Indian bureaucracy serves as a linchpin in the governance machinery, ensuring the effective implementation of development programs and their reach to citizens. The grassroots innovations of bureaucrats play a pivotal role in the successful delivery of welfare programs, leading to tangible improvements in the lives of the people.

At Bureaucrats India, our unwavering commitment has been to celebrate and highlight stories of good governance, recognising the relentless efforts of bureaucrats who work diligently to roll out government programs. 'The 23 Innovators of 2023: Top Grassroots Performers in Indian Bureaucracy' is a tribute to this commitment. It is our endeavour to spotlight officers whose innovative initiatives have resulted in transformative changes, reinforcing the public's trust in bureaucracy.

This list is meticulously prepared based on information available in the public domain and the performance of these bureaucrats. While we acknowledge that there may be many deserving officers whom we might have missed, it in no way means we do not appreciate their valuable contributions. Bureaucrats India remains dedicated to bringing forth stories of innovation and positive change initiated by bureaucrats, ensuring their commendable efforts continue to inspire and foster progress.

1. Charu Sinha (IPS), IGP, Southern Sector, CRPF

Charu Sinha, an IPS officer of 1996-batch of Telangana cadre, is currently serving as the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Southern Sector, CRPF, at Hyderabad. She holds the distinction of being the first woman posted as IG in the CRPF's southern sector. Sinha's notable career achievements include a stint in the UN peacekeeping force in Kosovo, where she effectively managed the professional services unit. She became the first woman officer to assume leadership roles in four CRPF sectors, demonstrating her exceptional skills.

In her role as IGP in Srinagar, she led 69 anti-insurgency operations and also anti-Maoist operations in the Bihar sector. Beyond her operational achievements, Sinha initiated the 'Love you Zindagi' campaign, addressing mental health and gender issues. These initiatives earned her the FICCI Smart Policing Award in 2022.

2. Sabya Sachi Raman Mishra (IPS), IGP, Counter Insurgency Force, West Bengal

Sabya Sachi Raman Mishra is a 2004 batch IPS officer, borne on West Bengal cadre. He is currently posted as Inspector General of Police, Counter Insurgency Force, WB. An alumnus of Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Mishra has a wide range of experience that spreads from journalism to academics to policing. He has worked for the Telegraph newspaper published from Kolkata. He also worked on the faculty of Indian School of Mines, Dhanbad where he taught History of science to the Undergraduate and Postgraduate students.

In his capacity as senior police officer, Mishra has served as Superintendent of Police of districts like Nadia, Howrah (Rural) and Birbhum apart from SP Railways, Sealdah. He has supervised multiple police units, like CID, Metropolitan police and now the Counter Insurgency Force of WB.

3. Veerendra Mishra (IPS), Assistant IGP, Madhya Pradesh State Industrial Security Force

Veerendra Mishra is a 2006-batch IPS officer of Madhya Pradesh cadre. In his over two decades of service, he is known to have addressed issues like human trafficking, supporting transgender rights and fostering youth development. He is currently serving as Assistant Inspector General of Police in the Madhya Pradesh State Industrial Security Force. Mishra earlier had held key positions in organisations like the National Institute of Social Defence and Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan.

One of his most major initiatives involved empowering nomadic tribal Bedia girls. In 2002, he founded ‘Samvedna’, which rescued Bedia girls and since then has been providing education to them. Over 15 years, this initiative has transformed the lives of 5,000 youngsters in 60 Bedia-dominated villages. Mishra's empathy towards the Bedia girls, showcases his deep commitment to making a positive change and offering hope through education.

4. Prabhakar (IAS), Managing Director, Bihar State Co-operative Milk Producers’ Federation Ltd (COMPFED)

Prabhakar, an IAS officer of 2007-batch, has been at the forefront of numerous development-oriented projects in Bihar. He originally belongs to the Sikkim cadre, and on inter-cadre deputation, he has been serving in Bihar. Currently serving as the Managing Director of Bihar State Co-operative Milk Producers’ Federation Ltd. (COMPFED), Prabhakar is spearheading digital initiatives aimed at bringing about a transformative change in the organisation. As MD of Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation, he leased out tourist properties that led to their better management and boost in revenue. He ensured availability of essential amenities and also spruced up infrastructure for the development of Amwaman Adventure Water Sports facility in West Champaran district. His commitment to enhancing tourism and recreational opportunities showcases his dedication to the industry that is the largest employment generator. 

