Meet Ankita Sharma IPS: From UPSC Struggles to Naxal Zone Hero

Pillar	Description	Implementation
Justice	Fair and impartial law enforcement	Transparent investigations, no discrimination
Compassion	Understanding human suffering	Community-oriented policing approach
Courage	Fearless action against crime	Bold anti-Naxal operations leadership
Integrity	Unwavering ethical standards	Zero-tolerance for corruption

Frequently Searched Information

Query	Answer
Which state does she belong to?	Chhattisgarh
Current posting location	Chhattisgarh (Various postings within state)
Husband’s name	Vivekanand Shukla
Age	34 years (born 25 June 1990)
UPSC rank	AIR 203 in 2018
Service	Indian Police Service (IPS)
Notable for	Service in Naxal-affected areas and youth mentorship

DETAILED BIOGRAPHY SECTION

Early Life: Foundation of a Hero

Birth and Childhood (1990-2000)

Ankita Sharma IPS was born on June 25, 1990, in Durg, Chhattisgarh, to a progressive middle-class family. Durg, an industrial city known for its steel plants and coal mines, provided the backdrop for her formative years. Unlike many privileged backgrounds, Ankita’s childhood was grounded in the values of hard work, social responsibility, and service to others.

Her father, Rakesh Sharma, a successful businessman, and her mother, Savita Sharma, a dedicated homemaker, created an environment that encouraged curiosity, learning, and moral development. As the eldest of three daughters, young Ankita learned the importance of responsibility and setting examples for her younger siblings. The household discussions often centered on current affairs, justice, and the role of law enforcement in society.

Growing up in Durg exposed her to both urban development and rural challenges. She witnessed the disparity between privilege and poverty, witnessing how law enforcement could either protect or exploit the vulnerable. These observations planted the seeds of her determination to become a police officer committed to justice for all.

School Years: Academic Excellence (2000-2007)

 

 

Foundation Education:

Ankita’s early education was at a local government school in Durg, where she quickly established herself as an exceptional student. Her teachers noted her intelligence, discipline, and natural leadership qualities. By the 6th standard, she had already expressed her desire to serve the nation, particularly as a police officer.

Secondary Education at St. Xavier:

For her 10th standard, Ankita moved to St. Xavier Senior Secondary School in Durg, one of the city’s most respected educational institutions. Here, she truly excelled academically:

• 10th Standard Result: 92% – Among the top performers in her school
• Academic Subjects: Strong foundation in Mathematics, Science, and English
• Extracurricular Activities: Debate competitions, school newspaper, science club
• Teachers’ Recognition: Awarded for consistent excellence and leadership

Her 10th standard performance set the tone for her high school years. In 12th standard, maintaining her exceptional standard:

• 12th Standard Result: 90% – Consistent excellence
• Higher Studies Preparation: Strong foundational knowledge in Science and Mathematics
• College Entrance Preparation: Secured admission in premier engineering colleges

The discipline and time management she learned during school years would prove crucial in her later UPSC preparation journey.

Engineering Days: Technical Foundation (2007-2011)

National Institute of Technology (NIT) Bhilai:

After scoring 90% in her 12th standard, Ankita earned admission to NIT Bhilai, one of India’s most prestigious engineering colleges, to pursue B.Tech in Computer Science. This period was crucial in her intellectual development:

Academic Excellence:

• Completed B.Tech CSE with distinction
• Strong GPA and consistent performance in all semesters
• Excelled particularly in subjects related to systems and management
• Earned merit certificate for overall performance

Beyond Academics:

• Active member of student government
• Participated in debates and public speaking competitions
• Engaged in social service initiatives within campus
• Mentored junior students in technical subjects
• Developed leadership and communication skills

Engineering Internships:

• Secured internships in reputable IT companies
• Gained practical experience in software development
• Understood professional work environment and discipline
• Made networking connections that helped career transitions later

Corporate Life & UPSC Dream (2011-2018)

IT Sector Entry (2011-2015):

After completing her B.Tech, Ankita joined a reputable IT company in India. This phase was significant for multiple reasons:

• Professional Experience: Gained understanding of corporate operations and management
• Financial Independence: Earned sufficient income to support UPSC preparation
• Time Management: Learned to balance work and study commitments
• Network Building: Connected with professionals and aspirants from diverse backgrounds

While working in the IT sector, Ankita never abandoned her original dream of becoming an IPS officer. She began preliminary reading on law, constitutional studies, and current affairs.

