Lakhs of aspirants appear for the UPSC exams every year, but only a small percentage of them manage to clear the exams successfully. Among the successful candidates, a handful of them make the headlines for their remarkable story of perseverance. Renu Raj was working as a successful surgeon in Kerala when she made the decision of transitioning careers. She pursued civil services and successfully secured the IAS position by achieving an All India Rank of 2. 

Educational background

Renu Raj was born and raised in Kottayam, Kerala. Her father held a respectable position in the government services. Renu completed her schooling from St Teresa’s Higher Secondary School in Changanassery, and earned her medical degree from the prestigious Government Medical College in Kottayam. 

A former surgeon

Renu Raj embarked on her UPSC journey while working as a surgeon. Along with a full-time job, she dedicated significant number of hours to her studies. Through unwavering dedication and perseverance, she accomplished the impressive feat of clearing the UPSC exams in her very first attempt with a second rank.

A dedicated officer

Renu Raj had a passion for serving her society and she wished to fulfil her dreams by pursuing civil services. She made the decision to transition from her medical career and follow her passion for administrative service. Presently, she is posted in the charming hill station of Munnar, and she is recognized for her impactful actions against illegal constructions and land encroachments. 

Renu Raj is currently serving as the District Collector and District Magistrate of Wayanad. She is married to Sriram Venkitaraman, also an IAS officer. Renu was previously married to Dr Bhagat LS, a professional in healthcare.

Renu Raj’s family

IAS Sriram Venkitaraman joined the Indian Administrative Services in the year 2012, while Renu achieved the same feat in 2014. Renu’s journey inspires countless others to embrace the power of perseverance and dedication in the pursuit of one’s dreams. She shares that as a surgeon, she could only help 50 to 100 people, but as a civil servant, she gets the opportunity of helping thousands of people.