Previously as the MD of North Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd (NBPDCL), Prabhakar steered successful implementation of Smart Prepaid Meters across districts of North Bihar. This initiative not only modernised the power distribution system but also laid the foundation for efficient resource management. Having served as the Special Secretary in the Bihar State Planning Board, Prabhakar exhibited a well-rounded and dynamic approach to governance. His rich and diverse experience underscores his commitment to fostering growth, innovation and sustainable development in the regions he has served.

5. Dr Sarveshwar Bhure (IAS), Secretary, Chhattisgarh State Election Commission 

Dr Sarveshwar Narendra Bhure, belonging to Chhattisgarh cadre, is a 2011-batch IAS officer. He is currently serving as Secretary, Chhattisgarh State Election Commission. Prior to his current role, Bhure had served in the capacity of Collector in Mungeli, Durg and Raipur districts. In Durg district, Bhure received commendation for implementing stringent measures to control the spread of COVID-19. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he had executed the ‘Padhai Tuhar Dwar’ program in Raipur district to ensure uninterrupted education for children. This effort to provide online education to children during pandemic garnered attention at both the state and national levels.

Through the intervention of Bhure, Tulsi village in Raipur district is recognised as a ‘YouTuber Village’. The district administration established ‘Hamar FLIX’ in the village, equipped with modern facilities like high-end computers, drone cameras and advanced studios. In August 2023, he initiated the ‘Nava Gurukul’ residential school providing free coding training to 200 girls from economically deprived backgrounds.

Under his leadership, women took charge of the entire voting process across 201 booths in the Raipur North Assembly seat in Chhattisgarh. In India’s democratic history, this initiative is first of its kind.

6. Santosh Singh (IPS), SP Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh

Santosh Singh is an Indian Police Service officer of 2011 IPS batch, Chhattisgarh cadre. In his career, Singh has served in various capacities, including SP in districts like Bilaspur, Korba, Rajnandgaon, Korea, Raigarh, Mahasamund, Narayanpur, and Kondagaon. He has also served as ASP in Sukma and CSP in Durg. Santosh has received accolades for his initiatives, including the Champions of Change award by the Vice-President for Child-Friendly Policing in Mahasamund district. His contributions were further recognized with the FICCI Smart Policing award and the India Police Award for the 'Samvedana' campaign in Raigarh district.

Internationally, Singh has been selected for the prestigious IACP award by the International Association of Chiefs of Police organization in America, acknowledging his 'Nijaat' campaign, a de-addiction drive. The campaign has also been recognised as one of the 30 best smart policing initiatives by BPR&D, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. Santosh set a world record in Raigarh for the highest mask distribution in a day, with 12.37 lakh masks. Additionally, he achieved another world record for the highest number of children trained in self-defense in Mahasamund.

Singh completed both his graduation and post-graduation from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, where he not only topped his university in graduation but also earned a gold medal during post-graduation. He holds the distinction of qualifying the UGC NET-JRF examination and pursued M.Phil from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in New Delhi, focusing on International Relations. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. on the working of United Nations Peacebuilding.

7. Kuldeep K R Jain (IPS), DCP, Bangalore City East Division (Traffic)

Kuldeep Kumar R Jain, a 2011-batch IPS officer of the Karnataka cadre, currently serves as the DCP, Bangalore City East Division (Traffic). 

Earlier, as Police Commissioner of Mangaluru City, he showed resolute stance against corruption and gave special focus on enhancing public safety through stringent measures against traffic violations.

Under Jain's leadership, Mangaluru City witnessed a transformative approach to traffic management. He addressed parking issues by implementing parallel parking enforcement and introducing punitive measures such as wheel clamps, streamlining the city's parking system. The implementation of the Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS) demonstrates his commitment to leveraging technology for improved road safety, aiming to automate 20 junctions.

Jain's innovative measures include the introduction of four Cobra two-wheeler traffic patrol vehicles, enhancing the efficiency of addressing traffic concerns. Moreover, he has actively involved the community in traffic management initiatives, launching programs like the Phone-in Program and Traffic Connectivity Day, seeking valuable suggestions from the public for continuous improvement.

