- IPS Ankita Sharma is likely Chhattisgarh’s first female IPS officer, born on June 25, 1990, in Durg, and currently 35 years old as of April 2025.
- She seems to have cleared the UPSC exam in her third attempt in 2018, securing the 203rd rank, and serves in the Chhattisgarh cadre.
- Research suggests she has held significant roles, including SP for Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai districts, and was involved in anti-Naxal operations.
- It appears she has received recognition, such as the Indra Bhushan Award in February 2021, and is married to Vivekanand Shukla, an army officer.
Background and Education:
IPS Ankita Sharma was born in Durg, Chhattisgarh, to Rakesh Sharma, a businessman and Congress member, and Savita Sharma, a homemaker. She excelled academically, scoring 92% in 10th and 90% in 12th at St. Xavier Senior Secondary School, Durg, and later earned an MBA as a gold medalist from Chhattisgarh Swami Vivekananda Technical University, Bhilai.
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UPSC Journey and Career:
Ankita cleared the UPSC exam in 2018 on her third attempt, with a rank of 203 and Public Administration as her optional subject. Her career includes roles like trainee IPS in Balodabazar-Bhatapara, where she seized 53,000 liquor bottles, and CSP Raipur Azad Chowk, leading Operation Clean with 700 kg ganja seized. She was the first woman Additional SP for Naxal operations in Jagdalpur and currently serves as SP for Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai districts.
Personal Life and Recognition:
She is married to Vivekanand Shukla, an army officer. Ankita received the Indra Bhushan Award in February 2021, was praised by actress Raveena Tandon, and challenged Congress MLA Shakuntala, showcasing her fearlessness.
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IPS Ankita Sharma: A Trailblazer in Chhattisgarh’s Law Enforcement Landscape
In the rugged terrains of Chhattisgarh, where the fight against Naxalism and crime remains a daily challenge, IPS Ankita Sharma stands as a beacon of courage, determination, and leadership. As the first female IPS officer from Chhattisgarh, her journey from a small town in Durg to the forefront of law enforcement is a narrative of perseverance, intellect, and an unyielding commitment to public service. As of April 2025, her story continues to inspire, with her current role as Superintendent of Police (SP) for Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai districts and a legacy of breaking barriers in a male-dominated field.
Early Life and Education: A Foundation for Success
Ankita Sharma was born on June 25, 1990, in Durg, Chhattisgarh, into a family that valued education and public engagement. Her father, Rakesh Sharma, is a businessman and a member of the Congress party, while her mother, Savita Sharma, is a homemaker. As the eldest of three siblings, with two younger sisters, Ankita exhibited academic excellence from a young age. She completed her primary and secondary education at St. Xavier Senior Secondary School in Durg, achieving an impressive 92% in her 10th standard and 90% in her 12th standard.
Driven by ambition, Ankita pursued higher education at Chhattisgarh Swami Vivekananda Technical University in Bhilai, where she earned an MBA and graduated as a gold medalist. This academic achievement, not only showcased her intellectual prowess but also prepared her for the rigorous challenges of the civil services, laying a strong foundation for her future endeavors.
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The UPSC Journey: Perseverance Pays Off
The path to becoming an IPS officer is notoriously difficult, and Ankita’s journey was marked by resilience. She first attempted the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination in 2016 but failed to clear the mains. In 2017, she did not make it past the prelims. However, her third attempt in 2018 proved successful. With sheer determination and rigorous preparation, she secured the 203rd rank nationwide, choosing Public Administration as her optional subject. Her total score was an impressive 1035 marks, with 867 in the mains and 168 in the interview. This achievement marked the beginning of her illustrious career in the Indian Police Service (IPS), allocated to the Chhattisgarh cadre.
Career Milestones: A Trailblazer in Action
Ankita’s career has been defined by significant postings and groundbreaking achievements, each role testing her mettle and showcasing her leadership:
- Trainee IPS Officer (Balodabazar-Bhatapara): During her training in Balodabazar-Bhatapara district, she seized 53,000 bottles of illicit liquor, demonstrating her commitment to law enforcement from the outset.
- CSP Raipur Azad Chowk: As Circle Superintendent of Police (CSP) at Raipur Azad Chowk, she led “Operation Clean,” resulting in the seizure of 700 kg of ganja. This operation, highlighted her dedication to combating drug trafficking and curbing narcotics-related crimes.
