Learn about Pranjal Patil, India’s pioneering visually impaired IAS officer, her inspiring journey, and remarkable achievements. This detailed biography covers her life, career, and the challenges she overcame.
Wiki/Bio
Born on Friday, April 1, 1988 (age 34 as of 2022), in Wadaji Village, Jalgaon, Maharashtra, Pranjal Patil’s zodiac sign is Aries. She was born with impaired vision; accounts vary on the cause, with some suggesting sun exposure at age six and others mentioning an eye injury. Regardless, she eventually experienced complete vision loss.
Her family relocated to Mumbai, where she attended the Kamla Mehta School for the Blind. She excelled academically, continuing her education through intermediate studies at Chandibai Himatlal Manshukhani College in Ullhasnagar and earning a Bachelor of Arts (BA) from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. She further pursued her education at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), completing an MA, MPhil, and PhD in International Relations.
Physical Appearance
- Approximate Height: 5’2″
- Eye Color: Black
- Hair Color: Black
Family & Husband
Pranjal hails from a Hindu family. Her father, Lahen Singh B Patil, is an engineering assistant, and her mother, Jyothi Patil, is a homemaker. She has a married elder brother. She is married to Komal Singh Patil, a businessman.
Career
Pranjal’s journey to becoming an IAS officer was filled with challenges. She first attempted the UPSC exam in 2015, achieving AIR 773 and initially being allotted a position with the Indian Railways Accounts Service (IRAS). However, this appointment was later rescinded due to the Railways’ policy against employing individuals with 100% blindness. This setback fueled her determination.
Undeterred, she fought for her rightful place, appealing to high-ranking officials and leveraging media attention. This led to a subsequent, less suitable, job offer in the Postal and Telecommunications Department. She persisted, ultimately retaking the UPSC exam in 2017 and achieving AIR 124, securing her place as the first visually impaired IAS officer.
Her training included time at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration and served as Assistant Collector of Ernakulam district in Kerala. On October 14, 2019, she assumed her role as Sub Collector of Thiruvanthapuram, marking a historic moment for India.
Facts
Pranjal’s journey is marked by remarkable resilience and determination. Here are some key highlights:
- She navigated public transport independently during her college years.
- She prepared for the UPSC exam without coaching classes, relying on self-discipline and technology, notably JAWS screen reading software. She had a dedicated friend, Vidushi, who served as a crucial scribe during her exams.
- She admires Stephen Hawking and Daisaku Ikeda, drawing inspiration from their lives and philosophies.
- She proactively promoted organ donation, even setting up a stall at her brother’s wedding.
Technology Used During UPSC Preparation
| Software | Function |
|---|---|
| JAWS (Job Access With Speech) | Screen reading software providing text-to-speech and refreshable Braille display. |
Pranjal Patil’s story serves as an inspiration, proving that determination and perseverance can overcome significant obstacles. Her achievement has opened doors for others with disabilities, demonstrating the power of inclusivity and opportunity.
