From Daily Wage Family to IAS Officer: The Inspiring Journey of Preeti Mathil

Born in the small town of Sehore in Madhya Pradesh, Preeti Mathil is one of those rare individuals who turned adversity into strength. Raised in a family that survived on daily wages, she refused to let poverty define her destiny. Today, she stands among the most respected and dynamic IAS officers of the state.

A 2009-batch Indian Administrative Service officer, Preeti Mathil’s life story is a powerful example of how determination, discipline, and purpose can overcome even the harshest circumstances.

Childhood Shaped by Hardship

Preeti Mathil grew up in severe financial hardship. Her father, Santosh Kumar, worked as a casual labourer at Bhopal Sugar Mills. When the mill shut down, the family lost its primary source of income. Instead of giving up, her father turned to farming to support the household.Money was scarce, and daily survival was a struggle. Yet, education was never compromised. Preeti recalls that her parents never allowed their children to feel deprived. Despite the hardships, Preeti, her brother, and her sister made academics their top priority. Even today, their family living room is decorated with trophies and medals won by the three siblings.

A Scholar with Unshakable Discipline

Preeti Mathil was a bright student from the very beginning. She pursued graduation in Agriculture and earned a gold medal for her academic excellence. For the UPSC Civil Services Examination, she chose Agriculture and Geography as her optional subjects.She moved to Delhi for coaching and followed an intense study routine. Preeti studied for nearly 14 hours a day, treating books as her closest companions. Her discipline paid off early.

At just 23 years of age, she cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in her first attempt, securing an All India Rank of 92. Her father later said that while the day Preeti was born was the happiest moment of his life, her UPSC success came very close to matching that joy.

Struggles That Built Strength

Preeti believes her resilience comes directly from her parents. Growing up among farmers and daily-wage workers, she saw how the poor often struggle to even voice their rights. These early experiences shaped her administrative vision.

Even after becoming an IAS officer, her biggest goal has remained unchanged—to work for small farmers, labourers, and marginalised communities, and ensure that governance reaches the last person in the line.

A Family Rooted in Public Service

IAS Preeti Mathil is married to IPS Tarun Nayak, a 2009-batch IPS officer. He currently serves as Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Intelligence/Special Branch, at the Police Headquarters in Bhopal. Earlier, he held key positions including Commandant of the Hawk Force in Madhya Pradesh.

Together, the couple represents a strong commitment to public service.

Advice for UPSC Aspirants

Preeti Mathil frequently shares guidance with civil services aspirants. Her advice is practical and grounded:

• Stay focused; UPSC is not for wishful thinking alone.
• Build a stable and holistic strategy.
• Hard work and self-belief are your greatest assets.
• Develop a habit of reading—it will always support you.
• Take small, consistent steps toward your goal every day.
• Remain calm and natural during the interview.

A Career of Impact

After joining the IAS, Preeti Mathil has held several important administrative positions in Madhya Pradesh. She has served as Collector in Rewa, Sagar, and Mandla, earning a reputation for efficiency and sensitivity.

Currently, she is serving as Deputy General Manager at TRIFED (Ministry of Tribal Affairs), where she continues to work on initiatives aimed at empowering tribal communities and strengthening livelihoods.

IAS Preeti Mathil’s journey proves that background does not decide destiny. With perseverance, integrity, and purpose, even the toughest beginnings can lead to extraordinary achievements. Her life remains an inspiration for millions who dare to dream beyond their circumstances.