MBA Pursuit (2013-2015):

Recognizing the need for management education before attempting UPSC, Ankita pursued an MBA from Chhattisgarh Swami Vivekananda Technical University (CSVTU) in Bhilai while continuing her IT job:

Academic Achievement:

• Completed MBA program with distinction
• Gold Medal: Highest marks in her MBA batch
• Specialized in Public Administration and Governance
• Developed understanding of government systems and policy

Impact on Later Career:

• MBA background helped in understanding administrative challenges
• Provided theoretical knowledge for public administration optional in UPSC
• Developed management skills useful in police administration
• Enhanced credibility and knowledge base for civil service role

UPSC Preparation Journey: From Struggles to Success (2012-2018)

First Attempt – The Learning Phase (2012-2013):

At age 22, Ankita took her first UPSC Civil Services Examination attempt. Despite solid preparation:

• Result: Failed in UPSC Mains examination
• Score Range: Not competitive enough for selection
• Learning: Exam required different approach than competitive examinations
• Realization: Needed to strengthen general studies and current affairs

This failure was disheartening but not devastating. She analyzed her performance, identified weaknesses, and planned a revised strategy. The critical insight was understanding that UPSC wasn’t just about academic knowledge but about comprehensive understanding of national and international issues.

Second Attempt – The Resilience Test (2014-2015):

Two years after her first attempt, Ankita tried again in 2014:

• Result: Could not clear UPSC Prelims (the first hurdle)
• Reason: Although she had studied extensively, the prelims strategy needed refinement
• Emotional Impact: Two failures tested her determination and commitment
• Decision: Relocated to Delhi for focused UPSC coaching

The Delhi decision was significant. She joined a UPSC coaching center, attended classes, and focused entirely on exam preparation. However, after six months, she realized:

• Coaching Limitations: Generic coaching couldn’t address her specific needs
• Self-Learning: She needed personalized study methods
• Financial Constraints: Coaching expenses were significant
• Better Way: Independent study with targeted resources might work better

Return to Independent Study (2015-2018):

The most crucial phase of her preparation began when she returned to Chhattisgarh and decided to prepare independently:

Study Strategy:

• Newspaper Reading: Daily reading of The Hindu and Indian Express
• Magazine Reading: Civil Services focused magazines and journals
• Book Reading: Conceptual understanding through standard UPSC books
• Answer Writing Practice: Regular practice essays and answers
• Mock Tests: Consistent evaluation through mock examinations
• Current Affairs: Systematic study of recent developments
• Social Interaction: Discussions with aspirants and professionals

Optional Subject Selection:

• Chose Public Administration as optional
• Aligned with her future career needs and interest
• Studied standard books and previous question papers
• Scored well in optional through focused preparation

Mental Preparation:

• Dealt with social pressure about repeated failures
• Maintained confidence in her preparation approach
• Supported by family, particularly her parents
• Drew inspiration from success stories of persistent aspirants

Third Attempt – Success (2018):

After two failures and years of preparation, Ankita’s persistence paid off:

UPSC CSE 2018 Results:

• Prelims: Cleared with excellent score
• Mains: Performed exceptionally well across papers
• Interview: Demonstrated outstanding communication and vision
• Final Result: All India Rank 203
• Optional Subject: Strong performance in Public Administration
• Merit: Clear selection for Indian Police Service (IPS)

The joy of success cannot be overstated. She had proven that persistence, right strategy, and unwavering dedication could overcome any obstacle. More importantly, her journey demonstrated that:

1. Multiple attempts are not failures: They are steps toward success
2. Expensive coaching is optional: Self-study with discipline works
3. Geographic location is not a barrier: Durg to Delhi to success was possible
4. Women can excel in challenging fields: IPS was no longer a male domain

Police Academy Training & Early Career (2018-2019)

Selection to IPS:

Upon clearing the UPSC, Ankita was allocated to the Chhattisgarh cadre, meaning she would serve in her home state. This was significant as:

• Few officers get their home cadre preference
• Opportunity to serve her people directly
• Familiar with local culture, language, and challenges

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA), Hyderabad:

From June 2018 to June 2019, Ankita underwent intensive probationary officer training:

Training Components:

1. Police Administration & Law
   • Indian Police Act
   • Criminal Procedure Code
   • Constitution and civil rights
   • Police ethics and values
2. Operational Training
   • Firearms training and proficiency
   • Physical fitness and martial arts
   • Tactical operations and strategies
   • Emergency response procedures
3. Investigative Skills
   • Criminal investigation methods
   • Evidence handling and collection
   • Case file management
   • Witness interaction and interviewing
4. Specialized Training
   • Anti-Naxal operations tactics
   • Cybercrime investigation
   • Community policing approaches
   • Crisis management and negotiation

Academy Performance:

• Consistently ranked among top performers
• Commendation for leadership qualities
• Excellent marks in specialized anti-Naxal training
• Certificate for outstanding performance in academy

Key Career Milestones: Field Posting & Operations (2019-Present)

Milestone 1: Anti-Naxal Specialist (2019-2020)

Posting: Bastar District, Chhattisgarh

Bastar district is one of India’s most challenging law enforcement areas, plagued by Naxalite insurgency. Ankita’s posting here was significant:

Operational Activities:

• Led 15+ successful anti-Naxal search operations
• Coordinated intelligence gathering and analysis
• Conducted awareness programs in Naxal-affected villages
• Supervised junior officers in field operations
• Managed inter-agency coordination (CRPF, military)

Personal Bravery Incidents:

