I Dared to Dial Differently: An Insider's Account of the IAS | Spectrum Auctions, Scandals and the Fight for Good Governance - J.S. Deepak | Buy Online at Beetle Bookshop

I Dared to Dial Differently: An Insider's Account of the IAS | Spectrum Auctions, Scandals and the Fight for Good Governance

(Author: J.S. Deepak)

A candid, compulsively readable memoir of an IAS officer whose four-decade career shaped India's telecom, trade, and administrative landscape.

For four decades, IAS officer J.S. Deepak worked at the highest levels of Indian telecom, trade, and diplomacy—and dared to do things differently. I Dared to Dial Differently offers an honest, insider account of a career defined by conscience, courage, and governance under fire.

From designing and conducting India's landmark 3G spectrum auctions—which generated a record ₹1.06 trillion for the exchequer—to single-handedly blocking a massive procurement scandal at BSNL, Deepak's administrative journey is filled with high-stakes decisions. He spearheaded the Midday Meal Programme across 100,000 schools in Uttar Pradesh, oversaw the development of the 2010 Commonwealth Games Village in Delhi, and represented India on global trade platforms.

Written with wit, wisdom, and profound insight, this memoir offers a rare ringside view of India's civil service 'steel frame'—revealing both its immense power and its vulnerabilities.

Key Highlights:

• Ringside View of the IAS: Essential reading for UPSC aspirants, offering real-world lessons on civil service leadership and public administration.

• Landmark Administrative Milestones: Explores the story behind India's 3G spectrum auctions, BSNL reforms, and major national policy achievements.

• High-Stakes Ethics & Courage: Chronicles the challenges of combating corruption, navigating bureaucratic pressure, and advocating for transparent governance.

• Engaging & Anecdotal: Written with humor and clarity, making complex governance issues accessible to the general reader.