The Times of India

She grazed buffaloes after school; the cab driver's daughter cracked UPSC to become an IAS officer

Vanmathi, raised in rural Tamil Nadu, overcame poverty, household responsibilities and social pressure to pursue education instead of early marriage. Inspired by a woman District Collector, she prepared for the UPSC Civil Services Examination while working in banking, facing multiple setbacks before securing All India Rank 152 in 2015. She joined the IAS and has served across Maharashtra, focusing on tribal welfare, health, water conservation and digital governance initiatives as District Collector of Wardha. Her journey reflects perseverance and purpose.