Beno Zephine, born on April 17, 1990 (36 years old) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, is a true trailblazer in the Indian civil services.
She made history by becoming the first 100% visually impaired person to join the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), a role that was once thought impossible for someone with her condition.
Her appointment in 2014 broke barriers and inspired millions across the country. Beno’s journey wasn’t easy; she prepared for the tough UPSC exams using screen-reading software and sheer determination.
Today, she serves as a diplomat, representing India on the global stage, and has also worked in countries like France.
Keep reading Beno Zephine’s Wiki to explore more about her family, education, career, achievements, and more.
Beno Zephine Wiki & Early Life
| Full Name | Beno Zephine N L |
| Profession | Diplomat (IFS Officer) |
| Age | 36 years old |
| Date of Birth | April 17, 1990 |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Zodiac/Sun Sign | Aries |
| Birthplace | Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Current Address | Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India |
Beno Zephine Husband & Children
Beno Zephine is married, but the name and other details about her husband are yet to be updated.
Beno is also blessed with two sons, Christen & Ancel. Their birth dates are yet to be updated.
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Husband | Yet to be updated |
| Children | Sons: Christen & Ancel |
Beno Zephine Family
Beno was born into a humble and supportive family in Chennai. Her father, Luke Anthony Charles, worked with the Indian Railways. Her mother, Mary Padmaja, is a homemaker.
Her parents played a big role in her success, especially during her UPSC preparation. Her mother often read study materials aloud to help her study. Their belief in her made a huge difference in her journey.
Information about her siblings is yet to be updated.
| Parent’s Name | Father: Luke Anthony Charles Mother: Mary Padmaja |
| Siblings | Yet to be updated |
Beno Zephine Education
Beno Zephine started her education at the Little Flower Convent Higher Secondary School for the Blind in Chennai. This school helped lay a strong foundation for her academic journey.
She then completed her Bachelor’s degree in English Literature at Stella Maris College, Chennai. Later, she went on to pursue a Master’s degree in English Literature from Loyola College, also in Chennai.
| School | Little Flower Convent Higher Secondary School for the Blind, Chennai |
| Alma Mater | Stella Maris College; Loyola College, Chennai |
| Highest Qualification | B.A. in English Literature; M.A. in English Literature |
Beno Zephine Career
Beno Zephine’s career is not just inspiring, it’s groundbreaking. She didn’t follow the usual path, and that’s what makes her story so special.
Starting the Civil Services Journey
After finishing her postgraduation studies, Beno decided to take the UPSC Civil Services Exam, one of the toughest exams in India.
She faced many challenges, especially the lack of Braille study materials. But she didn’t give up.
With the help of screen-reader software and strong family support, she cleared the exam in 2013 and ranked 343rd.
Making History with the Indian Foreign Service
In 2014, she became the first 100% visually impaired person to join the Indian Foreign Service (IFS).
This was possible only after the government made special accommodations, proof of how her success helped reshape policies.
Global Representation
After her training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie, she officially began her career as a diplomat.
She has served in various roles in India and abroad. One of her known postings was at the Indian Embassy in Paris, France, representing India internationally.
| Year | Role | Network/Organization |
| 2013 | UPSC Civil Services Aspirant (AIR 343) | UPSC |
| 2014 | Indian Foreign Service Officer (IFS) | Ministry of External Affairs, India |
| 2015 | Diplomat (Trainee at LBSNAA) | LBSNAA, Mussoorie |
| 2016 | Indian Diplomatic Officer (Overseas Post) | Embassy of India, Paris (France) |
| Present | Indian Diplomatic Officer | Ministry of External Affairs, India |
Beno Zephine Net Worth, Salary
Beno Zephine’s estimated net worth is around $5 million (₹41.65 crores). Her annual salary as an IFS officer is estimated to be around $720 (₹60000).
| Net Worth in Dollars (Approx.) | $5 million (₹41.65 crores) |
| Salary (Approx.) | $720 (₹60000) |
Beno Zephine Height, Weight & Physical Stats
Beno Zephine carries herself with grace and quiet confidence.
While exact details like her height and weight are yet to be updated, she is often seen in simple, elegant attire that reflects her grounded personality and professional role.
She is 100% visually impaired since birth, her eye color and hair are black.
| Height | In centimetres: Yet to be updated In meters: Yet to be updated In feet & inches: Yet to be updated |
| Weight | In kg: Yet to be updated In lbs: Yet to be updated |
| Body Measurements | Yet to be updated |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Black |
Beno Zephine Instagram, X
 @beno_zephine | |
| X |  @benozephine |
Interesting Facts About Beno Zephine
- Beno Zephine cleared the UPSC exam with the help of screen-reading software.
- Her mother read aloud books and study materials during her preparation.
- The IFS entry rules were changed to accommodate her disability.
- She received her training at LBSNAA, Mussoorie, just like other top officers.
- Beno has served as a diplomat in Paris, representing India abroad.
- She inspires many disabled aspirants across India to aim for the UPSC.
FAQs
Who is Beno Zephine?
Beno Zephine is an Indian diplomat and the first 100% visually impaired person to join the Indian Foreign Service (IFS).
When was Beno Zephine born?
Beno Zephine was born on April 17, 1990, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
What is Beno Zephine’s educational background?
Beno Zephine studied at Little Flower Convent School and earned her postgraduation degree in English Literature from Loyola College, Chennai.
How did Beno Zephine prepare for the UPSC exams?
Beno Zephine used screen-reader software like JAWS and received great support from her mother during her studies.
What is her current role?
Beno Zephine currently serves as a diplomat under India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
