Arti Dogra, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Rajasthan cadre, is a beacon of inspiration for millions. Born in July 1979 in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, she defied societal stereotypes and physical challenges to become one of India’s most respected civil servants. Standing at 3 feet 6 inches, Arti has proven that determination, intellect, and a commitment to public service can overcome any obstacle. Her journey from a small-town girl to a trailblazing IAS officer is a testament to her resilience, supported by her family’s unwavering encouragement and her own indomitable spirit.
Early Life and Background
Arti Dogra was born in July 1979 to Colonel Rajendra Dogra, an Indian Army officer, and Kumkum Dogra, a school principal, in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. At the time of her birth, doctors informed her parents that she would not experience normal physical growth due to a medical condition, later identified as a form of dwarfism. They advised sending her to a special school for differently-abled children. However, her parents chose to defy conventional wisdom, enrolling her in a regular school to ensure she grew up in an inclusive environment. This decision shaped Arti’s perspective, fostering a sense of equality and determination that would define her life.
As an only child, Arti was cherished by her parents, who rejected societal pressures to have another child. Their confidence in her potential fueled her ambition. Growing up, she faced discrimination and bullying due to her height, but her parents’ support and her own resilience helped her rise above negativity. Arti’s story is a powerful reminder that physical appearance does not define one’s capabilities.
Education: A Foundation for Success
Arti Dogra’s academic journey reflects her commitment to excellence. She attended Welham Girls’ School in Dehradun, a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academic standards. Despite facing societal prejudice, she excelled in her studies, proving her intellectual prowess. After completing her schooling, Arti pursued higher education at Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University, where she earned a degree in Economics. Her time at LSR was transformative, exposing her to diverse perspectives and honing her analytical skills.
Following her undergraduate studies, Arti returned to Dehradun to pursue postgraduate studies. Her academic achievements laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors, particularly her preparation for the highly competitive Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination. Inspired by IAS officer Manisha Panwar, the first woman IAS officer from Dehradun, Arti set her sights on a career in public service.
Cracking the UPSC: A Monumental Achievement
In 2006, Arti Dogra achieved a remarkable feat by clearing the UPSC Civil Services Examination on her first attempt, securing an All India Rank (AIR) of 56. This accomplishment was particularly significant given the challenges she faced due to her physical stature. The UPSC examination, known for its rigorous selection process, tests candidates on a wide range of subjects, from general knowledge to administrative aptitude. Arti’s success underscored her intellectual brilliance and determination.
After clearing the exam, Arti underwent training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. This training equipped her with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of governance and public administration. Her 2006 batch, a diverse group of individuals united by a shared commitment to public service, marked the beginning of her illustrious career as an IAS officer.
Career Highlights: Breaking Barriers in Public Service
Arti Dogra’s career as an IAS officer of the Rajasthan cadre is marked by groundbreaking achievements and transformative initiatives. Her postings across various districts and roles have showcased her ability to drive change and implement innovative policies. Below are some key highlights of her career:
1. Managing Director of Jodhpur Discom
Arti made history as the first woman IAS officer to serve as the Managing Director of Jodhpur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd., a power distribution company in Rajasthan. Her tenure was marked by efforts to ensure efficient power distribution, breaking gender norms and setting a precedent for inclusive leadership in the energy sector. Her work in this role earned her widespread recognition and established her as a trailblazer in a traditionally male-dominated field.
2. District Magistrate of Bikaner and Bundi
As District Magistrate (DM) of Bikaner and Bundi, Arti spearheaded transformative social welfare programs. One of her most notable initiatives was the Banko Bikano campaign in Bikaner, a community-led sanitation drive aimed at eliminating open defecation. Under her leadership, hundreds of toilets were constructed across 195 gram panchayats, and the campaign raised awareness about water and land sanitation. The initiative’s success was recognized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and became a model for sanitation programs nationwide.
3. Joint Secretary to the Chief Minister
In 2018, Arti was appointed Joint Secretary to Rajasthan’s Chief Minister, Ashok Gehlot. In this role, she played a pivotal part in shaping policies that prioritized the welfare of all citizens, regardless of background or ability. Her inclusive approach to governance ensured that marginalized communities were represented in policy decisions.
4. District Election Officer in Ajmer
As the District Election Officer during the 2018 Ajmer Assembly polls, Arti ensured free and fair elections, achieving a voter turnout of 59.88% by making polling stations accessible to differently-abled individuals. Her stellar performance earned her the prestigious National Award in 2019, presented by President Ram Nath Kovind, with Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad in attendance.
5. Chairman of Rajasthan Discom
In a significant administrative reshuffle in 2024, the Bhajanlal Sharma government appointed Arti as the Chairman of Rajasthan Discom, a critical role in the state’s power sector. This appointment underscored her reputation as a capable and visionary administrator.
Awards and Recognition
Arti Dogra’s contributions to public service have been widely recognized. Some of her notable accolades include:
- National Award (2019): Conferred by President Ram Nath Kovind for her exemplary work as District Election Officer in Ajmer.