Recognising the importance of constructive dialogues, Jain has engaged with college managements to address traffic challenges near educational institutions. This holistic approach reflects his commitment to community-oriented policing and the well-being of the residents.

8. Rajat Bansal (IAS), Commissioner of Commerce Tax (GST), Chhattisgarh 

A 2012 batch IAS officer Bansal is incredibly innovative and passionate about people. Currently he is posted as Commissioner of Commerce Tax (GST) with an additional charge of Director, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin, Chhatisgarh. He has previously served as Commissioner, MGNREGA; District Magistrate, Bastar; Collector Baloda Bazar; Municipal Commissioner, Raipur.

As District Magistrate of Bastar, Chhattisgarh, he started a unique campaign called ‘Aamcho Bastar,’ which means ‘Hamara Bastar’ in Hindi. Through this unique campaign, he tried to bring people-powered development in the region by building the brand ‘Bastar.’ Similarly, his initiative Yuvodaya, a two-way community mobilization program was organised in order to bridge the gap between the administration and the citizens. Around 5000 volunteers communicate the message and the work of the district administration to the people. With the help of these volunteers, the percentage of people availing different services like education, nutrition grew manifold. To push entrepreneurship among the small start-up in the region, he started THINK-B (Technology Hub and Innovation Network for Knowledge Bastar), an innovative initiative to encourage the youth of Bastar interested in innovation, self-employment and entrepreneurship, besides providing them necessary assistance including financial, technical, managerial, and legal. Currently 18 Startups are working having turnover of Rs 5 crore and generating employment for 500+ youngsters. He also started BADAL (Bastar Academy of Dance, Art and Language) whose purpose is to protect and preserve traditions and culture of tribals. BADAL will act as a one-stop centre for people who wish to come and gain knowledge about Bastar.

As District Magistrate and Collector of Baloda Bazar, he initiated the 'Anjor Program' to spread awareness about the importance of education and mental awareness in the community. Bansal also established State's first cutting-edge open-air memorial honouring Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh. The memorial offers audio books and art containing the life and glory of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh in three languages.

As DM Dhamtari, he helped in transforming a tiny tribal hamlet into a sustainable Eco-Tourism Wellness Hub for Jabarra village by ensuring Community Forest Reserve Rights. As a result, the village witnessed tourists from all over the world, including Poland, Australia and Japan.

9. Vinit Nandanwar (IAS), Joint Secretary, Government of Chhattisgarh

Vinit Nandanwar is an Indian Administrative Service Officer of the 2013-batch borne on Chhattisgarh cadre. Currently a Joint Secretary in Chhattisgarh government, Nandanwar is known as an officer with penchant for reforms and innovations. 

During his tenure as Sukma District Collector Nandanwar extensively toured on motorcycles, reaching out to people educating them on government initiatives and running campaigns to raise awareness about health among youth trapped in the clutches of addiction. His efforts garnered praise at the state-level. In the field of education, he initiated changes in the ‘Choolo Aasman’ government scheme, launching the ‘Second Chance’ program.

As Dantewada DC, Nandanwar took a special initiative to prepare tribal children in the district for JEE and NEET exams. He provided a second opportunity to drop out children. This ground-breaking effort resulted in 64 students from Chhoo Lo Aasman Karli and Balod organisations taking competitive exams. Out of 64, 47 students successfully cracked various exams. He also initiated the construction of the Danteshwari Corridor. He initiated the Atulya Dantewada Project, which included tourism development ventures like riverfronts and corridors. To address land-related disputes, he launched the ‘Nidaan Shivir’ campaign, engaging directly with the communities through camps and local initiatives, which has positively impacted the lives of over 16,000 individuals, resolving caste-based identity issues, facilitating Haj pilgrimages for 200 more people, and resolving numerous revenue matters. Hailing from Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, he completed his education in government schools. Nandanwar has also served as Additional Collector in Raipur.

10. Sonia Meena (IAS), DM, Narmadapuram, MP

Sonia Meena is a 2013-batch IAS officer of Madhya Pradesh cadre. She is currently serving as the District Collector & Magistrate, Narmadapuram. She has also served as ADM, Umaria and Chief Executive Officer of Zila Panchayat.

