Daijiworld Media Network - Jalandhar

Jalandhar, July 17: Dr Mittali Sethi’s extraordinary journey from a successful orthodontist to a dynamic Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer is a powerful story of transformation, purpose, and persistence. Her decision to shift from dentistry to governance did not come early or easily—it was shaped by the harsh realities she witnessed on the ground, far from the clinics she once worked in.

Raised in Jalandhar, Punjab, Mittali was always a high achiever. She completed her dental studies (BDS) in Amritsar and earned a master’s degree in orthodontics from Chennai. For years, she ran a flourishing practice, drawing a promising salary and building a reputation in her field. But despite her success, something felt missing.

That deeper calling emerged during her medical volunteer work in the remote district of Gadchiroli, Maharashtra—one of India’s most underserved tribal belts. There, Mittali came face to face with the brutal everyday struggles of the poor and malnourished. It was a wake-up call that changed everything.

A spark ignited in Gadchiroli

Initially visiting Gadchiroli as a medical volunteer, Mittali found herself increasingly drawn to community work. Teaching children in a tribal youth camp made her feel more fulfilled than any root canal or realignment procedure ever had. One day, she met a UPSC aspirant, and something clicked. It was the first time she seriously considered the possibility of becoming a civil servant.

With that, a new goal took root. She wanted not just to treat patients but to change systems.

Late start, relentless focus

At 29, with a well-settled career behind her, Mittali began her UPSC preparation—something many start in their early twenties. She was a self-admitted novice in general knowledge and current affairs, jokingly described by her husband as having "negative knowledge" in the subject.

Her initial attempts were far from easy. She failed the exam twice, but instead of backing down, Mittali doubled down—waking up early, reading newspapers religiously, and immersing herself in public policy and governance. Her husband and close friends became her support system, cheering her on through self-doubt and burnout.

In 2017, on her third attempt, Mittali secured an impressive All India Rank of 56.

Changing lives as a civil servant

Today, Dr Mittali Sethi serves as the chief executive officer of the Zilla Parishad in Chandrapur, Maharashtra. Known for her people-first approach, she has launched innovative initiatives such as Padhai Bhi, Safai Bhi, which promotes education and sanitation hand in hand.

In just six months, her leadership helped open over 150 rural libraries and build vital sanitation infrastructure in villages. Her efforts to bridge the education gap and improve hygiene have earned her widespread respect.

Mittali’s dedication goes well beyond her official role. While serving as the Director of Vanamati in Nagpur, she made headlines for donating breast milk to support infants in need—an act that won both praise and admiration.

A story of resilience and purpose

Mittali Sethi’s transformation from a dentist with little knowledge of governance to a high-ranking IAS officer stands as proof that it’s never too late to pursue purpose. Her life is a reminder that true success lies not just in titles or salaries, but in the lives we touch and uplift.

For countless civil service aspirants and professionals contemplating career shifts, Mittali’s journey offers more than just inspiration—it offers validation. That it’s possible to start late, stumble along the way, and still emerge as a changemaker.