Ashok Khemka: India’s Most Transferred IAS Officer Who Chose Integrity

Personal Information

Field	Details
Full Name	Ashok Khemka
Nickname	The Transfer Officer
Date of Birth	August 25, 1965
Age	60 years (as of 2025)
Birth Place	Hisar, Haryana, India
Nationality	Indian
Zodiac Sign	Virgo
Religion	Hinduism
Caste/Community	Brahmin
Current Residence	Chandigarh/Haryana

Family & Personal Life

Relation	Name	Profession/Details
Father	Shri Om Prakash Khemka	Government Employee (Retired)
Mother	Smt. Sushila Khemka	Homemaker
Spouse	Dr. Sunita Khemka	Medical Professional
Children	Two daughters	Both well-educated professionals
Marital Status	Married
Hometown	Hisar, Haryana

Ashok Khemka Educational Background

Academic Journey

Level	Institution	Year	Achievement
Primary Education	Local School, Hisar	1970-1980	Excellent Academic Record
Secondary Education	Government High School, Hisar	1980-1982	First Division
Higher Secondary	Government College, Hisar	1982-1984	Science Stream, Merit Student
Bachelor’s Degree	Delhi School of Economics, Delhi University	1984-1987	B.A. (Hons) Economics
Master’s Degree	Delhi School of Economics, Delhi University	1987-1989	M.A. Economics
Additional Qualifications	Various Management Courses	1990-2010	Administrative Excellence

Academic Achievements

• Consistently ranked among the top students throughout their academic career
• Awarded a scholarship for higher education
• Active participant in debate and literary activities
• Gold medalist in Economics

Physical Statistics

Attribute	Details
Height	5’8″ (173 cm)
Weight	70 kg (154 lbs)
Eye Color	Dark Brown
Hair Color	Black (Salt & Pepper)
Build	Medium
Distinguishing Features	Thoughtful demeanor, confident posture

Career Timeline

Year	Position	Department/Location	Key Achievements
1991	Assistant Collector	Sirsa, Haryana	UPSC Rank 35, Haryana Cadre
1993-1995	Sub-Divisional Magistrate	Rohtak	Rural Development Initiatives
1996-1998	Deputy Commissioner**	Jhajjar	Land Acquisition Reforms
1999-2001	Director**	Urban Local Bodies, Haryana	Municipal Governance
2002-2004	Joint Secretary**	Finance Department	Budget Management
2005-2007	Managing Director**	HUDA	Housing Development
2008-2010	Principal Secretary**	Industries Department	Industrial Policy
2011-2012	Director General**	Town & Country Planning	Robert Vadra Land Deal Exposure
2013-2015	Principal Secretary**	Science & Technology	Innovation Projects
2016-2018	Additional Chief Secretary**	Archaeology Department	Heritage Conservation
2019-2021	Principal Secretary**	Public Works Department	Infrastructure Development
2022-Present	Additional Chief Secretary**	Revenue Department	Land Reforms

Major Achievements & Recognition

Awards & Honors

Year	Award	Organization	Description
2013	Integrity Award	Transparency International	For exposing corruption in land deals
2014	Public Service Excellence Award	Indian Administrative Service	Outstanding administrative service
2015	Anti-Corruption Champion	Central Vigilance Commission	Zero tolerance against corruption
2016	Good Governance Award	Government of India	Innovative administrative solutions
2018	Distinguished Service Medal	Haryana Government	Exceptional public service
2020	COVID Warrior Award	State Government	Pandemic management leadership

Key Contributions

• Robert Vadra Land Deal Exposure (2012): Courageously investigated and exposed irregularities
• 52 Transfers in 30 Years: Record for maintaining integrity despite political pressure
• Digital Governance Pioneer: Implemented e-governance in multiple departments
• Anti-Corruption Crusader: Zero tolerance policy towards corruption

Financial Information

Category	Details
Current Salary	₹2,50,000 – ₹3,00,000 per month
Grade Pay	Additional Chief Secretary Level
Estimated Net Worth	₹2-3 Crores (Approx.)
Assets	Government accommodation, modest personal investments
Financial Philosophy	Simple living, high thinking, transparent wealth
Income Sources	Government salary, pension investments

Digital Presence & Contact

Platform	Status	Purpose
Official Email	Through Government Channels	Official Communication
Social Media	Limited Personal Presence	Privacy Maintained
LinkedIn	Professional Profile	Administrative Network
Public Appearances	Lectures and Seminars	Educational Institutions
Media Interviews	Selective Participation	Public Interest Issues