She is the first collector of Mauganj district, which is the 53rd district of Madhya Pradesh. Meena has actively promoted tourism in the State, organising various competitions and activities. Activities such as travelogue, painting, and online quiz competitions engaged over 52,000 students, fostering awareness of the state's rich history, traditions and tourism potential. She is known for her resolute actions against illegal sand mining in Rajnagar, Chhatarpur district SDM. Her investigation had led to the arrest of a big mining mafia ringleader.

11. Dr Nawal Kishore Choudhary (IAS), DM, Bhagalpur, Bihar

Dr. Nawal Kishore Choudhary is a 2013 batch IAS Officer, serving in the Bihar cadre. Currently, he holds the position of District Magistrate in Bhagalpur, Bihar. He was previously posted as the District Magistrate of Gopalganj.

During his tenure as the District Magistrate of Gopalganj, Choudhary introduced the 'Gopalganj Ka Gaurav' app, offering residents a platform to share ideas and opinions on local development. The app serves as a one-stop platform for district-related information, connecting residents of the district from various locations across the world. Additionally, he initiated the recognition of individuals bringing pride to the district by awarding them.

Choudhary also launched 'Pusktak Daan Mahaviyaan' to promote reading and help people have better access to books in Gopalganj. He flagged off a vehicle service to collect books, magazines and notebooks of successful candidates. These books were especially useful for students preparing for competitive examinations. 

Under Choudhary's leadership, the Gopalganj district administration supported farmers in adopting commercial farming in mushrooms through collaborations with banks and NABARD.

12. Raghvendra Singh (IAS), District Collector, Agar Malwa, Madhya Pradesh

Raghvendra Singh, a 2013-batch IAS officer of Madhya Pradesh cadre, is presently serving as the District Collector of Agar Malwa. Holding a B.Sc in Physics and MA/MPhil degrees in Political Science from JNU, he recently authored '615 Poorvanchal Hostel’ in Hindi, providing insights into the intricacies of student’s life.

As the District Collector of Alirajpur, Singh introduced healthcare initiatives, notably ‘Operation Smile’ and ‘Netrajyoti Abhiyan’. ‘Operation Smile’ revolves around dental care , especially designed to provide dentures to elderly people without teeth, to restore their self-confidence. This initiative not only addresses oral health issues but also contributes to overall improvement in health standards within these communities. 'Netrajyoti Abhiyan' focused on performing cataract operations for the elderly population in these districts. By ensuring timely and accessible eyecare services, the initiative has played a crucial role in enhancing vision and significantly improving the quality of life for senior citizens. As DM of Alirajpur, Singh also launched Narmada Gyaan Kendra initiative to provide educational facility for students preparing for competitive examinations. This was focussed scaling up education infrastructure for competitive examination especially for tribal girls who were unable to go out of the district for preparation. The coaching and library facilities helped many students. 

13. Manish Bansal (IAS), District Magistrate and Collector Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh

Manish Bansal, a 2014-batch IAS officer, currently serves as the District Magistrate and Collector in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. 

With a career spanning over 9 years, Bansal has held key administrative positions, showcasing a commitment to public service. He served as the Municipal Commissioner in Meerut, where the city witnessed significant progress in sanitation, earning the 1st rank as the Fastest Mover Big City in Swachh Survekshan 2022.

In his current role as District Magistrate and Collector in Sambhal, Bansal initiated a unique and impactful campaign against single-use plastic. Through monthly funeral processions, the district bids farewell to single-use plastic, symbolising a collective effort to create awareness and bring about behavioural change. Under his leadership, the district has collected 275 quintals of plastic, demonstrating a commitment to environmental conservation. Beyond awareness campaigns, Bansal is spearheading an enforcement drive and exploring opportunities to convert plastic waste into useful products. Collaborating with companies that recycle waste plastic, the administration aims not only to create wealth from waste but also to send a powerful message about responsible waste management.

His river rejuvenation work in Sambhal has been mentioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Mann Ki Baat episode. He has also been given Jal Prahari Award 2023 by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India.

