Flashes Before My Eyes: The Civil Service and More

Book Details:

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• ISBN: 9788131612392

• Language: English

• Binding: Hardcover

• Pages: 360

• Release Date: 01-12-2022

About the Book:

This autobiography offers a deep and personal insight into the life of Inderjit Khanna, a distinguished civil servant. The book provides a glimpse into his personal and professional journey, beginning with his humble beginnings and the sacrifices made by his parents to ensure a proper education for their children. It delves into his school life, including his connection with Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, a classmate at Sherwood College.

Throughout the narrative, the author recounts his struggles, growth, and accomplishments, offering a detailed account of his career in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). He reflects on his diverse roles, from his service in rural development, focused on helping the poorest sections of society, to his time working with top industrialists in the Ministry of Finance. The book tackles the question of the ideal role of government—whether it should prioritize the welfare of the majority poor or the minority rich.

This memoir blends both professional and personal experiences, offering a balanced perspective on civil service life, challenges, and victories. With candid reflections on his interactions with politicians, businessmen, and the public, Khanna highlights the importance of values in both life and work. He acknowledges the role of higher guidance in his career and stresses the ongoing process of learning throughout his journey.

The book is highly recommended for civil service aspirants and those already in the field. It offers valuable lessons and insights into the world of Indian administration.

Praise for the Book:

• Amitabh Bachchan (Actor): "The style of writing is most engaging – it felt as though ‘Tich’ was sitting beside you narrating his life experiences."

• Shailaja Chandra (Former Chief Secretary, Delhi): "Inderjit has effortlessly blended the official sequence of events with personal family stories, providing a rich account of his life."

• T.V. Rao (Former Professor, IIM Ahmedabad): "An excellent book for IAS aspirants, parents, and everyone interested in civil service."

• C.K. Mathew (Former Chief Secretary, Rajasthan): "The book gives a panoramic view of a life dedicated to public service."

Contents:

1. Brief Family History

2. Parents and Childhood

3. Sherwood

4. St. Stephen’s College

5. Towards a Career

6. The Indian Administrative Service: Training

7. The Sub Divisions

8. Collector and District Magistrate

9. Deputy Secretary, State Government

10. Director of Education

11. Special Secretary, Planning

12. An Interlude

13. Visiting Professor, Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad

14. Commissioner, Tribal Area Development

15. Joint Secretary, Government of India

16. Secretary, Planning, Energy and Finance, Rajasthan

17. Secretary, University Grants Commission

18. Additional and Special Secretary, Government of India

19. Enforcement Director, Government of India

20. Chief Secretary, Rajasthan

21. State Election Commissioner, Rajasthan

22. Association with Gita Mittal Foundation and others: 2008 Onwards

APPENDICES:

• Family Tree

• Service Abstract

• Letters from prominent figures such as Chief Ministers, Chief Secretaries, and more.

About the Author:

Inderjit Khanna, an alumnus of Sherwood College, Nainital, and St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, joined the IAS in 1966 and was allotted the Rajasthan cadre. He has held numerous prestigious positions, including Collector of several districts, Secretary of multiple departments, and Chief Secretary of Rajasthan. After retiring from civil service, Khanna served as the State Election Commissioner and contributed to various organizations in sectors like health, education, and rural development.