A Class 6 student from a farmer’s family in Uttar Pradesh got an opportunity to experience a day in the life of a district magistrate, bringing her dream of becoming an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer a little closer to reality.

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Payal Dixit, a student at Upper Primary School in Pipargaon, Farrukhabad, was given the symbolic role of district magistrate for a day on October 13. The initiative was organised as part of the Uttar Pradesh government’s Mission Shakti campaign during Navratri.

During a public grievance hearing, Payal sat in the district magistrate’s chair, listened to complaints from members of the public and asked officials to take action on the issues raised. The experience offered the young student a glimpse into the responsibilities of district administration and public service.

For many students in Class 6, becoming an IAS officer may seem like a distant ambition. For Payal, the opportunity provided a practical introduction to the kind of work she hopes to pursue in the future.

The initiative also highlighted the importance of encouraging children to develop confidence, leadership skills and an interest in public service from an early age. For a student from a farming family, the experience was an opportunity to see administrative responsibilities up close and understand how officials respond to public concerns.

Payal’s day as a symbolic district magistrate served as a reminder that career aspirations can begin early, and that opportunities to experience leadership can help young students imagine a future in public service.