Meet Amit Kataria, India's richest IAS officer who used to earn Rs 1 as salary

Amit Kataria, an IAS officer renowned for his professional achievements, recently drew significant attention for his personal wealth. With an estimated net worth of Rs 8.9 crore, he is widely regarded as India’s richest IAS officer, according to multiple reports. Kataria, an IIT alumnus, held the role of Joint Secretary in the Department of Rural Development until recently and previously served in various key positions in Chhattisgarh, including as District Collector across multiple districts.

Kataria’s considerable fortune primarily derives from his family’s real estate ventures in Delhi NCR, a business reportedly generating substantial revenue. According to his LinkedIn profile, he graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi, and completed his schooling at Delhi Public School, RK Puram.

While public service is Kataria’s chosen career, his decision to join the civil services stemmed from a desire to contribute to his country. Reports indicate that when he began his career, he accepted a symbolic salary of Rs 1, demonstrating his commitment. His wife, Asmita Handa, is a commercial pilot with a salary in lakhs, and the couple’s social media presence often features their travels and family moments.

In 2015, Kataria found himself in the spotlight. Serving as the District Collector in Bastar, he received Prime Minister Narendra Modi wearing sunglasses, a decision that led to a government-issued notice for his attire, which was considered improper. The incident occurred during a visit by PM Modi to Bastar, with Raman Singh as Chhattisgarh’s Chief Minister. Kataria was photographed with the Prime Minister, and the image quickly spread across media, prompting discussions about protocol for official meetings.

Meanwhile, Kataria’s is one of the country’s most influential civil servants. In fact, the IAS officer is often mentioned in lists of high-profile bureaucrats like Tina Dabi and IPS officer Amit Lodha, who are well-known for their impactful roles and public engagement. Serving in the Chhattisgarh cadre, Kataria achieved an 18th rank in the 2003 UPSC examination, establishing himself among the top-ranking officers in the country.

From a young age, Kataria demonstrated academic excellence, completing his early education at Delhi Public School, RK Puram. He pursued his B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from IIT Delhi before deciding on a career in the civil services. His father reportedly served as a government teacher, instilling a strong sense of public duty in him.

Kataria’s wealth, ranking him among the wealthiest IAS officers, is largely attributed to his family’s well-established real estate business, which operates in Delhi and surrounding areas. According to various media sources, his business generates a substantial income each year.

A resident of Gurugram, Kataria is now posted back in Chhattisgarh after spending seven years on central deputation. His social media platforms often feature images from his vacations, illustrating his fondness for travel.