Anil Basak, hailing from a modest family in Bihar’s Kishanganj district, has become a beacon of inspiration after securing All India Rank 45 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2020. Born to a father who worked as a hawker and house help, Anil’s journey from poverty to becoming an IAS officer has resonated across India.
In May 2025, Basak was appointed the Deputy Development Commissioner (DDC) and CEO of the district board in Madhepura, Bihar, following a significant administrative reshuffle ahead of the state assembly elections.
His remarkable story has drawn praise from officials, educators, and the public, highlighting the impact of perseverance, family support, and education in overcoming adversity.
From Street Vendor’s Son to Senior Bureaucrat: A Journey of Grit and Determination
Anil Basak’s early life was marked by financial hardship. His father, Binod Basak, who never completed primary school, worked tirelessly as a hawker and house help to ensure his children received a quality education.
Despite these challenges, Anil excelled academically, eventually gaining admission to IIT Delhi for a B.Tech in Civil Engineering. “My father toiled day and night, and I always felt a responsibility to make his sacrifices worthwhile,” Anil shared in a recent interview.
After two unsuccessful attempts at the UPSC exam, Anil’s determination paid off in 2020 when he secured a top-50 rank, fulfilling his dream of joining the Indian Administrative Service. His story has been widely shared on social media, with many lauding his resilience and his family’s unwavering support.
Recent Developments: New Role in Bihar’s Administration
In May 2025, Anil Basak’s career reached a new milestone when he was appointed Deputy Development Commissioner (DDC) and CEO of the district board in Madhepura, Bihar. This appointment comes at a crucial time, as the state prepares for its assembly elections.
Basak’s new role places him at the heart of district administration, where he is tasked with overseeing development projects, implementing government schemes, and ensuring smooth electoral processes.
State officials have expressed confidence in his abilities, citing his background and commitment to public service as assets to the district.“Anil’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved with hard work and integrity,” said a senior Bihar government official during the announcement of his posting.
Overcoming Setbacks and Inspiring a Generation
Anil’s path to success was not without obstacles. He failed to clear the UPSC prelims in his first attempt in 2018, which he attributed to overconfidence and an inadequate strategy. Undeterred, he learned from his mistakes, refined his approach, and persisted.
On his second attempt, he secured a position in the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) with an all-India rank of 616. Not satisfied, Anil continued to strive for his IAS dream, finally achieving it in his third attempt.
Throughout his journey, Anil has credited his family’s sacrifices and the mentorship of his teachers for his achievements. His story has inspired countless young aspirants, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, to pursue their dreams despite the odds.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Anil Basak’s extraordinary journey from the son of a street vendor to a senior IAS officer embodies the values of perseverance, humility, and the transformative power of education. His success challenges societal barriers and demonstrates that with the right support and determination, anyone can achieve their goals.
As Anil assumes greater responsibility in Bihar’s administration, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the need to nurture talent from all walks of life and to create systems that support the aspirations of every Indian child. How can we, as a society, ensure that stories like Anil’s become more common?
