Ilma Afroz, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the 2018 batch, is a beacon of resilience, determination, and public service. Hailing from Kundarki, a small town in Uttar Pradesh’s Moradabad district, Ilma’s journey from a farmer’s daughter to a distinguished IPS officer is a testament to her grit and unwavering commitment to societal welfare.
Early Life and Background
Ilma Afroz was born on July 1, 1990, in Kundarki, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, into a modest farming family. Growing up in a rural setting, Ilma faced significant challenges early on. At the age of 14, she lost her father to cancer, a tragedy that left her mother to raise Ilma and her younger brother single-handedly. Despite financial hardships, Ilma’s mother prioritized education, defying societal norms that often pressured families to save for a daughter’s dowry. Instead, she invested in Ilma’s academic pursuits, instilling values of hard work and perseverance.
Ilma’s humble beginnings shaped her worldview. She often worked in the fields alongside her mother, experiencing firsthand the struggles of rural life. These experiences fueled her desire to uplift her community and contribute to India’s progress. Her mother, a pillar of strength despite battling cancer herself, remains Ilma’s greatest inspiration.
Educational Journey: From Kundarki to Oxford
Ilma’s academic excellence set her apart from an early age. She completed her schooling in Moradabad, consistently ranking among the top students. Her intellectual prowess earned her admission to St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University, where she graduated with honors in Philosophy. Ilma credits her time at St. Stephen’s for shaping her analytical thinking and empathy, qualities that later defined her career.
Her academic journey didn’t stop there. Ilma secured a scholarship to study at Sciences Po in Paris as an exchange student, broadening her global perspective. She then earned a prestigious scholarship to pursue a Master’s in International Relations at the University of Oxford’s Wolfson College. At Oxford, Ilma engaged in debates at the Oxford Union, honing her ability to appreciate diverse worldviews.
After Oxford, Ilma participated in a voluntary service program in Manhattan, New York, and briefly worked with the United Nations in Indonesia. These international experiences enriched her understanding of governance and social issues, but her heart remained in India. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of serving the marginalized, Ilma decided to return home to contribute to her nation’s development.
UPSC Journey and IPS Career
In 2017, Ilma Afroz cleared the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination, one of India’s most challenging competitive exams, securing an All India Rank of 217. Her achievement marked her entry into the Indian Police Service (IPS), and she was allocated to the Himachal Pradesh cadre in August 2018.
Ilma underwent a rigorous 16-month training program, mastering physical endurance, tactical skills, legal studies, and community engagement strategies. Her first posting was in Mandi district as a probationary officer, followed by roles as Sub-Divisional Police Officer in Una and Superintendent of Police (SP) of the State Disaster Response Force. In 2024, she was appointed SP of Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, her first district-level leadership role.
As SP, Ilma focused on community policing, women’s safety, and youth empowerment. She initiated programs to combat domestic violence, harassment, and gender-based crimes, earning widespread respect. Ilma also founded the “Hope” initiative, a grassroots network promoting education for underprivileged children, reflecting her commitment to social upliftment.
Recent Developments and Controversies
In November 2024, Ilma Afroz made headlines due to a reported conflict with Congress MLA Ram Kumar Chaudhary in Himachal Pradesh. The tension arose after Ilma issued fines to vehicles linked to Chaudhary’s family, allegedly involved in illegal sand mining. On November 7, 2024, Ilma took a 15-day earned leave to attend to her ailing mother in Moradabad, amid speculations of political pressure. She later applied for a seven-day extension, which was not confirmed.
On December 16, 2024, Ilma was transferred to the Police Headquarters in Shimla, a move that sparked debate. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Sucha Ram alleged that her transfer violated a Himachal Pradesh High Court order from September 2024, which prohibited her transfer without court permission. The court raised concerns about the state government’s actions, and the case was forwarded to a previous bench for further hearing on February 28, 2025.
Despite these challenges, Ilma’s reputation for integrity remains intact. Senior IPS officers have noted that honest officers often face such obstacles, and her actions against illegal mining and drug trafficking have earned her both admiration and criticism.
