Riju Bafna is one of those IAS officers who truly stands out—not just for her impressive career in public service, but for her resilience, dedication, and the way she’s balanced personal life with demanding responsibilities. As a 2014-batch Madhya Pradesh cadre officer, she’s served in key roles like District Collector in places such as Shajapur and Narsinghpur, focusing on real issues like water conservation, maternal health, and economic empowerment for communities.
People often search for “Riju Bafna husband” because her story includes a notable marriage to another IAS officer, highlighting how two civil servants navigated their careers together. Let’s dive into the details in a straightforward, inspiring way.
Table of Contents
Who Is Riju Bafna? A Quick Background
Born on September 28, 1988, Riju Bafna cleared the UPSC Civil Services Exam with flying colors, securing All India Rank 77 in her attempt. She holds a graduate degree in Micro Economics and an M.A. in Development Economics from the University of Delhi. Before joining the IAS, she worked with Cambridge Economic Policy Associates, bringing sharp analytical skills to governance.
Her career has been marked by impactful postings in Madhya Pradesh. She’s known for initiatives in districts like Shajapur, where she pushed for better public healthcare, anti-corruption measures, and women’s empowerment. Riju has also been vocal about challenges women face in professional spaces, drawing from personal experiences to advocate for change.
- Education: B.A. and M.A. in Economics from Delhi University
- UPSC Achievement: AIR 77 (2013 exam cycle)
- Batch and Cadre: 2014, Madhya Pradesh
- Notable Roles: District Collector (Shajapur, Narsinghpur, among others)
- Focus Areas: Water conservation, health services, community development
She’s often described as an optimist and traveler, qualities that shine through in her work and social media presence.
Riju Bafna’s Husband: Avi Prasad, Her Batchmate and Partner
Riju Bafna’s husband is Avi Prasad, also an IAS officer from the same 2014 batch. Their story is a classic example of two ambitious professionals meeting during training and building a life together in public service.
They got married around 2014-2015, shortly after joining the service. Avi was initially allotted to the Madhya Pradesh cadre, while Riju started in Chhattisgarh. On grounds of marriage, Riju applied for an inter-cadre transfer to Madhya Pradesh to be with her spouse. After some back-and-forth (including cadre transfer discussions handled by DoPT), the couple successfully aligned in the same state, allowing them to support each other’s careers without long-distance challenges.
Both being IAS officers, they understand the demands of the job—the frequent transfers, public scrutiny, and commitment to duty. Their partnership has been seen as a positive model for IAS couples balancing marriage and service.
Here’s a quick comparison table of key details:
| Aspect | Riju Bafna | Avi Prasad |
|---|---|---|
| Batch Year | 2014 | 2014 |
| Cadre | Madhya Pradesh | Madhya Pradesh |
| Marriage Year (approx) | 2014-2015 | 2014-2015 |
| Key Strength | Development economics background, focus on health & empowerment | Fellow civil servant, supportive partner in bureaucracy |
| Notable Aspect | Courage in facing workplace issues | Cadre alignment for family unity |
This table shows how their shared professional world has strengthened their bond.
Life as an IAS Power Couple: Challenges and Strengths
Being married to another IAS officer comes with unique perks and hurdles. On the plus side:
- Mutual understanding of long hours, postings, and public pressure
- Shared values around integrity and service
- Ability to support each other during tough assignments
Challenges include cadre policies (which they’ve overcome), maintaining work-life balance, and handling public interest in their personal life. Riju has spoken openly about broader issues like workplace harassment in the past, showing her commitment to making the system better for everyone—especially women.
Their story inspires many aspirants who wonder if a civil services career leaves room for family. It absolutely does, especially with a partner who gets it.
Conclusion: Inspiration from a Dedicated Duo
Riju Bafna and her husband Avi Prasad represent the best of what the IAS can be: talented individuals committed to nation-building while nurturing a strong personal relationship. In a world where bureaucracy can feel isolating, their journey shows the power of partnership, resilience, and purpose-driven lives.
Whether you’re an UPSC aspirant, curious about IAS lifestyles, or just admiring strong women in leadership, Riju’s story (and her supportive marriage) offers real motivation. As she continues serving Madhya Pradesh with vision and heart, we can only expect more positive impact ahead.
Updated: February 16, 2026