On June 30, 2025, Chanchal Rana, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, made headlines when he was appointed as the new District Collector of Puri, Odisha. This news came after a tragic stampede during the Jagannath Rath Yatra, leading to the transfer of the previous collector. Chanchal Rana’s story is one of hard work, determination, and a deep commitment to serving people. His life inspires many young Indians who dream of becoming IAS officers. This article tells the unique story of Chanchal Rana, his early life, education, career, personal life, and achievements in simple words.
Early Life and Family Background
Chanchal Rana was born on November 23, 1988, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. His family lived a simple life in the industrial town of Nalco Nagar in Angul district. His father, Anil Kant Rana, worked at the National Aluminium Company (NALCO). His mother, Banajyotsna, was a homemaker who took care of the family. Chanchal grew up in a supportive environment. His parents valued education and encouraged him to study hard. From a young age, Chanchal was curious and determined. He loved reading books and learning new things. His humble background taught him the importance of hard work and helping others.
Chanchal’s childhood was filled with simple joys. He played with friends in Nalco Nagar and spent time studying. His parents noticed his intelligence early on. They supported his dreams and motivated him to aim high. Chanchal’s early life shaped his personality. He learned to stay grounded and work tirelessly toward his goals.
Education and Early Achievements
Chanchal Rana went to Delhi Public School (DPS) in Angul for his schooling. He was a bright student who excelled in studies. He worked hard in school and scored good marks. After completing his 12th grade, Chanchal wanted to pursue engineering. He joined the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Silchar, Assam. There, he studied engineering and earned a B.Tech degree. His time at NIT was important. It taught him discipline and problem-solving skills.
After completing his engineering, Chanchal worked briefly at Indian Oil Corporation. It was a good job, but he wanted to do more for society. He decided to prepare for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam, one of the toughest exams in India. Chanchal chose geography as his optional subject. He studied hard, using books like NCERT textbooks and notes from coaching institutes. His dedication paid off when he cleared the UPSC exam in 2013.
Chanchal Rana IAS Age, Wikipedia, Biography, Batch, Posting, Wife, Home State, Family
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chanchal Rana |
| Date of Birth | November 23, 1988 |
| Place of Birth | Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India |
| Hometown | Nalco Nagar, Angul District, Odisha |
| Family Background | Father: Anil Kant Rana (worked at NALCO) Mother: Banajyotsna (homemaker) |
| Education | - Schooling: Delhi Public School, Angul - Higher Education: B.Tech in Electrical Engineering, NIT Silchar, Assam |
| Early Career | Grade A Officer, Indian Oil Corporation (2010–2013) |
| UPSC Journey | - 2012: Cleared UPSC Civil Services Exam, AIR 219, selected for IPS - 2013: Reappeared, AIR 7, selected for IAS |
| IPS Career | Selected in 2012, trained at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy, Hyderabad Transitioned to IAS in 2014 |
| IAS Career | Joined IAS in 2014 (Odisha Cadre) - Collector & District Magistrate of Balangir (Sep 2020–2024) - Collector & District Magistrate of Khurda (Jan 2024) - Collector & District Magistrate of Puri (Jun 29, 2025) |
| Key Achievements | - Led “Milk Revolution” in Balangir, promoting dairy farming - Organized Balangir Dairy Summit (Dec 2022) - Implemented Project Sweekruti (jobs for 300 transgender individuals) - Indian Express Excellence in Governance Award (2023) |
| Personal Life | - First Marriage: Swadha Dev Singh (IAS, Collector of Rayagada), later divorced - Second Marriage: Engaged to Ananya Das (IAS, 2015 batch) on Feb 19, 2023; married May 1, 2023, Guwahati |
| Hobbies/Interests | Loves time with family/friends; owns pet dogs Atom and Alex |
| Notable Traits | Hard work, humility, dedication to social work; people-centric governance |
| Current Role | Collector & District Magistrate of Puri, Odisha (focus on Jagannath Rath Yatra devotee safety) |
| Recognition | “Milkman of Odisha” for dairy initiatives; praised for efficient, dynamic leadership |
Journey to Becoming an IAS Officer
Chanchal Rana’s UPSC journey is inspiring. In 2012, he cleared the UPSC exam and became an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. He was happy but wanted to become an IAS officer. IAS officers work closely with people and help in development projects. With this goal, Chanchal took the UPSC exam again in 2013. This time, he achieved an incredible All India Rank of 7. His hard work and focus made him one of the top performers in the country.
