This 2001 batch IAS officer had her goal set at a very young age. “The Civil Services give maximum opportunity to reach out to the poor and serve society. This aspect of IAS has always attracted me,” says Neetu Kumari Prasad. It was not an easy journey for her. As a native of Bihar, finding a conducive environment for competitive exams was difficult as all good students from humanities would switch over to other states for higher education.
“I followed suit and after graduation, came to Delhi to prepare for Civils. With good guidance, I could clear my exams early on. But I got allied services. Since I was not satisfied with that, I didn’t lose my real purpose and while training, I kept preparing for IAS. It was with hard work and perseverance that I could make it to IAS and I am quite happy that I did it because I get utmost satisfaction from my job.”
Neetu Kumari Prasad
The IAS officer, who never felt at any time, any glass ceiling or discrimination, has held many posts and each has taught her something valuable. She says, “There are no high or low points in service, but yes, having been the Collector of two districts, widened my horizon and I learnt to be balanced and calm even in difficult situations. It has made me mentally stronger and mature.”
The dimensions of her service are unlimited and each day is new in terms of learning, feels Neetu Kumari. “I look forward to keeping my learning spirit and enthusiasm high in every job I hold.”
Talking about her achievement, she says, “I am proud of my two districts’ collector tenure — East Godavari and Karimnagar.” Neetu Kumari began her career as Sub-Collector of Badrachalam in Khammam district. She worked as Commissioner of Municipal Corporation of Warangal, Joint Secretary of Tourism Department, Joint Collector of Nalgonda district and Collector of East Godavari district.
Neetu is married to IPS officer, Rajesh Kumar, DIG, Counter Intelligence. “My father encouraged me to opt for civil services,” says the Collector, who is the fourth woman collector of Karimnagar district after Sumita Dawra, G.D. Aruna and Smita Sabharwal. So, how does she unwind? She loves to read, listen to music and spend time with family.