Personal Life and Values
Ilma Afroz is married to Chandrajit Kusha, though she maintains a private personal life. Her family, particularly her mother, continues to be her emotional anchor. Ilma’s social media presence, particularly on Instagram, reflects her grounded personality. Her first post in 2020 was from the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, and she often shares tributes to her mother, calling her the “world’s bravest woman.”
Ilma’s philosophy is rooted in empathy and service. Inspired by Gandhi’s concept of “Antodaya” (uplifting the most marginalized), she strives to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Her initiative to run an evening school for poor children in Baddi underscores her commitment to education and social equity.
Achievements and Recognition
Ilma Afroz’s journey has been widely celebrated. She is a Rhodes Scholar, a rare honor for her uncompromising stand against illegal activities. Her work has attracted international attention, with invitations to speak at Columbia University and visits from academics at the University of York and the London School of Economics to Baddi.
Social media posts by the IPS Association and The Better India have lauded her as an inspiration, particularly for women and UPSC aspirants. Her story of overcoming gender prejudices and financial hardships resonates with millions, proving that determination can break barriers.
Ilma Afroz’s Net Worth
As of 2024, Ilma Afroz’s net worth is estimated at approximately INR 1 crore, primarily from her salary as an IPS officer. Exact financial details are not publicly disclosed, as is common for public servants in India.
Why Ilma Afroz Inspires
Ilma Afroz’s story is one of courage, sacrifice, and purpose. From working in the fields to studying at Oxford, she never lost sight of her roots. Her decision to leave a comfortable life abroad to serve India reflects her deep sense of duty. Ilma’s focus on women’s safety, youth empowerment, and education makes her a role model for aspiring civil servants and anyone striving to overcome adversity.
Her recent challenges highlight the complexities of public service, yet her resilience continues to inspire. Ilma’s journey reminds us that true success lies in making a difference, no matter the obstacles.
Top FAQs About Ilma Afroz IPS
1. Who is Ilma Afroz?
Ilma Afroz is an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the 2018 batch, currently serving in the Himachal Pradesh cadre. Born in Kundarki, Uttar Pradesh, she cleared the UPSC exam in 2017 with an All India Rank of 217 and is known for her work in community policing and women’s safety.
2. What is Ilma Afroz’s educational background?
Ilma graduated with honors in Philosophy from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University. She pursued a Master’s in International Relations at Oxford University on a scholarship and studied at Sciences Po, Paris, as an exchange student.
3. Why was Ilma Afroz sent on leave in 2024?
Ilma took a 15-day earned leave in November 2024 to attend to her ailing mother, amid reported tensions with Congress MLA Ram Kumar Chaudhary after fining vehicles linked to his family for illegal mining. Speculations of political pressure arose, but the leave was officially for personal reasons.
4. What is the controversy surrounding Ilma Afroz’s transfer?
In December 2024, Ilma was transferred to Shimla’s Police Headquarters, allegedly violating a Himachal Pradesh High Court order prohibiting her transfer without permission. A PIL claimed the transfer was due to political pressure, and the case is under review, with a hearing scheduled for February 2025.
5. Is Ilma Afroz married?
Yes, Ilma Afroz is married to Chandrajit Kusha. However, she keeps her personal life private, and little information is available about her family.
6. What is Ilma Afroz’s net worth?
As of 2024, Ilma Afroz’s net worth is estimated at approximately INR 1 crore, primarily from her IPS salary. Exact details are not publicly disclosed.
7. What initiatives has Ilma Afroz undertaken?
Ilma founded the “Hope” initiative to promote education for underprivileged children and runs an evening school in Baddi for poor children. She also focuses on women’s safety and youth empowerment through community policing programs.
8. Why is Ilma Afroz considered an inspiration?
Ilma’s journey from a rural village to Oxford and her decision to serve India as an IPS officer despite international opportunities make her a role model. Her resilience, integrity, and commitment to public service inspire UPSC aspirants and women.
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