14. Sushant Gaurav (IAS), Director, Sports, Jharkhand

Sushant Gaurav, a 2014-batch IAS officer of Jharkhand cadre, is currently serving as the Director, Sports, Jharkhand 

As DC Gumla, Gaurav has taken several initiatives to create livelihood opportunities for people. Faced with challenges like Naxal insurgency and over-dependency on Paddy crops, Gaurav initiated Mission Ragi, encouraging farmers, especially women, to shift from water-intensive paddy to Ragi cultivation. The Ragi cultivation began on mission mode on around 1600 acres of land. Farmers were given high-quality seeds and were being trained on how to effectively do the cultivation. A Ragi Processing Centre, handled by women from Self Help groups, was set up. With his able management and leadership, output increased by 300 percent. Leveraging the nutritional benefits of Ragi, he addressed anaemia and malnutrition, emphasising holistic community welfare. Gaurav has also been awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration for his work in transforming Gumla from a poverty-stricken district into the ’Ragi Capital of India. 

As DC Gumla, he divided 1,153 families involved in bamboo work into eight clusters and set up a Bamboo Craft Development Centre for each. This initiative helped in increasing the livelihood of these families.

15. Rohit Rajbir Singh (IPS), SP, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh

Rohit Rajbir Singh, a 2015-batch IPS officer of the AGMUT cadre, is currently serving as Superintendent of Police, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh. He has previously served as Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Delhi.

In 2023, Singh represented India as the Member Delegate in the 3rd Interpol Young Global Police Leaders Programme, themed on trust. This international platform allowed him to exchange ideas and experiences with global counterparts, contributing to the collective knowledge of law enforcement strategies.

As head of Arunachal Pradesh Special Investigation Team (SIT) Superintendent, Singh along with Changlang District Superintendent of Police Mihin Gambu destroyed a camp of Naga militants in Changlang district near the Indo-Myanmar border in February 2023. The Arunachal Pradesh police launched the operation after receiving a tip-off that rebels Eastern Naga National Government (ENNG) had captured a camp in the Lungpang area of Rima Putok circle in Changlang near the Indo-Myanmar border. Singh’s career demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact on the community and the nation.

16. V R Krishna Teja (IAS), District Collector, Thrissur, Kerala

VR Krishna Teja, a 2015-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre, currently serves as the District Collector of Thrissur, Kerala. His tenure has been marked by notable contributions, particularly during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Kerala floods, where Teja successfully and effectively geared administrative apparatus to ensure effective public service.

During Operation Kuttanad, Teja's proactive response was evident as he successfully evacuated two lakh flood-affected individuals within a mere 48 hours. His leadership extended beyond immediate crisis management, ensuring comprehensive rehabilitation for those affected by the floods. His initiative 'Together for Thrissur' is supporting education of children orphaned by pandemic Covid 19. More than 600 students have been provided assistance till date. Earlier as DC Alappuzha, he started Alleppey-Orupidi Nanma initiative encouraging students to donate food and other essentials, except rice and cash, within their capacities to economically disadvantaged families.

Teja also served as the Managing Director of the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC). Under his leadership, significant improvements were achieved, and Hotel Mascot attained a prestigious five-star status. Teja won the Best District Election Officer Award 2024 on National Voters Day.

17. Rahul Deo (IAS), District Collector, Mungeli, Chhattisgarh

Rahul Deo, a 2016-batch IAS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre is currently serving as the District Collector of Mungeli. He addressed the challenge of unemployment in the district through his innovative project 'Akanksha'. Launched in August 2022 with the motto ‘Sashakt Yuva, Sashakt Mungeli’, the project aimed at empowering local youths with ample employment opportunities. It provided a platform to youth where they can get jobs matching their skills. 

The 'Akanksha' initiative has garnered success by facilitating connections between prospective employers and talented youngsters. Around 1,600 youth have been placed till now.

Multiple departments, including the National Informatics Centre, have collaborated to provide effective support, utilising digital formats, a district call centre, and Google links with QR codes for maximum outreach. Deo's proactive approach and dedication have not only addressed local youth’s unemployment but have also set the foundation for future career opportunities.

The success of the Mungeli model has led to its replication in other districts of the state, showcasing the impact of effective leadership and community-focused initiatives.

