Mittali Sethi's journey from a successful orthodontist to a respected IAS officer is nothing short of inspirational. Unlike many aspirants who begin their preparation at a young age, Mittali embarked on her UPSC journey a decade into her medical career. She had no initial interest in general knowledge or current affairs, often jokingly described by her husband as having "negative" knowledge in these areas. However, her life took a transformative turn during her medical camps in rural Maharashtra, where she witnessed the stark realities faced by marginalized communities, particularly in tribal regions suffering from poverty and malnutrition.
Early Life and Medical Career
Born and raised in Jalandhar, Punjab, Mittali excelled academically from a young age. She pursued her dental degree (BDS) in Amritsar and later completed her Master’s in Orthodontics in Chennai. After two years of practice as an orthodontist, she felt an unfulfilled desire to make a more significant impact on society. This longing intensified during her visits to Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, where she encountered children lacking basic necessities like food, education, and healthcare.
The Turning Point
While volunteering at a youth camp in Gadchiroli, Mittali's perspective shifted dramatically. She began teaching local children, but it wasn’t enough for her. One day, she stumbled upon someone preparing for the UPSC exam and became inspired by the potential impact she could have as an IAS officer. This moment ignited her ambition to serve at a higher level.
The UPSC Journey
Starting her preparation at 29 while balancing a demanding job proved challenging. Despite failing her first two attempts at the UPSC exam, Mittali's determination never wavered. She dedicated herself to improving her general knowledge by reading newspapers daily - a daunting task for someone who hadn’t engaged with current affairs for years. Her supportive husband and close friends played crucial roles during this period, encouraging her through the ups and downs.
In 2017, after three attempts filled with hard work and perseverance, Mittali achieved an All India Rank of 56 in the UPSC exam. Her success was not just a personal victory but also a testament to her resilience against societal skepticism regarding her decision to pursue civil services as a married woman with an established career.
Her impact as an IAS Officer
Now serving as the head of the Zilla Parishad in Chandrapur, Maharashtra, Mittali has embraced her role as "the people's officer." She has initiated several impactful programs, including “Padhai Bhi, Safai Bhi”, aimed at improving education and sanitation in rural areas. In just six months, she has opened 150 rural libraries and established multiple washrooms across the region. Mittali’s commitment extends beyond administrative duties; she has also made headlines for donating breast milk to support newborns in need while serving as the Director at Vanamati in Nagpur. Her actions not only reflect her dedication to public service but also inspire others to contribute positively to society.
Mittali Sethi's story is one of resilience, transformation, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. From being an orthodontist with little interest in current affairs to becoming an influential IAS officer, she exemplifies how passion and perseverance can lead to profound change. Her journey serves as an inspiration for many aspiring civil servants who may feel daunted by their circumstances or backgrounds.
As she continues to impact lives positively through her work, Mittali remains a beacon of hope for those seeking to create meaningful change in society.
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