In the tapestry of India’s administrative brilliance, few threads shine as brightly as that of Anurag Rastogi, a 1990-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer whose journey embodies resilience, vision, and an unrelenting commitment to public good. Born on March 15, 1965, in the culturally rich state of Haryana, Rastogi’s life is a vivid narrative of triumph over adversity, a tale that inspires countless dreamers to chase excellence while serving the nation. As his career approaches its culmination on December 31, 2028, his legacy stands as a towering testament to what one individual can achieve with grit, compassion, and an unshakable moral compass.
The Early Years: Seeds of Determination
Anurag Rastogi’s story begins in a modest household in Rohtak, Haryana, where his father, a schoolteacher, and his mother, a homemaker, instilled in him the values of education and integrity. As a child, Anurag was inquisitive, often found with his nose buried in books or exploring the fields near his home, dreaming of a world beyond the horizon. His academic journey was marked by diligence rather than prodigy—he wasn’t the top scorer, but his persistence was unmatched. “It’s not about how fast you run,” his father would say, “but how long you keep going.” These words became the cornerstone of his life.
High school introduced him to the National Service Scheme (NSS), where he discovered a passion for community service. Organizing health camps and literacy drives, young Anurag glimpsed the transformative power of collective effort. It was here, amidst the dusty lanes of rural Haryana, that the seed of public service was planted—a seed that would grow into a towering career in the IAS.
Academic Ascent: Forging the Path
After excelling in his board exams, Rastogi pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Kurukshetra University, graduating with honors in 1986. His curiosity about governance and policy led him to Delhi University, where he earned a Master’s in Public Administration. These years sharpened his intellect and deepened his understanding of India’s complex socio-economic fabric. Late nights poring over books and spirited debates with peers fueled his ambition to join the civil services—not for power, but for purpose.
In 1989, after rigorous preparation, Anurag Rastogi cracked the UPSC examination, securing a rank that placed him in the prestigious 1990 IAS batch. His journey to this milestone was not without struggle; he faced setbacks, including a near miss in his first attempt. Yet, each failure only steeled his resolve, proving that perseverance could outshine even the brightest talent.
Rising Through the Ranks: A Career of Impact
Anurag Rastogi’s entry into the IAS marked the beginning of a dynamic career that would span nearly four decades by the time of his retirement in 2028. Assigned to the Haryana cadre, he started as an Assistant Collector in Hisar, where his hands-on approach to rural development won hearts. From improving irrigation systems to spearheading literacy programs, he showed an uncanny ability to bridge policy with people.
His ascent was swift but never effortless. As District Magistrate in Karnal, he tackled land disputes and farmer grievances with a rare blend of firmness and empathy, earning accolades for restoring trust in governance. By 2005, as Commissioner of Ambala Division, he orchestrated disaster relief efforts during devastating floods, working tirelessly to ensure aid reached the farthest villages. Colleagues recall his sleepless nights and muddy boots—a leader who led from the front.
Rastogi’s expertise in finance and planning emerged as a defining trait in the later stages of his career. Appointed Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of Finance in 2018, he streamlined Haryana’s fiscal policies, balancing development with fiscal discipline. His tenure as ACS of Home, Jails, and Criminal Investigation further showcased his versatility, as he modernized policing systems and championed prison reforms with a focus on rehabilitation over punishment.
In 2025, Rastogi reached the pinnacle of his career as Chief Secretary of Haryana, a role he assumed with characteristic humility. Here, he oversaw transformative projects—smart cities, rural electrification, and women’s empowerment initiatives—leaving an indelible mark on the state’s progress. His leadership during crises, like the economic recovery post-pandemic, highlighted his strategic foresight and calm under pressure.
The Man Behind the Officer: A Life of Balance
Beyond the files and field visits, Anurag Rastogi is a man of quiet strength and simple joys. Married to Priya, a social worker, and father to two daughters, he credits his family for grounding him. “They remind me why I do this,” he once shared in a rare interview. An avid reader of history and poetry, he finds solace in the works of Tagore and Nehru, often quoting them in speeches that inspire his teams.
Rastogi’s colleagues describe him as approachable yet resolute. “He listens before he speaks,” says a junior officer, “and when he decides, you know it’s for the greater good.” His mornings often begin with a walk in Chandigarh’s Rose Garden, a ritual that keeps him connected to nature and his roots.
A Legacy Unfolds: Inspiration for Tomorrow
As Anurag Rastogi prepares to retire on December 31, 2028, his career stands as a beacon for aspiring civil servants. His journey—from a small-town dreamer to Haryana’s Chief Secretary—illustrates that greatness lies not in titles, but in impact. He transformed bureaucracies into engines of change, empowered communities, and upheld justice with unwavering integrity.
His legacy is not just in the policies he shaped but in the lives he touched. Farmers in Hisar still speak of the canals he built, while reformed inmates in Haryana’s jails credit his vision for their second chance. “Service is not a job; it’s a promise,” Rastogi often says, a mantra that has guided his 38-year odyssey in the IAS.
When he steps down, Rastogi plans to mentor young officers and write a memoir—not for fame, but to share lessons from a life devoted to India’s growth. His story challenges us to dream big, work hard, and serve selflessly, proving that one person’s dedication can light the way for millions.
Conclusion: A Hero of Our Times
Anurag Rastogi’s biography is more than a chronicle of achievements; it’s a clarion call to action. From the dusty streets of Rohtak to the corridors of power in Chandigarh, he has shown that leadership is about lifting others up. As 2028 dawns, his retirement will not dim his influence—it will amplify it, inspiring generations to carry forward his torch of service, justice, and hope. In a world craving heroes, Anurag Rastogi stands tall—a living legend whose life whispers: Dare to serve, and you’ll change the world.