Dr. Saumya Jha, a dynamic Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, is a name synonymous with dedication, innovation, and public service. As the District Collector of Tonk, Rajasthan, she has carved a niche for herself in the administrative landscape of India. Known for her proactive governance and ability to handle complex situations, Saumya Jha’s journey from a medical student to a top-ranking IAS officer is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on June 8, 1993, in Madhya Pradesh, India, Saumya Jha hails from a family deeply rooted in public service and academia. Her father, Sanjay Kumar Jha, is a retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Bihar cadre, known for his exemplary service. Her mother, a doctor with the Indian Railways, instilled in Saumya a sense of discipline and compassion. Growing up in a household where duty and integrity were paramount, Saumya was inspired to pursue a career that would allow her to serve the nation.
Saumya’s early years were marked by a strong academic inclination and a passion for learning. She completed her schooling in Madhya Pradesh before moving to Delhi for higher education. Her family’s emphasis on education and service shaped her worldview, preparing her for the challenges of a competitive career in civil services.
Educational Journey
Saumya Jha’s educational path is a testament to her intellect and perseverance. She pursued an MBBS degree from a prestigious institution, showcasing her commitment to academic excellence. However, her aspiration to impact society on a larger scale led her to pivot toward the civil services. While preparing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, Saumya faced challenges, particularly with mathematics, a subject she struggled with during her school years. Through persistent practice, she overcame these hurdles, a story she later shared to motivate students.
In 2016, at the age of 23, Saumya cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination with an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 58. Initially allotted the Himachal Pradesh cadre, she later transferred to Rajasthan to be closer to her husband, IAS officer Akshay Godara. Her educational journey, combining medical expertise with administrative acumen, has made her a role model for UPSC aspirants.
Career and Achievements
Saumya Jha’s career as an IAS officer began with her posting in Himachal Pradesh, where she gained valuable experience in grassroots administration. After transferring to Rajasthan, she served in various roles, including CEO of Jaipur District Council and Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Girwa, Udaipur. Her appointment as the District Collector of Tonk marked a significant milestone, making her one of the youngest officers to hold this prestigious position.
Key Contributions in Tonk
As Tonk’s District Collector, Saumya has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at improving education, rural development, and social welfare. One of her flagship projects is the “Learning with Artificial Intelligence” portal, launched in 2023–24 to address the struggles of Class 10 students with mathematics in Tonk. The AI-based platform has been lauded for helping students grasp complex concepts, reflecting Saumya’s innovative approach to governance.
In November 2024, Saumya launched a mission to uplift special castes in Tonk, focusing on skill development and employment opportunities. Her efforts in resolving farmer protests through diplomacy, such as averting a major demonstration on February 20, 2025, earned her widespread praise for her tact and leadership. Additionally, she ensured compensation for victims of the 2024 Samravata violence during Rajasthan’s by-elections, showcasing her commitment to justice.
Administrative Style
Known as “Lady Singham” for her no-nonsense approach, Saumya has taken stern action against inefficiency. In January 2025, she issued 17 charge-sheet notices to Tonk officials for lapses in rural development schemes, reinforcing her reputation as a strict yet fair administrator. Her ability to balance compassion with authority has made her a respected figure in Rajasthan’s bureaucracy.
Personal Life: The IAS Power Couple
Saumya Jha’s personal life garnered significant attention due to her marriage to IAS officer Akshay Godara, a 2017-batch officer from the Rajasthan cadre. Born on April 18, 1994, in Jodhpur, Akshay is an IIT Bombay graduate who secured AIR 603 in the UPSC exam. The couple met during their training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie, and their love story culminated in marriage. Saumya’s decision to change her cadre from Himachal Pradesh to Rajasthan was driven by her desire to be closer to Akshay, a move that sparked admiration among aspirants.
The couple, often referred to as Rajasthan’s “IAS power couple,” has been in the spotlight for their professional synergy. Akshay, who served as the District Collector of Bundi, faced media attention in 2023 for being transferred three times in 18 days, highlighting the challenges of administrative roles. Together, Saumya and Akshay embody dedication to public service while balancing personal and professional commitments.
Recent News and Controversies
Saumya Jha has been in the news recently due to her association with the “slapping incident” during the Rajasthan by-elections in November 2024. Independent MLA candidate Naresh Meena slapped Sub-Divisional Magistrate Amit Kumar Chaudhary in Samravata village, Tonk, during a voter boycott protest. As the District Collector and election officer, Saumya was indirectly involved, as the SDM was acting on her orders to address the boycott.
