Passing the UPSC and IPS exams is never easy; it requires overcoming numerous challenges. The challenges can feel even more intense when social and family pressures are also involved. This was the reality for Manjari Jaruhar, Bihar’s first female IPS officer and the fifth woman IPS officer in India. Despite getting married at the age of just 19, she never let her journey to success be derailed.

Manjari Jaruhar got married to an IFS officer at the age of just 19. There was a time when she thought she would be reduced to just a housewife, but she did not give up. After marriage, she realised that her husband and in-laws did not support her education and career. Caught up in household responsibilities, her career began to fade.

Manjari’s journey of chasing dreams

With immense courage, Manjari decided to separate from her in-laws and focus entirely on her dreams. The marriage ended in divorce. This could have shattered the spirit of many, but for Manjari, it became a turning point. Rather than succumbing to life's pressures, she chose to channel her energy into her academic pursuits and professional dreams.

Manjari Jaruhar’s UPSC success 

Manjari completed her English Honours from Patna Mahila College and later pursued her postgraduation at Delhi University. She then began preparing for the UPSC exam and appeared for the first time in 1994. Although she cleared both the prelims and mains, she did not succeed in the interview. Rather than losing hope, she worked even harder and gave it another attempt in 1996. This time, her perseverance paid off, and she successfully cleared the UPSC exam, earning a position in the Indian Police Service.

After retiring, Manjari Jaruhar wrote a book titled Madam Sir, in which she shared her life journey, struggles, and experiences as an IPS officer. Today, she stands as a great inspiration for women across India. Manjari has proven that with hard work and determination, one can overcome any obstacle.