In the vast sea of Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officers, Priyanka Shukla stands out, not only because of her professional background as a doctor but also due to the unique circumstances that prompted her decision to switch careers.
A Doctor by Calling
Priyanka Shukla, a resident of Lucknow, had initially embraced the path of medicine. Her family envisioned her donning the IAS mantle, a dream many Indian families cherish for their children. However, Priyanka’s heart had a different calling. She passionately wanted to become a doctor. Pursuing her dream, she cleared the MBBS entrance and secured a seat at the esteemed King George Medical University in Lucknow. Upon completing her degree, Priyanka began her practice in her hometown, finding joy in serving patients and attending to their medical needs.
A Fateful Encounter
Life was set on its course until a seemingly regular visit to a slum area changed Priyanka’s trajectory. While she was there for medical checkups, she observed a woman giving her children unclean water to drink. Concerned, Priyanka advised the woman against it, highlighting the health risks associated with consuming such water. The woman’s retort to Priyanka’s advice was piercing: “Are you some kind of collector?”
This seemingly innocuous question carried with it a weight of implications. It wasn’t just a question about her profession, but also about her ability to effect real change in the community.
Embracing a New Challenge
Stirred by the encounter and the implications of the woman’s question, Priyanka reconsidered her professional journey. She realized that while medicine could heal individuals, an administrative role might give her the authority to bring about broader societal change.
With this newfound perspective, Priyanka began her preparations for the UPSC examinations. The journey wasn’t easy. Despite her determination and hard work, she faced a setback in her first attempt. Yet, failure only fueled her resolve further. In her subsequent attempt in 2009, Priyanka’s efforts bore fruit as she successfully joined the IAS cadre.
A New Chapter of Service
Since then, Priyanka Shukla has dedicated herself to public service with an undiminished passion. As an IAS officer, she has served in multiple districts of Chhattisgarh, striving to uplift the lives of the people. For her exceptional service and dedication, she has been honored by the President of India.
Priyanka Shukla’s journey from a doctor to an IAS officer epitomizes the idea that sometimes, life’s unexpected turns lead us to our true calling. Through her story, she inspires many to look beyond conventional paths and to be receptive to life’s unpredictable yet transformative moments.
