A Father’s Sacrifice, A Son’s Triumph: The Story Of Patna SDM, IAS Shrikant Khandekar

Shrikant Kundlik Khandekar, an inspiring IAS officer, has recently garnered significant attention for his remarkable journey. Hailing from Mangalvedha taluka in Solapur district, Maharashtra, Shrikant’s story is one of determination, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to public service. Born into a humble family, Shrikant’s father, despite being illiterate, recognized the importance of education. In a remarkable act of sacrifice, he sold three acres of land to ensure that his son received a quality education.

Shrikant completed his secondary education at Nimboni English School before pursuing agricultural engineering at Dapoli Agricultural University. His academic excellence led to his selection at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay. Driven by a strong desire to serve the nation and his community, Shrikant made the bold decision to pursue a career in civil services, leaving behind a promising engineering path.

In 2020, Shrikant’s dedication and hard work paid off when he successfully cleared the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination on his first attempt, securing an impressive 33rd rank overall and the second position in Maharashtra in the OBC category. His achievement was a testament to his perseverance and his commitment to making a difference.

Currently, Shrikant Khandekar serves as the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Patna. Before this, he completed his Phase 1 training program in Mussoorie and was appointed as an Assistant Collector (under training) in Nalanda, Bihar. Throughout his journey, Shrikant remained focused on his goal of joining the civil services, motivated by a deep sense of duty to his country.

Shrikant’s story is not just about personal success but also about the sacrifices made by his family, especially his father, who ensured that education was a priority despite their circumstances. His journey serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing that with determination, support, and a strong sense of purpose, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve great things.