Daijiworld Media Network - Dehradun
Dehradun, Jun 8: Born with a rare genetic condition that limited her height to just 3.5 feet, Arti Dogra’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the very beginning, doctors doubted she would be able to attend a regular school, and society’s whispers often cast shadows of doubt. But Arti, backed by her determined parents—especially her mother, a school principal—refused to be defined by her physical stature or the limitations others imposed on her.
Growing up in Dehradun, Arti attended a reputed girls’ school and later graduated in economics from Delhi University’s prestigious Lady Shri Ram College. Despite facing judgment and discrimination throughout her life, she remained steadfast in her goals. During her college years, Arti decided to pursue the civil services, not just as a profession but as a platform to serve those who are often marginalized.
Her hard work and resilience paid off when she cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in her very first attempt, securing an impressive All India Rank of 56. Opting for the Rajasthan cadre, she began a career marked by compassion, inclusion, and a relentless commitment to public service.
As the district collector of Ajmer, Arti turned her personal experiences with exclusion into actionable governance. She spearheaded efforts to make elections more accessible for differently-abled voters by arranging wheelchairs, transport assistance, and outreach programs. Thanks to her initiatives, over 17,000 differently-abled citizens were able to exercise their voting rights—one of the highest numbers recorded in the state.
Her dedication extended beyond elections. Arti championed the ‘Banko Bikano’ campaign to promote sanitation and end open defecation through community engagement. She also launched ‘Doctors for Daughters’, an initiative encouraging medical professionals to support the education of underprivileged girls, reflecting her focus on empowering the most vulnerable.
Despite her many achievements, Arti remains humble and focused on the larger mission. She does not seek the spotlight but chooses to inspire through her story, reminding others that challenges are inevitable but surmountable. “Everyone will face problems in life. I guarantee you that,” she says. “But those who confront their challenges head-on and refuse to give up are the ones who truly bring about change.”
In a country where success is often measured by ranks or titles, Arti Dogra’s life is a powerful reminder that true leadership is defined by empathy, grit, and unwavering belief in oneself. Her story proves that real strength is never measured in feet but by the courage to rise and make a difference.