Ramdev Enters UPSC Coaching Space, Launches Patanjali IAS Academy with Avadh Ojha at the Helm

New civil services coaching institute at Haridwar aims to blend academic excellence with holistic student development; scholarships and subsidised fees announced for aspirants.

Yoga guru Baba Ramdev has expanded the Patanjali Group’s footprint into the education sector with the launch of the Patanjali IAS Academy, appointing noted civil services mentor Avadh Ojha as its head.

The academy, located within the Patanjali campus near Haridwar, aims to prepare candidates for the prestigious UPSC Civil Services Examination and train future IAS and IPS officers. Announcing the initiative, Ramdev said the institution seeks to produce successful administrators who can contribute to nation-building while upholding strong ethical values.

The launch marks Patanjali’s entry into India’s rapidly growing civil services coaching industry, estimated to be worth between ₹3,000 crore and ₹4,000 crore annually. Thousands of aspirants from across the country currently migrate to coaching hubs such as Delhi, Prayagraj and Jaipur in pursuit of government careers.

According to the academy's promoters, Patanjali IAS Academy will distinguish itself by combining rigorous academic preparation with a supportive residential environment designed to reduce stress, anxiety and mental health challenges often faced by competitive exam aspirants. The institute plans to provide experienced faculty, structured mentorship and a holistic learning atmosphere within the Patanjali educational ecosystem.

The move is the latest in a series of diversification efforts by the Patanjali Group, which has expanded well beyond its FMCG roots over the years. The group has previously ventured into sectors such as private security services through Parakram Suraksha Private Ltd and apparel through Patanjali Paridhan, while continuing to strengthen its presence in healthcare, education and wellness.

To make coaching accessible, the academy has announced differential fee structures. Students enrolled at Patanjali University will be able to access IAS coaching for less than ₹1 lakh, while external candidates will pay approximately ₹2.5 lakh. The institute has also unveiled scholarship programmes covering 80 to 100 per cent of tuition fees for meritorious students.

With Avadh Ojha’s strong following among UPSC aspirants and Patanjali’s nationwide brand presence, the new academy is expected to intensify competition in India’s highly sought-after civil services coaching market.