• Conducted operations in dangerous jungle terrain
• Demonstrated fearless decision-making under pressure
• Earned trust of field personnel
• Received local support through community engagement

Achievements:

• Improved security in assigned areas
• Zero casualties among civilians in her operations
• Built credible intelligence network
• Trained other officers in field tactics

Media Recognition:

• Featured in national media for bravery
• Compared favorably with iconic female police officers
• Gained reputation as “Lady Singham”

Milestone 2: Crime Prevention & District-Level Responsibility (2020-2021)

Posting: Raipur District, Chhattisgarh (Additional Superintendent of Police)

Transition from anti-Naxal operations to broader law and order management:

Expanded Responsibilities:

• Overseeing law and order across district
• Crime prevention and investigation strategies
• Officer recruitment, training, and management
• Community liaison and public relations
• Crime statistics analysis and reduction targets

Notable Initiatives:

• Implemented community policing programs
• Established women’s safety awareness campaigns
• Created youth engagement initiatives
• Promoted technology-driven policing

Results:

• 25% reduction in overall crime rate
• Improved clearance rate for investigations
• Enhanced community satisfaction with police
• Received district-level commendations

Milestone 3: Recognition & Leadership (2021-2022)

Posting: Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), Azad Chowk, Raipur

February 2021: Indra Bhushan Award The most significant recognition of her career came in February 2021 when the Director General of Police (DGP) of Chhattisgarh presented her with the Indra Bhushan Award for:

• Outstanding contributions to law enforcement
• Exceptional bravery in anti-Naxal operations
• Community engagement and public service
• Leadership and professional excellence

This award was watershed moment, proving that her dedication and courage were recognized at the highest levels.

Celebrity Recognition: Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon publicly acknowledged Ankita’s bravery and fearlessness on social media, bringing national attention to her work.

Milestone 4: Administrative Leadership (2022-Present)

Current Posting: Superintendent of Police, Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai Districts

Responsibilities:

• Heads police operations across multiple districts
• Administrative and financial management
• Community engagement and grievance redressal
• District-level strategy and planning
• Officer supervision and development

Ongoing Initiatives:

• Expanding community policing network
• Technology integration in law enforcement
• Training programs for junior officers
• Women’s safety focus areas
• Crime prevention through community participation

Notable Achievements & Landmark Contributions

1. Anti-Naxal Operations Success Successfully coordinated multiple operations in one of India’s most sensitive security zones, demonstrating both tactical excellence and humane approach to law enforcement.

2. Community Policing Innovation Pioneered community-oriented policing in Chhattisgarh, proving that police can be partners with communities rather than external enforcers.

3. Women’s Safety Initiatives Launched multiple women’s safety awareness programs and self-defense training initiatives, particularly in rural areas.

4. Youth Engagement Programs Created mentorship and engagement programs for youth, particularly in Naxal-affected areas, providing alternative opportunities.

5. Crime Prevention Strategy Implemented data-driven crime prevention strategies resulting in measurable reductions in criminal activity.

6. Officer Development Actively mentored junior officers, particularly female police personnel, fostering inclusive and progressive police culture.

Conclusion: 

Ankita Sharma IPS’s legacy is one of breaking barriers for women in policing. Her vision: A Naxal-free Chhattisgarh through education and justice. As Ankita Sharma IPS continues her service, she inspires generations to serve with heart and valor.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Who is Ankita Sharma IPS?

Ankita Sharma IPS is an Indian Police Service officer from the Chhattisgarh cadre. She cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2018 and is known for her leadership, discipline, and women empowerment initiatives.

2. What is the UPSC batch of Ankita Sharma IPS?

Ankita Sharma IPS belongs to the 2018 batch of the Indian Police Service (IPS).

3. What was Ankita Sharma IPS’s UPSC rank?

Ankita Sharma IPS secured a notable All India Rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2018. (Exact rank details vary across public sources.)

4. What is the current posting of Ankita Sharma IPS?

As of the latest available updates, Ankita Sharma IPS is serving in a senior policing role in Chhattisgarh, focusing on law enforcement, women safety, and crime prevention.

5. Where is Ankita Sharma IPS from?

Ankita Sharma IPS is originally from Durg district in Chhattisgarh, India.

6. What is the educational qualification of Ankita Sharma IPS?

Ankita Sharma IPS completed her graduation in engineering (reportedly in CS/IT) before preparing for the UPSC examination.

7. Is Ankita Sharma IPS married?

Yes, Ankita Sharma IPS is married. However, she keeps her personal life private.

8. What is the age of Ankita Sharma IPS?

Ankita Sharma IPS was born around 1990. As of 2026, her approximate age is 35–36 years.

9. What is the salary of Ankita Sharma IPS?

As per the 7th Pay Commission, the approximate monthly salary of Ankita Sharma IPS ranges between ₹80,000 to ₹1,20,000, depending on posting and allowances.

10. Which cadre does Ankita Sharma IPS belong to?

Ankita Sharma IPS belongs to the Chhattisgarh cadre.

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