18. Arnav Shivendu (IRAS), DFM Jaipur, Indian Railways

Arnav Shivendu, an officer of the Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS) from the 2018 exam batch, brings a unique blend of technical expertise and administrative skills to the public service domain. Arnav holds a B. Tech degree in Computer Science from Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, graduating in 2015 with a research paper in the domain of Computer Networks published in International Journal of Computer Applications (IJCA), Volume 116/ Number 1.

Before venturing into the realm of civil services, Shivendu gained valuable experience as a Full Stack Software Developer at Dell International, showcasing his proficiency in the dynamic field of software development from 2015 to 2017.

In his current role within the Indian Railway, Shivendu has served in pivotal positions within the North Western Railway. He commenced his journey as Assistant Divisional Financial Manager (ADFM) in Ajmer Division, contributing to the financial management and administration of this significant railway division with a special focus on domain of Pensions serving 18, 000 Pensioners of Ajmer Division comprising both Old Pension (OPS) and National Pension Scheme (NPS). This involved multitude of activities including Pay Commission and Dearness Allowance revision and proactive and responsive execution of Grievance Redressal Mechanisms via PNM (Permanent Negotiating Machinery), CP-GRAM (Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System) and RTI (Right to Information) Act, 2005.

During his spare time, he spends time analysing Defence and National Security matters. He authored a classified document in January, 2023 containing Joint Doctrinal level National Security inputs highlighting the centrality of Indian Railway as an instrument of diplomacy and war.

Also, he is a practicing Logistician and worked tactically to promote Integration and Jointness as a Proof of Concept by designing and developing a Train Based troop mobilisation War Plan to deter 2.5 front war dilemma.
 
Subsequently, Shivendu took on the responsibilities of Divisional Financial Manager (DFM) in Jaipur Division, North Western Railway, demonstrating his commitment to the efficient functioning of railway finances and operations.

He has a penchant for Urdu poetry, theatre and film making and has a cameo appearance in an indie short film, "Riha" based on Director's autobiographical account of his mother's struggle against the social dilemma of Triple Talaq. 

Shivendu's professional trajectory reflects his commitment to public service, combining his technological background with administrative roles in the Indian Railway. His journey exemplifies the diverse talents contributing to the efficiency and modernisation of critical public services and National Security in sync with the whole of nation approach.

19. Shubham Gupta (IAS), Chief Executive Officer, Zilla Parishad, Dhule, Maharashtra

Shubham Gupta, a 2019-batch IAS officer of Maharashtra cadre, is presently the Chief Executive Officer at Zilla Parishad, Dhule. A TEDx speaker, he pursued his Masters in Economics from Delhi School of Economics.

As Assistant Collector, Etapalli & Project Officer, Integrated Tribal Development Project - Bhamragad, Gadchiroli, Gupta undertook many transformative initiatives, including bike ambulances, mobile science laboratories, AI-based nutrition monitoring, blockchain-based caste certificates, and carbon credit-based agroforestry. 

Gupta used AI to monitor the health of girl students in a project through the startup Udyog Yantra. Through a tie-up with Feeding India by Zomato, the health of girl students was monitored leveraging AI. After careful study and analysis of data, menu compliance was ensured for the students and improvement was found in the health of girl students in the Ashram School in a period of three months.

Gupta is also a prolific writer, having recently published his first book ‘UPSC Files’. His use of artificial intelligence to bring transparency and efficacy in governance is truly remarkable.

20. Himanshu Nagpal (IAS), Chief Development Officer, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Himanshu Nagpal, a 2019-batch IAS officer of UP Cadre is currently the Chief Development Officer (CDO) of Varanasi. He has previously served as Joint Magistrate, Kanpur Nagar; SDM Jaunpur; SDM Gangoh; Assistant Collector, Saharanpur; OSD, Saharanpur Development Authority.

Excelling with his innovative programs, Nagpal has been at the forefront of some unique initiatives. Nagpal started a campaign called 'Mission Muskaan’ to identify lost and destitute children on railway stations and ghats of Varanasi. With the help of 12 rescue teams, Nagpal has successfully reunited over 780 lost children with their families. He launched ‘Bulava Abhiyan’ to address low attendance in schools. This significantly improved school attendance in Varanasi, raising it from below 40% to 80%, setting a state record.