- Additional SP Naxal Operation Jagdalpur: Ankita made history as the first woman to hold this position. Her role involved leading operations against Naxalites in Jagdalpur, one of India’s most insurgency-prone regions. Her bravery and strategic acumen earned her widespread respect.
- OSD Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai: As Officer on Special Duty (OSD), she established a District Reserve Guard (DRG) and set up a new Naxal camp. These initiatives,, strengthened Chhattisgarh’s security infrastructure and demonstrated her ability to lead high-stakes operations.
Currently, as of April 2025, Ankita serves as the SP for Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai districts, continuing to prioritize public safety and law enforcement while addressing the unique challenges of Chhattisgarh’s diverse landscape, as confirmed by multiple sources including.
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Personal Life: Strength in Unity
Beyond her professional achievements, Ankita’s personal life reflects her balanced approach to life. She is married to Vivekanand Shukla, an army officer, whose dedication to serving the nation mirrors her own. Their union, symbolizes a partnership built on mutual respect and shared values a source of strength for both as they navigate their demanding careers.
Awards and Recognitions: Acknowledging Excellence
Ankita’s exemplary service has earned her several accolades, underscoring her impact and leadership:
- Indra Bhushan Award (February 2021): Presented for her outstanding contributions to society.
- Praise from Raveena Tandon: The Bollywood actress commended Ankita for her courage and dedication, highlighting her public recognition.
- Challenge to Congress MLA Shakuntala: Ankita’s fearlessness was evident when she stood up to political figures during her tenure as Additional SP Naxal Operation Jagdalpur, showcasing her commitment to justice over political pressure.
These recognitions highlight not only her professional achievements but also her moral courage in standing up for what is right.
Physical Attributes and Public Presence
Standing at 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 60 kg, with black eyes and hair, Ankita carries herself with grace and confidence. Her presence extends beyond her professional duties, with a strong social media following 834,000 followers on Instagram as of August 2024. Through her online platforms, she shares insights into her life as an IPS officer, inspiring many aspiring civil servants and amplifying her influence.
Inspiration and Legacy
Ankita Sharma draws inspiration from Kiran Bedi India’s first female IPS officer whose trailblazing career paved the way for women in law enforcement. Similarly, she serves as an inspiration for countless young women across India, proving that with determination and hard work, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness .
As of April 2025, at the age of 35, IPS Ankita Sharma continues to serve with distinction. Her legacy grows with each passing day as she remains committed to protecting Chhattisgarh’s citizens and upholding justice. Her journey from a small town in Chhattisgarh to becoming a pivotal figure in the state’s fight against crime and insurgency is a narrative of triumph over adversity, making her a true role model for aspiring civil servants and women everywhere.
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Table: Key Milestones in IPS Ankita Sharma’s Career
| Year | Role/Contribution | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | First UPSC Attempt, Failed Mains | Early setback, built resilience |
| 2017 | Second UPSC Attempt, Did not clear Prelims | Continued determination |
| 2018 | Cleared UPSC, Rank 203, Joined IPS Chhattisgarh Cadre | Marked entry into IPS, began career |
| Early 2018 | Trainee IPS, Balodabazar-Bhatapara, Seized 53,000 Liquor Bottles | Demonstrated early commitment to law |
| Post-2018 | CSP Raipur Azad Chowk, Operation Clean, 700 kg Ganja Seized | Curbed drug trafficking, enhanced security |
| Post-2018 | Additional SP Naxal Operation Jagdalpur, First Woman | Led anti-Naxal operations, broke barriers |
| Post-2018 | OSD Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai, Established DRG, New Naxal Camp | Strengthened security infrastructure |
| 2021 | Received Indra Bhushan Award (Feb 2021) | Recognized for societal contributions |
| 2025 | Current Posting: SP Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai | Continues to lead in law enforcement |
This table summarizes key milestones, highlighting her educational achievements, UPSC journey, administrative roles, and policy contributions, providing a clear overview of her career trajectory.
Conclusion
IPS Ankita Sharma’s biography is a narrative of excellence, innovation, and service. Her contributions to Chhattisgarh’s law enforcement, from anti-Naxal operations to drug trafficking crackdowns, have been transformative, positioning her as a pivotal figure in the state’s progress. As of April 2025, her leadership continues to shape Chhattisgarh’s future, inspiring a new generation of administrators to pursue excellence in public service.