Meet IAS officer who once herded buffaloes; cracked UPSC exam after being inspired by TV serial

The UPSC exam is regarded as one of the toughest in India, with lakhs of aspirants competing every year but only a few achieving success. Among those who cracked the prestigious exam is IAS officer C. Vanmathi, whose journey stands as a beacon of determination and inspiration, especially for women from modest backgrounds.

Born in Sathyamangalam, a small town in Tamil Nadu’s Erode district, Vanmathi grew up in a family that faced financial hardship. Her father worked as a cab driver, struggling to support the household. Despite limited means, her parents placed immense importance on her education. As a child, she not only helped with household chores and grazing buffaloes but also remained a dedicated student.

After completing her 12th standard, relatives urged her parents to get her married. However, Vanmathi refused to bow to societal pressures and pursued higher education, eventually earning a postgraduate degree in computer applications. This decision proved pivotal, as she set her sights on the civil services.

Her inspiration came from two key sources: a lady district collector whose work left a strong impression on her, and a TV serial Ganga Yamuna Saraswathi, whose protagonist was an IAS officer. These influences sparked her ambition to join the services.

The path was not easy. She faced repeated setbacks in the UPSC exam, clearing the interview once but falling short overall. Yet, she persevered. While working as an Assistant Manager at Indian Overseas Bank, she continued her preparation.

Finally, in 2015, her persistence bore fruit when she secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 152. Today, she serves as Joint Commissioner (Enforcement), State Tax, in Mumbai.

Vanmathi’s remarkable journey, from humble beginnings to a senior administrative post, continues to inspire countless aspirants to chase their dreams with resilience and courage.