IndianMasterminds

IAS officer Krithika Jyotsna’s journey from a mathematics graduate to a 2014-batch IAS officer exemplifies resilience and determination. Ranked All India 30 in her fourth attempt at the UPSC Civil Services Examination, Krithika’s success came after three failed attempts. Her strategy shifted from perfectionism to consistency, a perspective that shaped both her preparation and administrative approach. Hailing from Hyderabad with roots in Uttar Pradesh, Krithika grew up in a family of achievers. Her father, SBL Mishra, served as Principal Chief Conservator of Forests in Telangana, and her mother works in the UP government. Her elder brother, Kartikeya Mishra, is a 2009-batch IAS officer, while her sister Kanika is based in Dubai. Inspired by her family, Krithika pursued her passion for public service, drawing on her deep connections to UP. An academic prodigy, she graduated in mathematics from Delhi University’s Miranda House and completed a master’s in the subject. Her mathematical acumen aids her in data-driven policymaking and problem-solving as an administrator. Krithika’s personal and professional connection to UP strengthened after marrying Rahul Pandey, a fellow IAS officer, leading to a cadre transfer from Andhra Pradesh. Her upbringing in Prayagraj and her administrative work in UP reflect her deep-rooted commitment to the state. Krithika’s journey is a testament to grit, adaptability, and the power of learning from setbacks. With every initiative, she continues to inspire and make a difference, leaving a legacy of perseverance and excellence. Read on- https://lnkd.in/gcb4d-SQ Writes: Bhakti Kothari #UPSC #UPSCCSE #UPSCAspirants #Motivational #Inspiring #Successstory #IAS #iasofficer

Vennam Anusha’s journey to clearing the UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFS) exam showcases her focused effort and strategic preparation. Born in Bapatla district, Andhra Pradesh, Anusha faced significant hardships, including the loss of her father at a young age. Despite academic struggles and setbacks like failing the IIT JEE exam, she completed her B.Tech in IT from Bapatla Engineering College in 2014. After working in the private sector for 1.5 years, she left her job in 2017 to dedicate herself fully to UPSC preparation. Her attempts at UPSC Civil Services from 2015 to 2021 ended in disappointment, as she narrowly missed clearing various stages. Encouraged by a mentor, she decided to shift her focus to the IFS exam. Appearing for the first time in 2023, she cleared it with an All-India rank of 73, even surpassing the CSAT cutoff by just 0.007 marks. Anusha credits her success to strategic planning, thorough preparation for Mains, and effective time management. She emphasises the importance of understanding optional subjects deeply and aligning study methods with exam requirements. Her advice to aspirants is to have clarity of purpose and prepare with a consistent approach. Anusha’s journey underlines that well-thought-out planning and hard work can help navigate even the toughest challenges. Read on- https://lnkd.in/gb8kZ42Q #upsc #upsccse #upscaspirants #successstory #motivation #inspiring #indiaforestservice #upscpreparation #CSAT

India’s healthcare system came under severe scrutiny during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing stark vulnerabilities. Nearly five years later, are we truly prepared for similar challenges? Few can address this question better than Ms. K. Sujatha Rao, a 1974-batch IAS officer with over two decades of transformative work in the health sector. Ms. Rao, who served as Union Health Secretary, continues to advocate for systemic reforms even after her retirement in 2010. In the memoir A Rear View: Tales of Administration and Diplomacy, she reflects on her journey, sharing lessons from her training at LBSNAA and her early career during the Emergency era. Her experiences range from navigating political pressures in Andhra Pradesh, where she championed loans for marginalized communities, to addressing corruption in nursing colleges and healthcare institutions. At the Centre, she spearheaded reforms in the Medical Council of India and played a pivotal role in establishing six new AIIMS, strengthening India's healthcare infrastructure. Ms. Rao’s leadership during challenging times showcases her unwavering commitment to public service and her belief in equitable healthcare. Her story is a reminder of the resilience and dedication required to drive meaningful change in public administration. https://lnkd.in/gNu_dDfR #KSujataRao #IAS #IASOfficer #IASAssociation

