S. Divyadharshini
S. Divyadharshini is an accomplished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer belonging to the Tamil Nadu cadre, widely recognised for securing the All-India Rank 1 in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination 2010. Her achievement at a young age, coupled with her consistent commitment to public service, has made her an inspiration for civil service aspirants across India.
Early Life and Education
S. Divyadharshini was born and raised in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. She pursued her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws (B.A. LL.B) degree from Dr Ambedkar Government Law College, Chennai. Her educational background in law provided her with a strong foundation in constitutional principles, public administration, and governance—subjects that later supported her in civil service preparation.
Even during her student years, she was known for her discipline and determination. After completing her studies, she briefly worked in the banking sector, gaining practical exposure to institutional systems before deciding to pursue her long-standing aspiration of joining the Indian Administrative Service.
UPSC Journey and Achievement
In 2010, at the age of 24, Divyadharshini achieved the rare distinction of topping the UPSC Civil Services Examination on her second attempt. Her success was a result of strategic preparation, deep understanding of core subjects, and consistent effort.
Her journey was marked by resilience and focus. Having faced initial setbacks in her first attempt, she re-evaluated her approach, refined her study methods, and developed a disciplined routine that eventually led her to success. Her story has often been cited as a model of perseverance and dedication among civil service aspirants.
Career and Key Administrative Roles
Upon joining the IAS (2011 batch, Tamil Nadu cadre), Divyadharshini has served in various key capacities across the state and central administrations. Her roles have encompassed governance in sectors such as rural development, women’s empowerment, finance, and economic affairs.
Some of her notable positions include:
- Chief Executive Officer, Tamil Nadu Rural Transformation Project (TNRTP): Focused on improving rural livelihoods, promoting self-help groups, and encouraging rural entrepreneurship.
 - Managing Director, Tamil Nadu Corporation for Development of Women: Worked towards financial inclusion, skill training, and women-led enterprise promotion.
 - Director (Multilateral Institutions Division), Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Government of India: Involved in coordination with global financial institutions and international development agencies.
 
Her administrative approach reflects a blend of policy innovation and grassroots understanding, ensuring that government initiatives reach and benefit the most vulnerable sections of society.
Vision and Work Philosophy
S. Divyadharshini is known for her people-centric approach to governance. Her vision emphasises inclusive development, empowerment of women, and sustainable rural growth. She advocates for the use of data-driven decision-making and digital technology in governance to improve transparency and efficiency.
Her key principles include:
- The importance of resilience and continuous learning.
 - Ensuring equity and accountability in administration.
 - Balancing policy design at higher levels with effective on-ground implementation.
 
She also highlights the need for empathy in public service, viewing civil administration not merely as a position of authority but as a platform for social change.
Influence and Inspiration
S. Divyadharshini’s journey from a young law graduate to the nation’s top civil services rank-holder is an inspiring example of perseverance and purpose. She has become a role model for students and aspirants, particularly women, demonstrating that determination and discipline can overcome challenges in competitive examinations and beyond.
Her professional career reflects how a civil servant can bridge the gap between policy formulation and grassroots execution, ensuring that governance remains citizen-focused and inclusive.
Present Engagements
As a senior IAS officer, S. Divyadharshini continues to contribute actively to governance and development initiatives both at the state and national levels. Her work focuses on promoting rural transformation, economic empowerment, and institutional capacity building.
Through her leadership and commitment, she exemplifies the transformative power of public service and continues to inspire future generations of administrators.
                            
                                    
                                    
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July 16, 2013 at 1:49 pmSry its nt dhakshayini……… Its s.Divyadarshini