From a Farmer's Daughter to an IAS Officer: Manisha Awhale’s Inspiring Journey of Perseverance and Determination

Against all odds, Manisha Awhale achieved her father’s dream, rising from rural Maharashtra to secure a top rank in the UPSC CSE 2018.

“When I was born, my father said, ‘My daughter will become a collector,’” recalled Manisha Awhale in a heartfelt interview with Indian Masterminds. Her journey from a small farming family in Maharashtra to becoming a distinguished IAS officer is a testament to the power of determination and family support.

Growing up in a community where the idea of educating daughters was often met with criticism, Manisha encountered more than her share of resistance. People would taunt her family, warning, "If you educate your daughter too much, she’ll run away." Despite this, her father remained her unwavering pillar, insisting that Manisha pursue her education and career goals.

"I come from a society where girls aren’t given the freedom to study, go out, or build careers," she shared. "They’re expected to marry and settle down. Yet, my father always encouraged me to move forward."

Her journey wasn’t easy. Right after she completed her preliminary exams, her father’s health declined severely, and soon after, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. The dual crises took an emotional toll, yet Manisha remained steadfast. Her father’s unwavering faith in her abilities kept her going.

In her first attempt, she cleared the UPSC exams and secured a position with the Indian Railway Accounts Service. However, her father, even in his illness, urged her not to settle. "Go back, prepare again, become an IAS officer," he encouraged her, confident she could achieve more.

Taking his words to heart, Manisha returned to Delhi to give the exam one more try. Her perseverance paid off in 2018 when she cracked the UPSC CSE with an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 33. With this, Manisha fulfilled both her father’s dream and her own, rising above societal limitations and personal hardships to become an inspiration for countless others.

Manisha Awhale’s journey is a story of resilience, family support, and a profound belief in one’s potential, shining a light on the power of a father’s dream and a daughter’s courage.