Anjum Ara, a name synonymous with resilience, determination, and public service, holds the distinction of being India's second Muslim woman Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. Hailing from the small village of Kamharia in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in Indian law enforcement is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Life and Background
Anjum Ara was born in Kamharia, a small village in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, to Ayub Shaikh, a junior engineer in the Rural Engineering Services Department, and a homemaker mother. Growing up in a modest household, Anjum was the second of her parents' children, raised in an environment that valued education and perseverance. Her father, a government employee, played a pivotal role in encouraging her ambitions, particularly when she expressed her desire to pursue a career in the police services.
Her early education took place in Gangoh, Saharanpur, where she attended Arya Kanya Inter-College for her secondary education. Anjum excelled academically, securing a first division in her higher secondary examinations at HR Inter College. Her academic prowess led her to pursue a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree from an engineering college in Lucknow, laying a strong foundation for her future endeavors. This technical education, combined with her determination, set the stage for her eventual success in one of India's most challenging competitive examinations.
The Path to Becoming an IPS Officer
Anjum Ara's journey to becoming an IPS officer was marked by perseverance and an unwavering commitment to her goals. Despite facing societal discouragement, particularly due to her gender and background, she remained steadfast in her ambition to join the Indian Police Service. Her father’s encouragement was a cornerstone of her success, providing her with the emotional and moral support needed to navigate challenges.
In 2011, Anjum cleared the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination, one of the most rigorous and competitive exams in India. Her success earned her a place in the prestigious Indian Police Service, making her the second Muslim woman in India to achieve this feat, following Sara Rizvi from Mumbai, who joined the IPS in 2008. Anjum was allotted the Manipur cadre, marking the beginning of her illustrious career in law enforcement.
Career in the Indian Police Service
Anjum Ara’s career in the IPS has been defined by her dedication to public safety, law enforcement, and social justice. After completing her training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad, she began her service in Manipur, a state known for its complex socio-political landscape. Her early postings included roles that tested her ability to handle sensitive law enforcement challenges with tact and efficiency.
One of her significant assignments was as the Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Her work in Shimla earned her recognition for her proactive approach to policing and community engagement. Later, she was promoted to Superintendent of Police (SP) for Cyber Crime in Shimla, where she tackled the growing challenges of cyber threats and digital security. Her expertise in this domain highlighted her adaptability to modern policing demands.
By 2016, Anjum Ara was serving as the Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Solan, Himachal Pradesh. Her tenure in Solan was marked by efforts to strengthen law enforcement, enhance public safety, and address local issues with empathy and efficiency. Her leadership style, characterized by a blend of firmness and compassion, earned her respect among colleagues and the communities she served.
Personal Life and Family
Anjum Ara’s personal life is as inspiring as her professional journey. She is married to Yunus Khan, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, forming a power couple dedicated to public service. Their partnership is a testament to their shared commitment to serving the nation. Together, they have demonstrated remarkable compassion, notably by adopting the daughter of Naib Subedar Paramjeet Singh, a soldier martyred in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch sector. This act of kindness, reported in 2017, garnered widespread admiration and highlighted their dedication to social welfare beyond their official duties.
Despite her demanding career, Anjum maintains a balance between her professional responsibilities and personal life. Her ability to juggle these roles underscores her strength and commitment to both her family and her nation.
Contributions and Achievements
Anjum Ara’s contributions extend beyond her policing duties. As a role model for women, particularly from minority communities, she has shattered stereotypes and inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams despite societal barriers. Her journey from a small village to a high-ranking IPS officer serves as a beacon of hope for young women aspiring to enter civil services.
Her work in cybercrime prevention has been particularly noteworthy. As SP Cyber Crime in Shimla, she played a crucial role in raising awareness about digital security and combating cyber threats, an area of growing importance in modern policing. Her efforts have helped strengthen the framework for addressing cyber offenses in Himachal Pradesh.
In 2017, Anjum and her husband Yunus Khan made headlines for their humanitarian gesture of adopting the daughter of a martyred soldier. This act not only provided support to the martyr’s family but also set an example of compassion and social responsibility. Their decision was widely covered by media outlets, including Amar Ujala, which praised the couple for their selflessness.
