Meet India’s richest IAS officer who took only Rs 1 as salary

India’s richest IAS officer: The story of Amit Kataria, a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, stands as an inspiring example of success, commitment, and integrity. Known for his bold choices and dedication to public service, Kataria’s journey has captured the attention of many, both within the civil services and the public eye.

Rising from a Strong Foundation

Amit Kataria hails from Gurugram, Haryana, and belongs to a prominent business family with significant real estate interests in Delhi and surrounding regions. Despite his family’s affluence, Kataria was driven by a vision to serve the nation rather than seek personal wealth. His academic journey laid a strong foundation for this ambition: he completed his schooling at Delhi Public School, RK Puram, and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. In 2003, he secured the 18th rank in the highly competitive UPSC examination, setting him on the path to joining the Indian Administrative Service.

Choosing Service Over Salary

One of Kataria’s defining moments came early in his career when he made a remarkable decision to accept a symbolic salary of just 1 rupee, reflecting his commitment to public service. This gesture showcased his priorities and values, emphasizing that his true motivation lay in making a difference rather than accumulating wealth. Today, he is recognized as one of India’s wealthiest IAS officers, yet he remains deeply respected for his integrity and dedication to serving the public.

Amit Kataria comes from a prominent business family, with extensive real estate and construction ventures across Delhi and surrounding areas. His family manages this successful business, contributing significantly to his income. According to reports, his net worth exceeds ₹8 crore. Additionally, as of 2021, his role as an IAS officer provided him with a monthly salary of over ₹1.40 lakh, which included a basic pay of ₹56,000 along with various allowances.

A Public Figure with a National Spotlight

Amit Kataria’s reputation as a fearless and committed officer grew during his tenure as the Collector of Bastar, Chhattisgarh. In 2015, he found himself in the national spotlight when he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi while wearing sunglasses—a gesture that was perceived as a violation of protocol. This incident led to a show-cause notice from the state government. Despite the media attention, Kataria remained focused on his responsibilities, contributing to significant administrative reforms and welfare initiatives, earning the respect and trust of his colleagues and the community.

Personal Life and Continued Commitment

Kataria is married to Asmita Handa, a commercial pilot, whose career and success complement his own achievements. Together, the couple often shares glimpses of their lives on social media, reflecting a balanced and fulfilling personal life alongside their demanding careers. Kataria’s net worth is estimated at ₹8.90 crore, but his dedication to public service remains at the core of his life choices.

Returning to Chhattisgarh

After a seven-year central deputation, Kataria recently returned to Chhattisgarh, where he continues to work toward improving transparency and public welfare within the state. His return is seen by many as a renewal of his commitment to the state, where he has already made lasting impacts.

A Legacy of Inspiration

IAS Officer Amit Kataria’s journey reminds aspiring civil servants and the general public that true success lies not just in personal wealth but in dedication, integrity, and commitment to one’s purpose. His story underscores the value of selflessness in public service, offering a powerful example of how one can balance personal success with an unwavering focus on serving the nation.