Who is Amit Kataria? A look at India's richest IAS officer's education and career path

Amit Kataria , a name that has recently become synonymous with both wealth and service, is one of the most notable bureaucrats in India. As the richest IAS officer in the country, Kataria has managed to accumulate a net worth of approximately Rs 8.90 crore, as reported by several media outlets. However, what truly sets him apart is not just his financial success, but his unwavering commitment to public service, a quality that defines his career in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).

Kataria's story is an inspiring one, from his humble beginnings in Gurugram to his rise in the ranks of the IAS. Despite his substantial wealth, he has remained dedicated to his role as a civil servant, a rare balance of personal prosperity and public duty. His professional journey and personal choices have captivated the public's imagination, making him a figure of both respect and intrigue.

Who is Amit Kataria?
Amit Kataria is a senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 2004 batch of the Chhattisgarh cadre. Born and raised in Gurugram, Haryana, he completed his schooling at Delhi Public School, RK Puram, before moving on to pursue a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. His educational background, combined with his early exposure to the values of discipline and service, laid the foundation for his future in the IAS.

Kataria first rose to prominence when he secured the 18th rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2003. This achievement marked the beginning of his illustrious career. He served in various important administrative roles, including as District Collector and later as Joint Secretary in the Department of Rural Development. His leadership and vision have earned him widespread admiration within the bureaucracy.

Academic Excellence and Motivation to Join the Civil Services
Kataria's academic background is one of the cornerstones of his success. He completed his schooling at Delhi Public School, RK Puram, one of the most prestigious schools in Delhi, which laid a strong foundation for his academic journey. Later, at IIT Delhi, he pursued Electrical Engineering, a time that played a crucial role in shaping his analytical and problem-solving abilities. It was during his time at IIT that Kataria realised his passion for public service. According to several media reports, his decision to join the IAS was influenced by a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of ordinary people and contribute to nation-building. His father, a government school teacher, is said to have greatly influenced Kataria’s values, inspiring him to pursue a career in civil services.

A Bold Decision: Drawing a Salary of Just Rs 1
One of the most unique aspects of Kataria’s career is his decision to take a salary of just Rs 1 during a significant phase of his service. This symbolic act was a statement of his commitment to public service over personal financial gain. The decision to draw a token salary garnered media attention and became a defining moment in his career. It highlighted Kataria's belief that his role in the IAS was about serving the nation, not accumulating wealth. His choice has since been regarded as an example of selflessness and dedication to the values of the civil services.

How Amit Kataria Built His Wealth
While his salary as an IAS officer remains modest, Kataria's wealth has come from his family’s real estate business. His family has successfully invested in property in the Delhi NCR region, and these holdings have contributed significantly to his net worth, which is estimated to be around Rs 8.90 crore. This has made him one of the wealthiest IAS officers in India. His wife, Asmita Handa, a commercial pilot, also contributes to their family wealth, with her successful career adding to their financial stability.

Kataria’s wealth, however, is not linked to his civil service salary. Instead, it stems from his family’s business acumen, which is an interesting contrast to the typical financial limitations that come with a government job.

How Amit Kataria Came to Public Attention
Amit Kataria first gained widespread media attention in 2015 when he was serving as the District Collector of Bastar in Chhattisgarh. During this period, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the region, and Kataria made headlines by greeting him while wearing sunglasses. This gesture led to a debate about appropriate protocol for formal occasions, with some criticising his attire while others lauded his personal style. Despite the controversy, Kataria’s reputation as a competent and dedicated civil servant remained intact, and the incident only served to increase his visibility in the media.

The Modest Salary of an IAS Officer
The salary of an IAS officer is often seen as modest compared to the significant responsibilities they shoulder. Entry-level officers can expect to earn between Rs 50,000 and Rs 60,000 per month, with senior officers receiving around Rs 2,00,000 per month. Despite holding top positions, Kataria’s earnings from the IAS were never a primary driver of his wealth. Instead, his career highlights how personal wealth can come from other avenues while still maintaining a dedication to public service.

Amit Kataria’s story is a compelling example of how one can balance a commitment to nation-building with personal prosperity. His rise to prominence is not just about his wealth, but his unique approach to serving the public, his dedication to his work, and the strong values that continue to guide his career.