right & Centre , where his provocative questions and sharp commentary helped build his reputation as a bold and controversial figure ( casemine.com ). 📚 Early Life & Education Public records on Ajit's personal background, including birth year, hometown, and educational credentials, are limited. His rise in journalism appears rooted in local Kannada media, where he transitioned from reporting roles to anchoring and editorial responsibilities. 💼 Career Trajectory Regional Journalist – He began in Kannada-language television, gaining experience in reporting and anchoring for local audiences. Suvarna News Anch...
Post a Comment
Read more

Shilpa Gupta, IAS: Profile, Bio, Husband and Family

Shilpa Gupta, an accomplished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 2008 Madhya Pradesh cadre, stands as a beacon of diligence, integrity, and resilience. Known for her unwavering commitment to public service, she has carved a niche for herself in the bureaucratic landscape of India. This comprehensive biography delves into Shilpa Gupta’s life, education, career milestones, personal details, and her impactful contributions as an IAS officer in Madhya Pradesh. For aspirants, admirers, and those curious about her journey, this post offers an in-depth look at the woman behind the title. Early Life and Education of Shilpa Gupta Shilpa Gupta was born on March 16 in Delhi, India, into a middle-class business family. Growing up in the bustling capital city, she was exposed to a blend of urban opportunities and grounded values. Her formative years instilled in her a strong sense of discipline and determination—qualities that would later define her career as an IAS of...
Post a Comment
Read more

Varsha Singh, IAS – Profile, Career & Highlights

Varsha Singh is a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Bihar cadre , belonging to the 2016 batch. Currently serving as District Magistrate (DM) of Vaishali , she has earned acclaim for her dynamic leadership, efficient administration, and unwavering commitment to public welfare. This comprehensive profile delves into her background, career, notable assignments, recent updates, challenges, and intriguing personal facets. 🎓 Early Life & Education Origin & Studies : Hailing from a Maharashtra-based family, Varsha Singh completed her schooling and higher education in Maharashtra, a region known for its strong academic institutions. UPSC Journey : Through perseverance and rigorous self-study, she successfully qualified the UPSC Civil Services Examination, securing a placement in the prestigious 2016 IAS batch . 💼 Career Trajectory 🏛️ Initial Posts Began her administrative career in Bihar, taking on roles with increasing responsibiliti...
Post a Comment
Read more

Pooja Parashar, Journalist: Profile, Bio, Age, Boyfriend and Family

Pooja Parashar is a name that resonates with credibility and influence in the Indian media landscape. As a seasoned journalist and news anchor, she has carved a niche for herself through her incisive reporting, charismatic on-screen presence, and dedication to uncovering stories that matter. While detailed public information about her personal life and career remains limited, Pooja Parashar’s contributions to journalism, particularly in television and digital media, have earned her recognition among peers and audiences alike. Early Life and Background Pooja Parashar was born in India, with her roots likely tied to Delhi, as suggested by her professional and personal activities in the region. Specific details about her birth date, family background, and early childhood are not widely documented, reflecting her preference for maintaining a low public profile regarding personal matters. Growing up in a culturally rich and dynamic environment, Pooja developed an early interest in storytell...
Post a Comment
Read more

Garima Malik, IPS: Bio, Wiki, Husband, Family, Age and Caste

Garima Malik, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 2006 Bihar cadre, is a name synonymous with dedication, leadership, and resilience. Known for her exemplary service in one of India’s most challenging administrative landscapes, she has carved a niche as a dynamic and principled law enforcement officer. Early Life and Education Garima Malik was born and raised in a family that valued education and public service. While specific details about her birthplace and family background remain limited in public records, her academic journey reflects her commitment to excellence. She pursued higher education with a focus on preparing for one of India’s toughest examinations—the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination. Garima’s intellectual rigor and disciplined approach helped her crack the UPSC exam, securing a rank that earned her a coveted spot in the Indian Police Service. Her choice of IPS was driven by a desire to serve the nation, uphold justice, an...
Post a Comment
Read more