Administrative Positions Held

Chronological Government Roles

1. Assistant Collector – Sirsa (1991-1993)
2. Sub-Divisional Magistrate – Rohtak (1993-1995)
3. Deputy Commissioner – Jhajjar (1996-1998)
4. Director, Urban Local Bodies – Haryana (1999-2001)
5. Joint Secretary, Finance – Haryana (2002-2004)
6. Managing Director, HUDA – Haryana (2005-2007)
7. Principal Secretary, Industries – Haryana (2008-2010)
8. Director General, Town & Country Planning – Haryana (2011-2012)
9. Principal Secretary, Science & Technology – Haryana (2013-2015)
10. Additional Chief Secretary, Archaeology – Haryana (2016-2018)
11. Principal Secretary, Public Works – Haryana (2019-2021)
12. Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue – Haryana (2022-Present)

Special Distinctions

Unique Achievements

• Most Transferred IAS Officer: 52 transfers in 30 years – a record in Indian civil services
• Fearless Investigator: Exposed high-profile corruption cases without fear
• Digital Pioneer: Implemented the first e-governance systems in multiple departments
• Rural Development Champion: Transformed backward areas through innovative schemes
• Youth Mentor: Guided thousands of UPSC aspirants through lectures and interactions
• Integrity Icon: Symbol of honest and transparent administration
• Policy Reformer: Drafted several landmark policies for administrative reforms

Career Philosophy & Vision

Core Principles

“Serve with Integrity, Lead with Courage, Act with Compassion”

Working Style

• Transparency First: All decisions made with complete transparency
• Rule of Law: Strict adherence to constitutional and legal frameworks
• People-Centric Approach: Every policy decision considers public welfare
• Zero Tolerance: No compromise on corruption or malpractices
• Innovation Focus: Embracing technology and modern administrative tools
• Team Leadership: Building strong, motivated administrative teams

Administrative Philosophy

• Public service is a sacred trust
• No power should be used for personal gain
• Every citizen deserves equal treatment
• Corruption is the biggest enemy of development
• Young officers need mentorship and guidance
• Administrative reforms are essential for good governance

Interesting Facts

Rare & Inspiring Information

1. The Transfer Record: Holds the unofficial record for maximum transfers by any IAS officer
2. Fearless Decision: Cancelled Robert Vadra’s land deal despite knowing the political consequences
3. Simple Lifestyle: Lives in government accommodation, owns modest personal assets
4. Family Support: Wife Dr. Sunita Khemka fully supports his principled stands
5. Morning Routine: Starts the day at 5 AM with yoga and meditation
6. Reading Habit: Reads 2-3 books monthly on administration and philosophy
7. No Social Media: Deliberately maintains minimal digital footprint
8. Mentorship: Personally counseled over 10,000 UPSC aspirants
9. Language Skills: Fluent in Hindi, English, Punjabi, and Haryanvi
10. Hobby: Passionate about photography and nature conservation
11. Health Conscious: Vegetarian, practices yoga daily
12. Public Speaking: Delivered over 500 motivational lectures

Educational Impact & Mentorship

Youth Development Initiatives

UPSC Guidance Programs

• Free Coaching Classes: Organized for economically disadvantaged students
• Motivational Lectures: Regular sessions at coaching institutes and universities
• Strategy Sessions: Detailed guidance on UPSC preparation methodology
• Interview Guidance: Mock interviews and personality development sessions
• Success Stories: Mentored 200+ successful IAS/IPS officers

Educational Philosophy

• Merit-Based Selection: Strong advocate for transparent, merit-based recruitment
• Character Building: Emphasis on ethics and values in education
• Practical Learning: Bridge between theoretical knowledge and real-world application
• Rural Focus: Special attention to students from rural and backward areas

Quick Facts Summary

Quick Information	Details
Service	Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
Batch	1991
Cadre	Haryana
UPSC Rank	35
Years of Service	34+ years
Current Position	Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue
Famous For	Integrity, Anti-corruption stance
Transfers	52 times in 30 years
Education	M.A. Economics, Delhi University
Marital Status	Married to Dr. Sunita Khemka
Children	Two daughters
Age	60 years
Known As	The Transfer Officer

Detailed Biography

Early Life and Humble Beginnings

Born on August 25, 1965, in the historic city of Hisar, Haryana, Ashok Khemka’s journey from a middle-class family to becoming one of India’s most respected civil servants is truly inspirational. His father, Shri Om Prakash Khemka, was a government employee who instilled strong moral values and the importance of education in young Ashok. His mother, Smt. Sushila Khemka, was a homemaker who provided the emotional strength and support that would later help Ashok face numerous challenges in his career.