Chanchal’s success in the UPSC exam was not easy. He faced challenges during preparation. He studied for long hours and stayed focused. He used simple strategies, like reading NCERT books and practicing answer writing. His determination and clear goal helped him succeed. Chanchal joined the IAS in the 2014 batch and was assigned to the Odisha cadre. His journey from an engineering student to an IAS officer shows his strong will and hard work.
Career as an IAS Officer
Chanchal Rana began his IAS career with passion. He worked in different roles in Odisha. In 2020, he was appointed as the District Collector and Magistrate of Balangir. He joined this role during the COVID-19 pandemic. The situation was tough, with many people facing job losses. Chanchal worked hard to help the people of Balangir. He focused on creating jobs and supporting farmers.
One of Chanchal’s biggest achievements in Balangir was the “Milk Revolution.” He encouraged dairy farming in the district. He worked with local farmers to improve milk production. He organized training programs and provided resources. His efforts helped Balangir become a hub for dairy farming. In 2022, he organized the Balangir Dairy Summit, a two-day event to promote dairy farming. This work earned him praise and recognition. He was called the “Milkman of Odisha” for his efforts.
Chanchal’s work was not limited to dairy farming. He also helped migrant workers who returned to Balangir during the pandemic. He created job opportunities for them. His leadership and care for people made him popular in Balangir. In 2023, he received the Indian Express Excellence in Governance Award from Union Home Minister Amit Shah. This award was given to only 18 district collectors across India. It showed Chanchal’s dedication to good governance.
In June 2025, Chanchal was appointed as the District Collector of Puri. This was a big responsibility. Puri is an important city because of the Jagannath Temple. After a stampede during the Rath Yatra, Chanchal was tasked with improving administration and ensuring safety. He promised to make devotee safety his top priority. His new role shows the trust the government has in his abilities.
Personal Life and Marriage
Chanchal Rana’s personal life has also been in the news. He was first married to Swadha Dev Singh, an IAS officer and collector of Rayagada. Their marriage did not last long, and they parted ways. Later, Chanchal met Ananya Das, another IAS officer from the 2015 batch. Ananya was the collector of Sambalpur and a UPSC topper with All India Rank 16.
Chanchal and Ananya got engaged on February 19, 2023, in Sambalpur. Their engagement was a happy event attended by family and friends. The couple married on May 1, 2023, in Guwahati. Their wedding was widely discussed because both were IAS officers with inspiring stories. Ananya, like Chanchal, had faced challenges in her personal life. She was previously married to IAS officer Abdul Akhtar but got divorced. Chanchal and Ananya’s story of finding love and supporting each other touched many hearts.
Achievements and Recognition
Chanchal Rana’s work has earned him many awards. His efforts in Balangir’s dairy sector brought him fame. The Milk Revolution changed the lives of many farmers. His work during the COVID-19 pandemic showed his leadership skills. He helped people in need and brought hope to Balangir. The Indian Express Excellence in Governance Award was a proud moment for him. It showed that his work was noticed at the national level.
Chanchal is also known for his simple lifestyle. Despite being a successful IAS officer, he stays humble. He listens to people and works to solve their problems. His ability to connect with people makes him a great leader. His story inspires young Indians who want to serve the country.
Challenges and Future Goals
Chanchal Rana’s journey has not been without challenges. Preparing for the UPSC exam was tough. He failed in earlier attempts but never gave up. His determination helped him succeed. As an IAS officer, he faced challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent stampede in Puri. Each time, he showed strong leadership and quick decision-making.
In his new role as Puri’s District Collector, Chanchal has big responsibilities. He aims to improve safety for devotees visiting the Jagannath Temple. He also wants to make the administration more efficient. His past work shows that he can achieve these goals. Chanchal’s focus on people’s welfare will guide him in Puri.
Why Chanchal Rana Inspires Us
Chanchal Rana’s life is a story of hard work and service. He came from a simple family but achieved great success. His journey from Nalco Nagar to becoming an IAS officer is inspiring. He shows that with determination, anyone can achieve their dreams. His work in Balangir and now in Puri proves his commitment to helping people.
Chanchal’s personal life also teaches us resilience. He faced challenges in his first marriage but found happiness with Ananya Das. Their story shows that life gives second chances. Chanchal’s humility and dedication make him a role model for young Indians.
Conclusion
Chanchal Rana is more than an IAS officer. He is a leader who cares for people. His work in Balangir brought a Milk Revolution. His new role in Puri shows his ability to handle big challenges. Born in Bhubaneswar, educated at NIT Silchar, and now serving Odisha, Chanchal’s journey is remarkable. His story teaches us to work hard, stay humble, and never give up. As he takes on new responsibilities in Puri, India watches with hope. Chanchal Rana will continue to inspire and serve with dedication.