IAS officer Sonia Meena, a 2013 batch officer with an All India Rank of 36, has made her mark in the Madhya Pradesh cadre through fearless governance and unwavering commitment to law and order. Hailing from a bureaucratic family in Rajasthan, Sonia’s journey has been defined by her focus on public welfare and tackling crime, particularly organized mafias. Her career highlights include a bold confrontation with the notorious sand mafia during her tenure as Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Chhattarpur in 2017. Despite threats and physical altercations, Sonia upheld the law, leading to significant penalties and criminal proceedings against offenders. Her firm stand against illegal mining activities earned her recognition as a fearless leader. Sonia has also served in diverse roles, including CEO of District Panchayats in Umaria and Morena, District Collector of Anuppur, and Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Corporation. In Anuppur, she balanced coal mining operations, environmental concerns, and tribal rights. She uncovered fraudulent transfers of tribal lands and swiftly acted to protect marginalized communities. Currently, the District Collector of Narmadapuram, Sonia remains a force against crime, spearheading developmental initiatives while ensuring justice. Her pragmatic yet uncompromising approach to governance has made a lasting impact on the lives of the people she serves. For Sonia, public service goes beyond policies—it’s about creating tangible progress and safeguarding the rights of vulnerable communities. Read on- https://lnkd.in/gmwXhWtK Writes: Bhakti Kothari #SoniaMeena #IAS #IASOfficer #LandMafia #SandMafia #UPSC #IASAssociation

With over three decades of experience in healthcare and having held pivotal roles in the Union Health Ministry, including Secretary, Ms. Kanuru Sujatha Rao has been a relentless advocate for health sector transformation. Even post-retirement in 2010, her commitment to health reforms continues to inspire. In her memoir A Rear View: Tales of Administration and Diplomacy, she reflects on the challenges in India’s healthcare system and offers pragmatic solutions. She firmly believes that "Health for all is possible" with greater political commitment and increased spending, advocating for at least 3% of GDP allocation to healthcare. Ms. Rao emphasizes the importance of strengthening grassroots infrastructure like Primary and Community Health Centres (PHCs/CHCs) over large-scale projects, noting that preventable issues like diarrhea still claim the lives of 8 lakh children annually. She also raises critical concerns about medical education, calling for the closure of 50% of substandard medical colleges producing inadequately trained doctors. While appreciating the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, she highlights the need to address supply-side gaps, especially in underserved regions. Additionally, she sheds light on mental health—a neglected sector affecting 6.5% of Indians—urging structural and financial interventions. Reflecting on COVID-19, she acknowledges India’s efforts but stresses the need for ongoing vigilance against future pandemics. Ms. Rao’s insights are a powerful reminder to rethink and realign our health priorities for a healthier, more equitable India. Watch now- https://lnkd.in/gHi5iw7E #IAS #IASOfficer #KSujataRao #AyushmanBharatYojana

A Landmark Achievement in Wildlife Conservation! In a groundbreaking effort, the Jaldapara Wildlife Division, West Bengal, has set a national record by securing 17 convictions against smugglers in the past year—13 for wildlife crimes and 4 for illegal Burmese timber trafficking. Under the leadership of DFO Parveen Kaswan, the team has delivered a powerful message: wildlife crimes will not go unpunished. With conviction rates in wildlife crimes typically under 5%, this accomplishment stands as a remarkable example of determination and strategic action. Significant victories include the arrest and conviction of notorious rhino poaching kingpin Rikoch Narjari, who was linked to multiple killings in Jaldapara National Park, and James Borogaon, convicted for smuggling a live pangolin. These operations have unraveled transboundary smuggling networks spanning Myanmar, Nepal, Bhutan, China, Bangladesh, and India. “Convictions, not just arrests, are game-changers,” says Kaswan. “Each conviction sends a strong deterrent message and disrupts smuggling networks, protecting endangered species and biodiversity.” This success is a testament to the team's relentless efforts, meticulous intelligence gathering, and inter-agency coordination. It’s a reminder that protecting our wildlife is not just about conservation but also about upholding the rule of law. Let’s celebrate this incredible milestone and continue to support efforts to safeguard our natural heritage! Read on- https://lnkd.in/gduE5pt8 #WildlifeConservation #Sustainability #Leadership #Biodiversity #SuccessStory

The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) commenced in Goa on November 20 and continues till November 28, 2024, celebrating storytelling, innovation, and cultural dialogue. Recognized as South Asia’s premier film festival, it features over 270 films, including 180 international titles from 81 countries, with 16 world premieres and 109 Indian premieres. Emphasizing diversity, the festival highlights 47 films by women directors and 66 by debut filmmakers. The International Competition includes 15 feature films vying for the Golden Peacock Award, while the Indian Panorama segment showcases 45 films reflecting India’s linguistic and cultural richness. Australia, the Country of Focus, presents films like Better Man, and the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award will honor Australian filmmaker Philip Noyce. Film Bazaar (November 20-24), South Asia’s largest film market, expands into series development, addressing the growing OTT sector. It features over 50 series projects and an OTT Award. IFFI promotes young talent through its Creative Minds of Tomorrow initiative, supporting 100 aspiring filmmakers. Accessibility features like audio descriptions and sign language interpretation, eco-friendly practices, and cultural events, including masterclasses with luminaries like A.R. Rahman and Mani Ratnam, enhance the experience. Since 1952, IFFI has been a global platform for cinematic excellence, showcasing culturally significant films and fostering collaborations in the industry. Read on- https://lnkd.in/g-pq9EUk Writes: Muskan Khandelwal #IFFI #FilmBazaar #SouthAsia

