Dr. Sneha Suryakant Gitte is a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 2019 batch of the Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre. Known for her academic excellence, dedication to public service, and inspiring journey, Sneha Gitte has emerged as a role model for UPSC aspirants and young professionals across India.
Early Life and Background
Sneha Suryakant Gitte was born on August 18, 1993, in Maharashtra, India. Growing up in a family that valued education and perseverance, Sneha displayed remarkable academic and personal determination from a young age. Her parents played a pivotal role in nurturing her ambitions, encouraging her to pursue higher education and contribute meaningfully to society. While specific details about her family background are limited, it is evident that their support was instrumental in shaping her career path.
Sneha’s early years were marked by a strong inclination toward academics, coupled with a curiosity to understand societal challenges. Her upbringing in Maharashtra, a state known for its rich cultural heritage and educational institutions, provided her with a solid foundation to chase her dreams.
Educational Journey
Sneha Gitte’s academic journey is a testament to her intellectual prowess and commitment to excellence. She pursued her M.B.B.S. (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) from the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik. Her decision to study medicine reflects her early interest in serving society, as the medical field is often associated with compassion and public welfare.
Despite her medical background, Sneha’s aspirations extended beyond clinical practice. Inspired by the opportunity to address systemic issues and drive large-scale societal change, she set her sights on the prestigious UPSC Civil Services Examination, one of the most competitive exams in India. To prepare for the UPSC, Sneha chose Anthropology as her optional subject, leveraging her analytical skills and ability to grasp complex concepts.
Her educational journey underscores her versatility, as she transitioned from a medical background to mastering the demands of civil services preparation, a feat that requires immense discipline and adaptability.
UPSC Journey and Success
Sneha Gitte’s UPSC journey is nothing short of inspiring. In 2019, at the age of 25, she cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in her first attempt, securing an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 331. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the exam’s rigorous selection process, which includes the Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, and Interview stages.
Her performance in the UPSC exam was exceptional, with a total score of 989 marks, comprising 835 marks in the Main Exam and 154 marks in the Interview. Sneha’s choice of Anthropology as her optional subject proved strategic, as it aligned with her analytical strengths and helped her score well in the Main Exam. Her success in the UPSC exam highlights her meticulous preparation, time management, and ability to perform under pressure.
Sneha’s journey serves as an inspiration for UPSC aspirants, particularly those from non-traditional backgrounds like medicine, demonstrating that with determination and the right strategy, success in the civil services is achievable.
Professional Career
Upon clearing the UPSC exam, Sneha Gitte was allocated to the AGMUT cadre and began her career as an IAS officer in 2019. Her professional journey has been marked by significant roles and responsibilities, reflecting her capability to handle complex administrative challenges.
Key Postings and Contributions
- Special Secretary, Home and Personnel (2023)
Before her appointment as Collector, Sneha served as the Special Secretary, Home and Personnel in Goa. During this tenure, she also held the additional charge of Chief Inspector of Factories and Boilers, showcasing her ability to manage diverse portfolios. - Director of Environment and Vigilance, Goa
Sneha was appointed as the Director of Environment and Member Secretary of the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA), roles she continued to hold alongside her primary responsibilities. Her work in environmental governance involved overseeing policies to protect Goa’s coastal ecosystems, a critical task given the state’s tourism-driven economy and ecological sensitivity. - Collector and District Magistrate, North Goa (2023–2025)
In September 2023, Sneha was appointed as the Collector and District Magistrate of North Goa, a prestigious and demanding role. As Collector, she was responsible for the overall administration of the district, including revenue management, law and order, and implementation of government schemes. Her tenure was marked by efforts to streamline administrative processes and address local governance challenges. - Transfer Following Shirgao Temple Stampede (2025)
Sneha’s tenure as North Goa Collector came under scrutiny following a tragic stampede at the Shirgao Temple on May 3, 2025, which resulted in six fatalities. A fact-finding committee report held the district administration, police, and temple committee accountable for lapses. Consequently, Sneha was transferred out of Goa by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs in May 2025, along with other IAS and IPS officers. While this incident was a setback, it reflects the high accountability standards in public service and does not diminish her overall contributions.