Madhavi Agarwal, BJP: Profile, Wiki, Age, Husband and Family

Name: Madhavi Agarwal Role: BJP Spokesperson, West Bengal Positions Held: BJP state media & communications voice Former Director, National Jute Manufactures Corporation (NJMC) Ex Board‑of‑Governors member, Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) under Ministry of Youth Affairs ( x.com , conservancy.umn.edu ) Madhavi Agarwal emerged from Kolkata's middle-class milieu, blending academic insight with grassroots activism. While details of her educational qualifications remain private, her early work in social organizations and focus on women's issues guided her into politics. She rose steadily through BJP’s state framework in the 2010s, ultimately becoming the party’s articulate media face in a key battleground state. 🎤 Role & Political Journey As BJP’s official spokesperson in West Bengal, Madhavi has a dual role: Defending the party’s policies in televised debates and press conferences Strengthening the party's outreach in a historically non-BJP state ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Shilpa Prabhakar Satish, IAS: Profile, Wiki, Husband, Age and Family

Shilpa Prabhakar Satish, an esteemed Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, is a prominent figure in Tamil Nadu’s bureaucratic landscape. Known for her dedication, leadership, and significant contributions to public administration, she has held several key positions in the state government. Recently, her name has surfaced in news due to a major bureaucratic reshuffle in Tamil Nadu. Early Life and Education of Shilpa Prabhakar Satish Shilpa Prabhakar Satish was born in Tamil Nadu, India, though specific details about her birth date and early childhood remain private, as is common with many IAS officers. She hails from a family that valued education and discipline, which played a pivotal role in shaping her career aspirations. Shilpa exhibited academic excellence from a young age, excelling in her studies and developing a keen interest in public service. She pursued her higher education at reputed institutions, though exact details about her college or degree are not widely pu...
Post a Comment
Read more

The Relationship Between Mansi Soni and Narendra Modi: Separating Truth, Myth, and Rumors

The alleged relationship between Mansi Soni and Narendra Modi, India’s Prime Minister, has been a subject of intense speculation, particularly following the 2013 “Snoopgate” controversy. This episode, centered around claims of illegal surveillance, sparked debates about Modi’s personal and political conduct during his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister. While some narratives suggest a personal connection between Modi and Soni, others dismiss these as politically motivated rumors. Who is Mansi Soni? Mansi Soni is an architect from Gujarat, born into a Bhuj-based business family known for its jewelry enterprise, Hem Jewellers. Her father, Pranlal Soni, is a prominent businessman and Rotarian who played a role in Bhuj’s reconstruction after the 2001 earthquake. Mansi graduated from BMS College of Engineering in Bangalore in 1999 with a degree in architecture and later became a director at Ecolibrium Energy, a smart-grid company founded by her brothers, Chintan and Harit Soni. The company ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Nikita Sharma, SDM: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Nikita Sharma, a dedicated Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, has emerged as a prominent figure in Indian administrative services. Known for her commitment to public service and her proactive approach to governance, Sharma has made significant contributions to her jurisdiction. However, her career has also been marked by recent controversies that have sparked public and political debates. Early Life and Education Nikita Sharma was born in [insert birthplace, if known, or general region, e.g., Uttar Pradesh, India] into a family that emphasized education and discipline. While specific details about her early life are not widely publicized, Sharma’s academic journey reflects her determination and intellectual prowess. She pursued her schooling with distinction, excelling in academics and extracurricular activities, which laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors. Sharma went on to complete her higher education, earning a [insert degree, if known, e.g...
Post a Comment
Read more

Riya Kejriwal, IAS: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Riya Kejriwal is a name that resonates with dedication, resilience, and excellence in the realm of Indian bureaucracy. As an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, she has carved a niche for herself through her commitment to public service and her ability to navigate the complexities of governance. Belonging to the 2017 batch, Riya Kejriwal’s journey from a determined aspirant to a respected civil servant is an inspiring tale of hard work and perseverance. Early Life and Background Riya Kejriwal was born into a family that valued education and discipline, though specific details about her birthplace and early childhood remain limited in the public domain. Like many successful IAS officers, her upbringing likely instilled in her a sense of responsibility and a drive to excel. Growing up in an environment that emphasized academic rigor, Riya developed an early interest in learning and problem-solving—qualities that would later define her career. Her formative years were marked by a...
Post a Comment
Read more