- Daughters Are Precious Award (2018): Awarded at Rajasthan’s fourth Healthcare Summit in Jaipur, recognizing her efforts toward gender equality and women’s welfare.
- State and National Recognition: Arti has received multiple awards for her innovative campaigns and dedication to public service.
Her work has also been praised by prominent leaders, including former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia and current Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, highlighting her impact on governance and administration.
Personal Life: A Source of Strength
Arti Dogra’s personal life reflects the same resilience and positivity that define her professional journey. As the only child of her parents, she shares a close bond with them, crediting their unwavering support for her success. Her father, Colonel Rajendra Dogra, and mother, Kumkum Dogra, provided her with a nurturing environment that encouraged her to pursue her dreams without limitations.
While there is limited public information about her marital status, Arti has maintained a private personal life, focusing public attention on her professional achievements. Her story resonates with individuals facing societal prejudice, particularly those with disabilities, as she embodies the idea that courage and dedication can overcome any challenge.
Key Initiatives and Social Impact
Arti Dogra’s tenure as an IAS officer is defined by her people-centric approach. In addition to the Banko Bikano campaign, she launched initiatives like Mission Against Anaemia and Maa, aimed at improving public health and empowering women. Her Doctors for Daughters program in Bikaner encouraged doctors to adopt orphan and underprivileged girls, addressing gender disparities and supporting vulnerable communities.
Her work aligns with national priorities like the Swachh Bharat Mission, emphasizing behavioral change and sustainable development. Arti’s ability to connect with communities and implement grassroots solutions has made her a role model for aspiring civil servants.
Legacy and Inspiration
Arti Dogra’s journey is a powerful narrative of breaking stereotypes and redefining success. Her height, often a subject of societal scrutiny, has never deterred her from achieving her goals. Instead, it has become a symbol of her resilience and determination. She has inspired countless individuals, particularly those with disabilities, to pursue their dreams with confidence.
Her story also highlights the importance of inclusive education and parental support in shaping a child’s future. By choosing to attend a regular school and excelling in her studies, Arti proved that limitations are often societal constructs that can be overcome with perseverance.
Recent Developments (2025)
As of 2025, Arti Dogra continues to serve as the Chairman of Rajasthan Discom, a role that underscores her expertise in the energy sector. Her appointment in 2024 by the Bhajanlal Sharma government reflects her growing influence in Rajasthan’s administrative landscape. She remains a prominent figure in public discourse, inspiring young aspirants preparing for the UPSC examination and advocating for inclusive governance.
Why Arti Dogra’s Story Matters
Arti Dogra’s biography is not just a story of personal triumph but a call to action for society to embrace inclusivity and reject stereotypes. Her achievements as an IAS officer demonstrate that talent, dedication, and a commitment to public service can create lasting change. For UPSC aspirants, her journey serves as a reminder that hard work and resilience can lead to extraordinary success, regardless of the challenges one faces.
Top FAQs About Arti Dogra, IAS
- Who is Arti Dogra? Arti Dogra is a 2006-batch IAS officer of the Rajasthan cadre, known for her inspiring journey and contributions to public service. Standing at 3 feet 6 inches, she has overcome societal stereotypes to become a trailblazing administrator.
- What is Arti Dogra’s educational background? Arti completed her schooling at Welham Girls’ School in Dehradun and graduated in Economics from Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University. She also pursued postgraduate studies in Dehradun.
- What is Arti Dogra’s height? Arti Dogra stands at 3 feet 6 inches tall, making her one of the shortest IAS officers in India. Her height has never hindered her achievements.
- What are some of Arti Dogra’s notable achievements? She cleared the UPSC exam in 2006 on her first attempt with an AIR of 56, served as the first woman Managing Director of Jodhpur Discom, and received the National Award in 2019 for her work as District Election Officer in Ajmer.
- What is the Banko Bikano campaign? Banko Bikano is a community-led sanitation campaign initiated by Arti Dogra in Bikaner to eliminate open defecation and promote water and land sanitation. It resulted in the construction of hundreds of toilets and gained national recognition.
- What awards has Arti Dogra received? Arti has been honored with the National Award (2019) by President Ram Nath Kovind and the Daughters Are Precious Award (2018) for her contributions to gender equality and public service.
- What is Arti Dogra’s current posting? As of 2025, Arti Dogra serves as the Chairman of Rajasthan Discom, appointed by the Bhajanlal Sharma government in 2024.
- How did Arti Dogra’s parents support her? Her parents, Colonel Rajendra Dogra and Kumkum Dogra, enrolled her in a regular school despite medical advice, fostering an inclusive environment that empowered her to pursue her dreams.
- What inspired Arti Dogra to become an IAS officer? Arti was inspired by her parents’ support and IAS officer Manisha Panwar, the first woman IAS officer from Dehradun, whom she met during her postgraduate studies.
- How does Arti Dogra inspire others? Arti’s journey of overcoming physical challenges and societal prejudice inspires individuals, particularly those with disabilities, to pursue their goals with determination and resilience.
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