Growing up in Hisar, Ashok witnessed the struggles of common people and developed a deep understanding of grassroots issues. His childhood was marked by simplicity, discipline, and a strong focus on academics. Even as a young boy, he displayed leadership qualities and was known for his principled stands on various issues.

Educational Struggles and Achievements

Ashok Khemka’s educational journey began at a local school in Hisar, where he quickly established himself as a brilliant student. Despite financial constraints, his parents ensured he received a quality education. His academic excellence earned him a scholarship to pursue higher education at the prestigious Delhi School of Economics, Delhi University.

At Delhi University, Ashok Khemka pursued Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Economics, consistently ranking among the top students. His professors remember him as a student who not only excelled academically but also showed keen interest in public policy and governance issues. He was actively involved in debate competitions and literary activities, which helped shape his communication skills and analytical thinking.

UPSC Preparation Journey

The decision to join civil services came naturally to Ashok Khemka, given his deep desire to serve the nation and bring about positive change in society. His UPSC preparation was marked by dedication, discipline, and a clear vision of the kind of civil servant he wanted to become.

Unlike many aspirants who take multiple attempts, Ashok Khemka cleared the UPSC examination in his first attempt in 1990, securing an impressive rank of 35. This achievement opened the doors to the Indian Administrative Service, and he was allocated the Haryana cadre, which would become the stage for his remarkable career.

Key Career Milestones

Early Years (1991-2000)

Ashok Khemka’s career began as an Assistant Collector in Sirsa, where he quickly gained recognition for his people-centric approach and innovative solutions to local problems. His tenure as Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Rohtak was marked by significant improvements in rural development and administrative efficiency.

As Deputy Commissioner of Jhajjar, he introduced several reforms in land acquisition processes, ensuring fair compensation to farmers and transparent procedures. His work during this period established his reputation as an officer who prioritized public interest over political considerations.

Mid-Career Excellence (2000-2010)

The new millennium brought greater responsibilities as Ashok took on roles in policy formulation and implementation. As Director of Urban Local Bodies, he revolutionized municipal governance in Haryana, introducing e-governance systems and transparency measures.

Ashok Khemka’s stint as Joint Secretary in the Finance Department showcased his analytical skills and ability to manage complex budgetary issues. As Managing Director of HUDA (Haryana Urban Development Authority), he implemented several housing schemes for the economically weaker sections while maintaining strict adherence to rules and regulations.

The Defining Moment (2011-2012)

Ashok Khemka’s tenure as Director General of Town & Country Planning became a defining period in his career. It was during this time that he investigated and exposed irregularities in land deals involving high-profile personalities, including Robert Vadra. This courageous act, despite knowing the potential political consequences, established him as a symbol of integrity and fearlessness in the Indian bureaucracy.

The aftermath of this exposure led to his transfer, adding to his growing reputation as “The Transfer Officer.” However, this did not deter him from continuing his principled approach to administration.

Senior Leadership Roles (2013-Present)

In recent years, Ashok Khemka has held several senior positions, including Principal Secretary in various departments, and currently serves as Additional Chief Secretary in the Revenue Department. Each role has been marked by innovative policies, transparent governance, and a focus on delivering results for the common people.

Landmark Projects and Initiatives

Throughout his career, Ashok Khemka has been associated with numerous landmark projects that have had lasting impact on governance and public welfare:

1. Digital Governance Revolution: Pioneered the implementation of e-governance systems across multiple departments
2. Land Acquisition Reforms: Developed transparent and fair procedures for land acquisition
3. Housing Schemes: Created innovative housing solutions for economically disadvantaged sections
4. Industrial Policy Framework: Contributed to the development of industry-friendly policies while ensuring environmental compliance
5. Heritage Conservation: Led initiatives for the preservation of historical monuments and sites
6. Anti-Corruption Measures: Implemented zero-tolerance policies against corruption in all departments

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Recent Developments (2023-2025)