Challenges and Resilience
Anjum Ara’s path to success was not without obstacles. Coming from a conservative rural background, she faced skepticism and discouragement from those who questioned her ambition to join the IPS. The UPSC examination itself is a formidable challenge, requiring years of preparation and mental fortitude. Anjum’s ability to overcome these hurdles through sheer determination and hard work is a testament to her resilience.
As a Muslim woman in a male-dominated profession, she also navigated challenges related to gender and religious stereotypes. Her success in this context highlights her ability to break barriers and pave the way for greater inclusivity in the Indian Police Service.
In January 2025, reports surfaced about a legal case filed against Anjum Ara, as noted by Navbharat Times. While details of the case remain limited, such challenges are not uncommon for high-profile officers in public service. Anjum’s professionalism and commitment to her duties continue to define her response to such situations, maintaining her focus on serving the public.
Impact and Legacy
Anjum Ara’s legacy is one of empowerment, service, and breaking new ground. As the second Muslim woman IPS officer in India, she has inspired a generation of women to pursue careers in civil services, particularly in law enforcement. Her story resonates with those from marginalized communities, proving that determination and education can overcome even the most formidable barriers.
Her contributions to policing, particularly in cybercrime prevention, have had a lasting impact on the regions she served. By addressing modern challenges like digital security, she has helped modernize policing practices in Himachal Pradesh. Her humanitarian efforts, such as adopting the daughter of a martyred soldier, further cement her legacy as a compassionate leader.
Anjum’s story has been covered by various media outlets, including Milli Gazette, Jansatta, and Bhaskar, which have highlighted her journey as an inspiration. Her Facebook page, with over 292,000 followers, reflects her widespread popularity and the admiration she commands among the public.
Conclusion
Anjum Ara, IPS, is more than just an officer; she is a symbol of hope, resilience, and public service. From her roots in a small village in Uttar Pradesh to her role as a trailblazing IPS officer, her journey embodies the power of determination and hard work. Her contributions to law enforcement, cybercrime prevention, and social welfare have left an indelible mark on society. As she continues her service, Anjum Ara remains an inspiration for aspiring civil servants and a testament to the impact one individual can have on their community and nation.
FAQs About Anjum Ara, IPS
- Who is Anjum Ara?
Anjum Ara is an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 2011 batch, known for being the second Muslim woman IPS officer in India. She hails from Kamharia, Azamgarh, and currently serves as a Superintendent of Police in Himachal Pradesh. - What is Anjum Ara’s educational background?
Anjum completed her secondary education at Arya Kanya Inter-College in Saharanpur and her higher secondary education at HR Inter College. She holds a B.Tech degree from an engineering college in Lucknow. - What are Anjum Ara’s notable achievements?
She became the second Muslim woman IPS officer in India in 2011, served as SP Cyber Crime and SSP Solan in Himachal Pradesh, and, along with her husband, adopted the daughter of a martyred soldier in 2017. - Who is Anjum Ara’s husband?
Anjum Ara is married to Yunus Khan, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer. Together, they are known for their commitment to public service and humanitarian efforts. - What challenges did Anjum Ara face in her career?
Anjum faced societal discouragement due to her gender and background, as well as the rigorous demands of the UPSC examination. She also navigated challenges related to gender and religious stereotypes in her profession. - What is the significance of Anjum Ara’s adoption of a martyr’s daughter?
In 2017, Anjum and her husband Yunus Khan adopted the daughter of Naib Subedar Paramjeet Singh, martyred in Jammu and Kashmir, showcasing their compassion and commitment to social welfare. - Where is Anjum Ara currently posted?
As of the latest available information, Anjum Ara is serving as the Superintendent of Police in Solan, Himachal Pradesh. - How has Anjum Ara contributed to cybercrime prevention?
As SP Cyber Crime in Shimla, Anjum worked on raising awareness about digital security and combating cyber threats, strengthening the framework for addressing cyber offenses in Himachal Pradesh.
Comments
Post a Comment