Amit Kataria, an IAS officer from the 2004 Chhattisgarh cadre, stands out not just for his administrative achievements but also as India’s wealthiest IAS officer, with a reported net worth of Rs 8.90 crore. But what makes his journey extraordinary is his selfless commitment to public service—opting to draw a token salary of just Rs 1 during certain phases of his career.
From IIT to IAS Glory
Born in Gurugram, Haryana, Kataria completed his schooling at DPS RK Puram and earned a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from IIT Delhi. His academic brilliance helped him crack the UPSC exam with an impressive 18th rank in 2003, paving the way for his stellar IAS career.
Balancing Wealth with Duty
While Kataria’s wealth stems largely from family real estate holdings in Delhi-NCR, he has consciously kept personal financial gains separate from his public role. His decision to accept a nominal salary reflects his belief in selfless governance.
Media Spotlight and Personal Life
In 2015, Kataria faced controversy for wearing sunglasses during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, briefly attracting media attention. However, his commitment to honest governance remained untarnished. He is married to Asmita Handa, a commercial pilot, and their careers represent professional excellence.
Inspiration for Future Bureaucrats
Amit Kataria’s life is a rare mix of personal prosperity and professional integrity. His story inspires a new generation of civil servants to serve with dedication, regardless of personal wealth.