Nestled in the Himalayan valleys, Kinnaur is harnessing geothermal energy to transform its horticulture and economy under the leadership of IAS officer Amit Kumar Sharma. The district's first geothermal-controlled atmosphere (CA) storage facility at Tapri, developed in collaboration with Icelandic experts, is set to revolutionize apple and apricot farming. By extending shelf life without chemicals, it enables farmers to sell produce at higher prices, combating market saturation during harvest. This innovation traces back to Vijay, a local researcher whose feasibility study in Iceland showcased geothermal energy's potential in Kinnaur. Success with a geothermal drying unit for apricots further boosted the initiative. Beyond storage, plans for a geothermal spa aim to make Tapri a tourist hub, creating a sustainable economic ecosystem. Kinnaur's organic farming movement, exemplified by Shalkhar Village's chemical-free practices, faces market challenges. Efforts are underway to secure premium pricing for organic produce, aligning with the district's pristine reputation. Geothermal energy is also seen as a solution for winter heating, reducing reliance on kerosene and electricity. Youth development is another priority, with a ₹28 crore sports complex planned to engage and empower young people. With projects spanning agriculture, energy, and tourism, Kinnaur is poised to emerge as a geothermal innovation hub, merging tradition with cutting-edge technology. Under Sharma’s vision, the district is redefining sustainable development, promising a golden future for its residents and economy. Read on- https://lnkd.in/gVvziHi4 Writes: Bhakti Kothari #Kinnaur #GeothermalFacility #CAStorage #Himalaya #Apples #Apricots #Research #IAS #IASOfficer #IASAssociation

Kalanidhi Naithani, currently DIG of Jhansi Range, transitioned from a nuclear scientist to one of India’s most impactful IPS officers. A poetically gifted grandfather named him “Kalanidhi,” meaning “treasure of art,” foreshadowing his versatile future. Raised in the serene mountains by an academic mother and a professor father, his intellectual foundation was solid. After earning a B.Tech in Electronics and Communication, Naithani began his career at the Nuclear Fuel Complex and later C-DOT, excelling for over five years. While in Bengaluru, he aspired to join the Civil Services, studying late at night despite a demanding schedule. In 2010, he cleared the UPSC CSE with AIR 190 and joined the IPS. Known for his strategic and empathetic policing, Naithani initiated impactful operations like rescuing kidnapped children and Operation Khushi, reuniting missing kids with families. His tenure includes bold actions against organized crime, such as booking 30 gangsters in a day. With initiatives like Operation Conviction and Operation Durga, he prioritizes women’s safety, governance in remote areas, and border law enforcement. A passionate sports enthusiast and scholar, Naithani pursued a Master’s in Police Management to sharpen his skills. To aspirants, he emphasizes confidence, time management, and integrating work with studies, showcasing his own remarkable adaptability and purpose-driven career. Read on- https://lnkd.in/gq3azkCd Writes: Muskan Khandelwal #upsc #upsccse #upscaspirants #successstory #ips #ipsofficer #motivation #nuclearscientist #inspiring

Nestled in the lush greenery of Kanger Valley National Park, Dhudmaras, a quaint village in Bastar, has become a global tourism sensation. Recently recognized as India’s Best Tourism Village for Adventure Tourism by the Ministry of Tourism and included in the United Nations Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme 2024, Dhudmaras showcases the transformative power of sustainable tourism. The village offers a unique blend of eco-adventures and cultural immersion. Activities like bamboo rafting, kayaking, trekking, and night camping let visitors explore Bastar’s untouched beauty, while tribal homestays offer an authentic glimpse into the lives of the Dhurwa community. Every element, from the local food to traditional dance performances, reflects the rich tribal heritage. Under the leadership of District Collector Haris S, the initiative has not only boosted tourism but also transformed the local economy. Profits from these activities stay within the community, creating jobs and reducing migration. Neighboring villages are now replicating the model, fostering a regional ripple effect. Despite its achievements, Dhudmaras continues to evolve with guidance from the UN Upgrade Programme, aiming to refine its offerings. From a Naxal-affected region to a beacon of hope and opportunity, Dhudmaras is rewriting Bastar’s story, one adventure at a time. Read on to know more- https://lnkd.in/gZd4VxrU Writes: Bhakti Kothari #Bastar #BastarTourism #Dhudmaras #TourismVillage #AdventureVillage