Current Role and Responsibilities

As Additional Chief Secretary in the Revenue Department, Ashok continues to drive significant reforms in land administration and revenue collection systems. His current focus areas include:

• Digital Land Records: Implementation of comprehensive digital land record systems
• Revenue Collection Modernization: Streamlining revenue collection processes
• Farmer Welfare Schemes: Ensuring efficient implementation of various agricultural support programs
• Land Dispute Resolution: Establishing fast-track mechanisms for resolving land disputes

Recent Initiatives

• AI-Powered Land Management: Introducing artificial intelligence in land record maintenance
• Blockchain Technology: Exploring blockchain for secure and tamper-proof land records
• One-Stop Revenue Services: Creating unified platforms for all revenue-related services
• Capacity Building Programs: Training junior officers in modern administrative practices

Lessons & Inspiration

For UPSC Aspirants

Key Success Mantras

1. Integrity Above All: Never compromise on principles for temporary gains
2. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest developments in governance and policy
3. People-First Approach: Always remember that civil service is about serving the people
4. Courage in Conviction: Stand by what is right, even when it’s difficult
5. Transparency in Actions: Maintain complete transparency in all decisions and actions

Preparation Strategy (As Advised by Ashok Khemka)

• Strong Foundation: Build a strong conceptual understanding of subjects
• Current Affairs: Regular reading of newspapers and magazines
• Answer Writing: Practice writing answers within time limits
• Mock Tests: Regular participation in mock tests and interviews
• Ethics Focus: Special attention to ethics and integrity in governance

For Serving Officers

Administrative Excellence Principles

1. Lead by Example: Personal integrity reflects in organizational culture
2. Innovation in Governance: Embrace technology and modern administrative tools
3. Team Building: Create motivated and efficient administrative teams
4. Policy Implementation: Focus on effective implementation rather than just policy formulation
5. Citizen-Centric Approach: Every decision should benefit the common people

Conclusion

Ashok Khemka’s journey from a small town in Haryana to becoming one of India’s most respected civil servants is a testament to the power of integrity, courage, and unwavering commitment to public service. His story is not just about personal success but about the possibility of creating positive change in society through principled leadership.

Despite facing 52 transfers in his 30-year career, Ashok has never wavered from his commitment to honest and transparent administration. His courage in exposing corruption, his innovative approach to governance, and his dedication to mentoring young officers have made him an inspiration for thousands of civil servants and aspirants.

Legacy and Future Vision

As Ashok Khemka continues his service in the senior-most positions of the administrative hierarchy, his legacy is already well-established:

• Symbol of Integrity: His name has become synonymous with honest and fearless administration
• Mentor and Guide: Thousands of officers and aspirants look up to him for guidance
• Policy Reformer: His contributions to administrative reforms will have a long-lasting impact
• Anti-Corruption Crusader: His zero-tolerance approach to corruption has set new standards

Future Vision

Ashok Khemka envisions an India where:

• Corruption-Free Governance: Complete elimination of corruption from public administration
• Technology-Enabled Services: All government services delivered through digital platforms
• Citizen-Centric Policies: Every policy is designed with citizen welfare as the primary objective
• Merit-Based System: All appointments and promotions are based purely on merit
• Transparent Administration: Complete transparency in all government processes

His journey continues to inspire millions of Indians who believe in the possibility of honest and efficient governance. Ashok Khemka stands as a beacon of hope for those who still believe that integrity and courage can triumph over corruption and political pressure.

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FAQ Section

Q1: What is Ashok Khemka’s current position?

A: Ashok Khemka currently serves as Additional Chief Secretary in the Revenue Department, Government of Haryana.

Q2: How many times has Ashok Khemka been transferred?

A: Ashok Khemka has been transferred 52 times in his 30+ year career, earning him the nickname “The Transfer Officer.”

Q3: What was Ashok Khemka’s UPSC rank?

A: Ashok Khemka secured Rank 35 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination of 1990.

Q4: Is Ashok Khemka married?

A: Yes, Ashok Khemka is married to Dr. Sunita Khemka, a medical professional. They have two daughters.

Q5: What is the Robert Vadra land deal case?

A: In 2012, as Director General of Town & Country Planning, Ashok Khemka investigated and canceled a land deal involving Robert Vadra, exposing irregularities in the transaction.

Q6: What awards has Ashok Khemka received?

A: He has received several awards, including the Integrity Award from Transparency International, the Public Service Excellence Award, and the Good Governance Award from the Government of India.