In a groundbreaking development that marks a paradigm shift in India’s administrative landscape, the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Association has made history by electing an all-women National Executive Body for the first time. This unprecedented move, decided during the Association’s recent General Body Meeting, makes the IFS Association the first among the 36 organized civil services associations in India to be completely led by women at the national level.
Far beyond symbolism, this moment celebrates competence, inclusivity, and the growing gender diversity in the highest echelons of public administration.
The Moment It Happened: Unplanned but Historic
In conversations with Indian Masterminds, the newly elected members revealed that the formation of the all-women executive team was not pre-planned, but an organic outcome of the selection process.
As the results were being announced, a quiet realization dawned upon the members – they were on the brink of a historic moment. And when the final name was declared, confirming that every position was filled by a woman, the room erupted in joy and pride.
“It wasn’t intentional,” shared Monalisa Dash, Secretary General. “But it reflects the larger change we’re seeing – more and more women are entering and excelling in the forest services.”
The Moment the Last Name Was Announced
Ms Dash explained that the selection process for each post was conducted one by one. Ultimately, when it was revealed that all the elected members were women, it came as a moment of surprise and joy. Celebrations and excitement erupted everywhere, and soon after, discussions about this historic development spread widely.
Meet the Trailblazing Team
The newly elected executive body includes–
- Jyotsna Sitling – Patron
- Anita Karn (1997 batch, Gujarat cadre) – President
- Monalisa Dash (2003 batch, Sikkim cadre) – Secretary General
- Dr. Surbhi Rai (2005 batch) – Joint Secretary
- Suveena Thakur (2014 batch, HP cadre) – Treasurer
- Chestha Singh (2018 batch) – Literary Secretary
These officers bring a diverse range of experience – from policy-making and fieldwork to wildlife conservation and climate change advocacy. Their election represents more than just gender diversity; it showcases a shift toward inclusive, balanced, and forward-thinking leadership.
Silent Strength and Bold Vision: Voices from the Team
Jyotsna Sitling – Patron
A trailblazer herself, IFS Sitling emphasized humility and hard work. “I want to keep a low profile and work hard,” she said, declining to overplay the historic nature of the event but acknowledging its quiet significance.
Monalisa Dash – Secretary General
IFS Dash was candid about the organic nature of the selection. “This was not done thinking it would be an all-women’s team,” she noted. “Officers were selected unanimously, based on merit and vision.”
Speaking passionately about their mission, she added, “Sustainability is our top priority. Growth is important for any society, but not at the cost of the environment. Every species has the right to coexist. We are here to ensure that balance is maintained.”
IFS Dash further said, “I personally feel this is a very good move because, in our forest sector, many women have started joining. If you look at the current recruitment trends, there is a significant increase in women’s participation.
This development is a natural step in that direction. Over time, women’s involvement in the service has grown, and this reflects that change. Our peers also chose us unanimously. We will give our best, address key issues, and work towards improving the organization.”
Dr Surbhi Rai – Joint Secretary
Speaking with Indian Masterminds, Dr Rai said, “I am an officer first and then a woman. By chance, we all won. Of course, it sends a positive message to society, but we will work with the same sincerity and dedication as previous members. We are forest officers first, and after that, our gender doesn’t come into play. In the workplace, I have never felt that my gender matters. I have done the same work as my male colleagues. There is no difference because we are women.”
When asked if there was an election or if everyone was unanimously elected, she replied, “Unanimously. It was a unanimous decision. Everyone voted for it. One member was decided, then the second, and gradually everyone warmed up to the idea. It wasn’t about pitching names; it was a unanimous selection. We had no idea this would happen.”
“Actually, our association is very tight-knit and united, so there is rarely a need for an election. In all the time I’ve been in the association, I have never seen dissent. Everyone agrees with this decision, and to date, I have not seen any opposition,” she added.
Securing a Sustainable Future
When Indian Masterminds asked about the future course of action, the women members of the new team unanimously explained, “It’s not about men or women. First and foremost, we are officers. Our mandate is to raise awareness about India’s environment and forests. In the environmental and forestry sector, India must pursue holistic growth and sustainable development, which is urgently needed for the well-being of the earth and society. Sustainability is our most important task, and we are fully committed to working towards that goal.”
“Growth is essential for any society or country, but along with growth, the environment and wildlife have equal rights. It is not only humans who inhabit this earth. Therefore, it is our responsibility to maintain a balance among all living beings,” IFS Dash said.
More Than a Milestone: A Model for the Future
This development is a powerful symbol of gender equity in India’s civil services. With women holding the reins of a crucial All India Service for the first time, the IFS Association sets a new precedent that could inspire other services to embrace diverse and merit-based leadership.
At its core, this is not about gender. As Dash emphasized, “We are officers first. Our mandate is to protect forests and wildlife, and promote sustainable development.”
IFS: Stewards of India’s Natural Wealth
The Indian Forest Service plays a pivotal role in managing and protecting the nation’s vast forest resources, biodiversity, and wildlife. As the country grapples with the dual challenge of economic growth and environmental sustainability, the IFS officers are on the frontline, shaping India’s green future.
Having an all-women team at the helm of this mission reinforces the belief that leadership comes from capability and vision – not gender.
A Quiet Revolution Begins
The election of an all-women executive body in the IFS Association is more than a first; it is a reflection of a changing India, where women are not just participants but leaders of transformation.
By embracing inclusivity, balance, and sustainability, this team isn’t just making history – they are shaping the future of India’s environmental stewardship.
