Who is Amit Kataria? India’s Richest IAS Officer Who Took ₹1 as Salary
Amit Kataria, a 2004-batch IAS officer of the Chhattisgarh cadre, is recognized as one of India’s wealthiest civil servants, with an estimated net worth of ₹8.90 crore. Despite his financial standing, he is widely respected for his dedication to public service, famously taking a symbolic salary of just ₹1 upon joining the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
Early Life and Educational Background
Amit Kataria hails from Delhi NCR and was ranked 18th in the UPSC 2003 examination, earning his place among the country’s top bureaucrats. Known for his academic excellence, he has an impressive educational record:
- Schooling: Delhi Public School, RK Puram.
- Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi.
This foundation in academic rigor and engineering prepared him for a distinguished career in civil service.
Career Highlights
Kataria has served in several influential roles throughout his career:
- Central Deputation: Recently concluded a 7-year tenure as Joint Secretary in the Department of Rural Development.
- Chhattisgarh Postings: Held key positions as Collector in multiple districts, including Bastar.
Kataria’s postings and contributions have placed him among India’s most notable civil servants, often drawing comparisons with celebrated officers like IAS Tina Dabi and IPS Amit Lodha.
The Sunglasses Controversy
In one of the more high-profile incidents of his career, Amit Kataria found himself in the spotlight during his tenure as District Collector in Bastar. He made headlines for meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi while wearing sunglasses. The Chhattisgarh administration later issued a show-cause notice, questioning his choice of attire during the interaction. The incident, though minor, captured significant media attention.
Salary and Wealth
Kataria’s decision to take a symbolic ₹1 salary as an IAS officer was a reflection of his commitment to public service over financial gain. Coming from a business family involved in real estate in Delhi NCR, Kataria has other sources of income through family enterprises.
Key points about his wealth:
- Net Worth: ₹8.90 crore.
- Family Business: Interests in real estate, generating substantial profits.
Despite his financial independence, Kataria emphasizes his mission to serve the country as the driving force behind his career in civil service.
Personal Life
Amit Kataria is married to Asmita Hondi, a commercial pilot who earns a substantial salary in her profession. The couple often shares glimpses of their personal life and vacations on social media, reflecting a balanced and fulfilling life outside work.
Legacy of Public Service
Amit Kataria’s career exemplifies a blend of financial independence, commitment to public service, and resilience in the face of controversies. From his ₹1 symbolic salary to his high-profile roles in Chhattisgarh and at the central level, his journey inspires aspirants and reinforces the significance of dedication in civil service.
Kataria continues to be a prominent figure in Indian bureaucracy, celebrated for his academic brilliance, professional achievements, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.