The Slapping Incident
The incident occurred on November 13, 2024, when villagers in Samravata boycotted the by-election to protest local issues. Naresh Meena, supporting the boycott, demanded Saumya’s presence at the site. When she did not appear, tensions escalated, leading to Meena slapping the SDM. Saumya later clarified that Meena and his supporters joined the boycott after initial voting attempts, framing the incident as an act of aggression. Meena, during his arrest, claimed he called Saumya six times without response, fueling speculation about her handling of the situation.
Criticism and Comparison with Tina Dabi
The incident sparked controversy, with some social media users and reports criticizing Saumya for not managing the situation effectively. Comparisons were drawn with IAS officer Tina Dabi, who gained acclaim for her decisive actions as Jaisalmer’s Collector. Critics argued that Saumya’s absence during the protest exacerbated tensions, though her supporters defended her, citing her strategic delegation and subsequent actions to restore order. The controversy highlighted the intense scrutiny faced by IAS officers in high-stakes situations.
Ongoing Developments
In April 2025, the Rajasthan government approved a ₹30.95 lakh compensation package for Samravata violence victims, following a letter from the Home Department to Saumya, indicating her role in coordinating relief efforts. However, her 21-day leave in June 2025, amid farmer protests and Gurjar reservation demands in Tonk, raised eyebrows. The Jaipur Collector was assigned additional charge of Tonk, prompting speculation about the timing of her absence.
Public Perception and Legacy
Despite controversies, Saumya Jha remains a role model for millions, particularly women and UPSC aspirants. Her initiatives in education, skill development, and crisis management have left a lasting impact on Tonk. Her ability to navigate challenges, from protests to administrative lapses, underscores her resilience. As a young officer with a promising career, Saumya’s journey continues to inspire those aiming to serve the nation.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Saumya Jha
- Youngest Collector of Tonk: Saumya became one of the youngest IAS officers to serve as Tonk’s District Collector.
- MBBS Background: She completed an MBBS degree before pursuing civil services.
- UPSC Rank: Secured AIR 58 in the 2016 UPSC exam at age 23.
- Cadre Change for Love: Transferred from Himachal Pradesh to Rajasthan to be with her husband, Akshay Godara.
- AI Education Initiative: Launched an AI-based learning portal for Class 10 students in Tonk.
- “Lady Singham” Moniker: Earned for her strict administrative actions.
- Farmer Protest Diplomacy: Averted a major farmer protest in Tonk in February 2025.
- Family of Public Servants: Daughter of a retired IPS officer and a railway doctor.
- Slapping Incident Fallout: Gained attention during the 2024 Rajasthan by-election controversy.
- Skill Development Mission: Initiated programs for special castes in Tonk in 2024.
FAQs About Saumya Jha, IAS
1. Who is Saumya Jha?
Saumya Jha is a 2016-batch IAS officer currently serving as the District Collector of Tonk, Rajasthan. She secured AIR 58 in the UPSC exam and is known for her innovative governance.
Saumya Jha is a 2016-batch IAS officer currently serving as the District Collector of Tonk, Rajasthan. She secured AIR 58 in the UPSC exam and is known for her innovative governance.
2. What is Saumya Jha’s educational background?
She holds an MBBS degree and studied at Delhi University before clearing the UPSC exam.
She holds an MBBS degree and studied at Delhi University before clearing the UPSC exam.
3. Who is Saumya Jha’s husband?
She is married to IAS officer Akshay Godara, a 2017-batch officer from the Rajasthan cadre.
She is married to IAS officer Akshay Godara, a 2017-batch officer from the Rajasthan cadre.
4. What controversies is Saumya Jha associated with?
She was linked to the 2024 slapping incident in Tonk, where an MLA candidate assaulted an SDM during a by-election. Critics questioned her handling of the situation.
She was linked to the 2024 slapping incident in Tonk, where an MLA candidate assaulted an SDM during a by-election. Critics questioned her handling of the situation.
5. What are Saumya Jha’s notable achievements?
Her AI-based education portal, farmer protest resolutions, and skill development initiatives in Tonk are among her key contributions.
Her AI-based education portal, farmer protest resolutions, and skill development initiatives in Tonk are among her key contributions.
6. Why was Saumya Jha compared to Tina Dabi?
Social media compared her response to the slapping incident with Tina Dabi’s decisive actions in Jaisalmer, sparking debate about her crisis management.
Social media compared her response to the slapping incident with Tina Dabi’s decisive actions in Jaisalmer, sparking debate about her crisis management.
7. Is Saumya Jha active on social media?
While she maintains a low public profile, her work often trends on platforms like X due to her high-profile role.
While she maintains a low public profile, her work often trends on platforms like X due to her high-profile role.
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