Sneha’s professional career is characterized by her ability to take on challenging roles, from environmental policy to district administration. Her work in Goa, particularly in North Goa, has left a lasting impact on local governance and environmental management.
Personal Life
Sneha Gitte is married to Asvin Chandru A, a fellow IAS officer from the 2019 AGMUT cadre, who currently serves as the Collector and District Magistrate of South Goa. The couple’s shared commitment to public service has strengthened their bond, as they support each other in their demanding careers. Asvin, originally from Tamil Nadu, cleared the UPSC exam with an AIR of 327, and their professional synergy is a source of inspiration for many.
While Sneha maintains a low profile regarding her personal life, her partnership with Asvin highlights the importance of mutual support in navigating the challenges of civil services. The couple’s dedication to their respective roles exemplifies their shared vision of serving the nation.
Contributions and Legacy
Sneha Gitte’s contributions extend beyond her administrative roles. As a young IAS officer, she has inspired countless UPSC aspirants, particularly women, to pursue careers in civil services. Her success with a medical background demonstrates that diverse academic paths can lead to excellence in public administration.
Her work in environmental governance in Goa, including her role as Director of Environment, has contributed to sustainable development in a state heavily reliant on tourism. Additionally, her efforts as North Goa Collector focused on improving administrative efficiency and addressing local issues, leaving a positive impact on the region.
Sneha’s association with Vijetha IAS Academy, where she was a student of the Anthropology Classroom Program, has also cemented her legacy in the UPSC coaching ecosystem. Her success is celebrated as a testament to the academy’s commitment to nurturing talent.
Challenges and Resilience
Like many IAS officers, Sneha has faced challenges in her career, including the high-pressure environment of district administration and public scrutiny following incidents like the Shirgao Temple stampede. However, her resilience and ability to adapt to new roles underscore her strength as a leader. The transfer in 2025, while a professional challenge, is part of the dynamic nature of civil services, where officers are frequently reassigned to meet administrative needs.
Sneha’s ability to navigate these challenges while maintaining her commitment to public service is a hallmark of her character. Her journey reflects the importance of perseverance and accountability in public administration.
Conclusion
Dr. Sneha Suryakant Gitte’s journey from a medical student to a distinguished IAS officer is a story of determination, academic excellence, and service to the nation. Her achievements in the UPSC exam, impactful roles in Goa, and inspiring personal life make her a role model for aspiring civil servants. Despite challenges, Sneha’s contributions to governance and environmental management have left a lasting legacy.
As she continues her career, Sneha Gitte remains a beacon of hope for those who aspire to make a difference through public service. Her story reminds us that with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to societal welfare, one can achieve greatness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sneha Gitte, IAS
- Who is Sneha Gitte?
Sneha Gitte is an IAS officer from the 2019 AGMUT cadre, known for securing AIR 331 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination. She is a medical graduate (M.B.B.S.) and has served as the Collector and District Magistrate of North Goa. - What is Sneha Gitte’s educational background?
Sneha holds an M.B.B.S. degree from the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik. She chose Anthropology as her optional subject for the UPSC exam. - What was Sneha Gitte’s UPSC rank and score?
Sneha secured AIR 331 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2019, with a total score of 989 marks (Main Exam: 835, Interview: 154). - What roles has Sneha Gitte held as an IAS officer?
Sneha has served as Special Secretary, Home and Personnel; Director of Environment; Member Secretary of GCZMA; and Collector and District Magistrate of North Goa. - Why was Sneha Gitte transferred in 2025?
Sneha was transferred out of Goa in May 2025 following a tragic stampede at the Shirgao Temple, where the district administration was held accountable for lapses. - Who is Sneha Gitte’s husband?
Sneha is married to Asvin Chandru A, an IAS officer from the 2019 AGMUT cadre, currently serving as the Collector and District Magistrate of South Goa. - What is Sneha Gitte’s optional subject in UPSC?
Sneha chose Anthropology as her optional subject for the UPSC Main Examination. - Where is Sneha Gitte posted now?
As of May 2025, Sneha has been transferred out of Goa, but her current posting is not specified in available records.
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