Breaking Barriers: Agha Nasir Ali, The Man Who Revolutionized Civil Service in Jammu and Kashmir
Agha Nasir Ali’s life story is a defining moment in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. Born in 1918 in Srinagar’s Nawa Kadal, Agha Nasir Ali became a trailblazer when he topped the first-ever Kashmir Civil Services (KCS) exam in 1941, under Maharaja Hari Singh’s reign. At a time when civil service posts were largely filled through elite nominations, Agha’s determination to compete on merit led to a historic shift in the region’s bureaucratic system.Agha’s fight for meritocracy began when he learned that the Maharaja had nominated his finance minister’s son for civil service training in England. Not one to accept the status quo, Agha made a compelling case to the then Prime Minister, Gopalaswamy Iyengar, for open competition. His persistence led to the introduction of a competitive KCS exam, where Agha not only competed but topped the inaugural test, becoming the first civil servant in the state to earn his post through merit.Starting his career as a Tehsildar with a monthly salary of Rs 250, Agha quickly rose through the ranks, serving as Wazir-i-Wazarat during the Dogra regime. After the end of Dogra rule in 1947, Agha seamlessly transitioned into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), holding key roles under Sheikh Abdullah and Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad’s governments, and later as Secretary to the Government of India.Beyond his administrative achievements, Agha Nasir Ali was known for his impeccable style and charisma, alongside his brother Agha Shaukat Ali. The duo became icons of their time, both in governance and fashion. Agha’s legacy as a reformer who fought for merit-based civil service continues to inspire future generations in Jammu and Kashmir. He passed away at 96, leaving behind an enduring legacy of excellence, integrity, and the belief in merit over privilege.(QNS)
