IAS officer who left finance job in London for civil services resigns after 13 years, recalls ‘unforgettable journey’

Divya Mittal, an IAS officer with a background in finance, announced her voluntary resignation from her 13-year career in public service on social media. Mittal, who hails from a humble background, had initially pursued her career in the finance industry after completing her education from IIT Delhi and IIM Bangalore. However, she later felt a strong desire to serve her country and decided to return to India.

Reflecting on her journey, Mittal described the fulfillment and personal growth she experienced during her time in the civil service. Despite her professional success in London, she admitted that something was still missing. The distance from her homeland weighed heavily on her, and she expressed her gratitude for the invaluable lessons learned and the opportunities she had in Uttar Pradesh.

Mittal held various leadership positions, including District Magistrate roles in Deoria, Mirzapur, and Sant Kabir Nagar, as well as serving as a Special Secretary in the Revenue Department. She touched the lives of the people she served, and one incident in particular remains etched in her memory - an elderly woman from the hill of Lahuriya Dih, who blessed her with a simple yet profound gesture of gratitude.

Despite her departure from the IAS, Mittal emphasized the lasting impact of her experience and the dream that the soil of her country instilled in her.