Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Sep 11: Vijayalakshmi Bidari, who created history by becoming the first person from Karnataka to top the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2001, continues to be a source of inspiration for civil service aspirants across the country even today.
Her achievement, over two decades ago, was not just a personal milestone but also a proud moment for Karnataka. At a time when the exam was considered an almost insurmountable challenge, Bidari’s success story became an example of perseverance, discipline, and clarity of purpose.
Known for her meticulous preparation and determined spirit, she broke barriers and set new benchmarks in a field traditionally dominated by a few states. Her accomplishment placed Karnataka firmly on the map of civil service excellence, motivating countless young students to dream big and attempt the examination with confidence.
Bidari’s academic journey reflects her brilliance from an early age. She scored a perfect 100/100 in mathematics in her 10th standard board exam, missing the state rank by just five marks. She pursued Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology in her higher secondary education and later secured a merit seat in Computer Science Engineering at RV College of Engineering, Bengaluru (1995–1999). In addition, she completed a Professional Development Program at the Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand, in 2014, focusing on governance and anti-corruption strategies. Earlier, in 2010, she pursued Public Policy studies at the Korea Development Institute, Seoul.
While still a student, Bidari impressed during campus selections, securing offers from BFL Software, HPCL Calcutta, and several others—becoming the only candidate from Bangalore University chosen by HPCL against stiff competition from top MBA graduates. Despite her young age, she stood out for her grit and capability.
She cleared the Civil Services Examination in 2000 with the highest rank in the Rajasthan cadre, becoming the first woman from South India to achieve the top position. Her journey began in 1999 when she attempted the exam soon after completing engineering. Though she initially missed the IAS by 35 marks, her determination paid off the following year, when she emerged as the All-India topper. Her interview, which tested her on computers, microprocessors, gravitation, PSLVs, and GSLVs, showcased her technical depth and confidence.
In January 2015, she was appointed as regional director, Staff Selection Commission, Bengaluru, and has since served in key administrative roles. From the Indian Customs and Central Excise Service to her current position as divisional commissioner in Maharashtra, her journey is nothing short of inspirational.
Bidari hails from a family steeped in public service. Her father, Shankar Bidari, served as director General and inspector general of police (DG&IGP) of Karnataka. Her husband, Mallikarjuna Prasanna, is a deputy commissioner of police in Mumbai, while her brother Vijayendra Bidari is the superintendent of police in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. His wife, Rohini P Bhajibhakare, is an IAS officer serving as assistant collector in Madurai. Except for her mother Umadevi, every member of her immediate family belongs to either the IAS or IPS cadre—an extraordinary distinction.
Beyond her achievements, Bidari’s journey has been a guiding light for women and youth aspiring to enter public service. Her success highlighted the importance of resilience and hard work in overcoming challenges, and her career in administration has reflected her deep commitment to serving society.
Even today, as aspirants from Karnataka and other states prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, they look up to Vijayalakshmi Bidari’s story as a reminder that with dedication and determination, no goal is too distant.