Meet IAS Renu Raj, Who Left Medical Career To Crack UPSC Exam In First Attempt With AIR-2

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam stands as one of the most challenging tests in India, attracting lakhs of aspirants annually. However, only a select few manage to conquer this formidable hurdle. Among them is IAS officer Renu Raj, hailing from Kerala, who achieved the remarkable feat of securing All India Rank of 2nd in the 2014 UPSC exam on her first attempt. Growing up in Kottayam, Kerala, Renu was exposed to a family environment where public service was valued, with her father serving in a government role. After completing her medical education at the Government Medical College in Kottayam, Renu worked as a surgeon before embarking on her UPSC preparation journey.
From Medic to Bureaucrat: Renu’s Inspiring Journey
Driven by a deep-seated desire to impact a larger community, Renu decided to pursue her dream of becoming an IAS officer by preparing for the UPSC examination. Her belief in the transformative power of governance resonates in her statement, where she highlighted the ability of a civil servant to positively influence the lives of thousands. She not only cleared the exam but also secured an impressive All India Rank of 2 in her very first attempt.
When asked why she quit her medical career, she had once said, “As a doctor, I could help 50 or 100 patients, but as a civil servant, one decision can benefit thousands of people.”
Renu’s IAS journey has been marked by dedication and perseverance. Since 2013, she diligently studied 3-6 hours daily for the UPSC exam, balancing it with her medical practice for six-seven months. Eventually, she committed to full-time preparation, adjusting her schedule post-Mains exam to accommodate her practice. Renu chose Malayalam as an alternative paper throughout her IAS studies as a result of this.
Despite reducing study hours, Renu maintained her focus and determination, ensuring her preparation remained unaffected. Her story exemplifies the importance of consistency and prioritization in achieving one’s goals.
According to reports, Renu Raj is known for taking tough actions against illegal constructions and land encroachments in the hill station of Munnar.
In an earlier interview, Renu Raj shared her thoughts on changing society, “I have no notion of changing the society overnight.” She further said, “I can guarantee you one thing. Nobody will have to approach me for a second time if they have a genuine demand.”
Renu Raj’s Family
Renu was born on January 11, 1987, in Changanassery, Kottayam district. M K Rajakumaran Nair, her father, is a former KSRTC bus conductor, and her mother, Latha V N, is a homemaker who is a third rank holder in BA Malayalam student at MG University.  Renu also has a sister, Remya Raj, who is a doctor. Renu was previously married to Dr. Bhagat L S, a healthcare expert.
Renu Raj later married to Sriram Venkataraman, MD of Kerala State Medical Services Corporation. Sriram Venkataraman, securing the 2nd rank in the UPSC exam in 2012, stands as a source of her inspiration.