His another initiative 'Bhikshavriti Mukt Kashi' addresses the begging issues near sacred places, providing shelter, skill training, and leveraging government programs to make Varanasi beggar-free. Under another 'Mission Padhaku' initiative, around 130 vacant houses have been converted into digital libraries for imparting IT skills to students and Self-Help Groups. Impressed by this, Government of India has funded another such 356 digital libraries in gram panchayats, which shall be known as PM Libraries

21. Anukriti Sharma (IPS), ASP, Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh

Anukriti Sharma is an Indian Police Service officer from the 2020 batch currently serving as Assistant Superintendent of Police in Bulandshahr. She stands out as a driving force for positive change. With a science background from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, she made the bold choice of leaving her position of PhD scholar at Rice University, USA, where she was doing research on volcanoes. 

Sharma spearheaded an impactful community outreach initiative – Police-My Friend, strengthening police-community relations and tackling pressing issues like drugs, crimes against children and women, and cybercrimes. Among her significant accomplishments, she brought light to an elderly woman's life by resolving her long-standing electricity issues. Additionally, Sharma successfully led an innovative murder investigation, utilising forensic odontology to analyse bite marks, successfully dismantled a notorious satta syndicate, and tackling the land mafia in Bulandshahr, a high profile organized criminal gang, which had been operating for more than a decade. As a staunch advocate for gender equality, she is trying to make police institutions more gender friendly by giving equal opportunities to female staff, setting up child friendly rooms in police stations, among others. Her steadfast dedication and results-oriented approach exemplify her commitment to public service and community welfare.

22. Siva Gopal Reddy (IAS), SDO, Kawnpui, Kolasib, Mizoram

Siva Gopala Reddy, IAS officer of 2020-batch from the AGMUT cadre is posted as SDO Kawnpui, Kolasib district, Mizoram.

Reddy has embarked on a transformative endeavor aimed at reshaping the lives of young Manipuri children residing in shelter camps in Kawnpui, Kolasib district. In his commitment to restoring normalcy in the lives of these children, Reddy has implemented small yet impactful measures. These include ensuring proper education within the camps, repurposing village council houses and government buildings into relief facilities, and constructing makeshift toilets. Reddy’s efforts include provision of essential resources, such as books, color pencils, and educational materials, coupled with toys and games, enriching the learning environment for the children. Additionally, he has extended counseling services to address the emotional challenges faced by these children. Through these dedicated efforts, Reddy has made a positive impact on the lives of thousands of children.

23. Vishakha Yadav (IAS), ADC, Tirap, Arunachal Pradesh

Vishakha Yadav, an Indian Administrative Service Officer from the 2020 Batch of AGMUT - JnK cadre, is currently posted as the Additional Deputy Commissioner in Tirap district, Arunachal Pradesh. A Software Engineering graduate from Delhi College of Engineering, she brings a unique blend of technical expertise and administrative acumen to her role. Prior to joining the civil services, she worked for two years at CISCO Systems Pvt Ltd in Bangalore. Furthermore, her exceptional qualifications led to her selection for the MBA program at IIM Bangalore.

During her tenure as Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Rural Development, Yadav's team had the honor of presenting their project, "Matribhoomi - the mega governance solution," in front of Honorable Prime Minister.

One of her noteworthy initiatives as ADC Deomali, Arunachal Pradesh, is "Adhyayan: The Learning Pavilion." This innovative project aims to revolutionise learning pedagogy by offering state-of-the-art facilities and modern technology, providing free education and fostering the growth of young minds, especially those underprivileged. The Learning Centre cum library boasts a collection of over 4500+ books spanning various genres, with a special focus on children's literature.

Yadav has also spearheaded the groundbreaking project "Digi-Kaksha," introducing a sustainable smart school - a first-of-its-kind initiative in any government school in Arunachal Pradesh. This project includes a 4K HD Interactive Android teaching board designed for immersive teaching and learning experiences. Featuring customised pre-loaded creative learning content for classes Nursery to XII, aligned with CBSE and ICSE curricula, Digi-Kaksha prioritises inclusivity. The content is tailored for slow and average learners, incorporating virtual experiments, PhET simulations, and interactive question banks. Following the BALA (Building as a Learning Aid) model, Digi-Kaksha aims to facilitate active learning and ensure equitable access, thereby democratising the education system.