Sushil Kumar Awasthi, an Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer of the 1991 batch from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has reached the pinnacle of his career with his appointment as the Director General of Forests & Special Secretary (DGF&SS), MoEF&CC, New Delhi. This prestigious position places him at the helm of forest governance and policy-making in India, reflecting his decades of dedication to environmental conservation and forestry management.
A CAREER DEFINED BY LEADERSHIP AND EXPERTISE
Throughout his career, Awasthi has held several key positions, displaying exceptional leadership in forestry and wildlife management. Prior to his current role, he served as Additional Director General in the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC), contributing to national environmental policies and conservation strategies.
His career trajectory includes significant tenures in both administrative and academic capacities. He was an Additional Professor at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA) during 2011-12and later served as Additional Director at IGNFA, shaping the next generation of IFS officers with his expertise and experience.
EXPERIENCES ACROSS MULTIPLE DOMAINS
Awasthi’s extensive field experience has been instrumental in driving impactful forestry initiatives. His previous assignments include:
- Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), UP, where he played a pivotal role in wildlife conservation and conflict management.
- Regional Manager, UP Forest Corporation (UPFC), overseeing sustainable forestry operations.
- Conservator of Forests, Meerut Circle, UP Forest Department, ensuring effective forest management.
- DFO (Divisional Forest Officer) in multiple regions, including Bareilly, Raduan, Etah (Social Forestry Division), and South Pilibhit.
- IFS (Probationer) at IGNFA, Dehradun, marking the beginning of his distinguished journey in forest administration.
SPECIALISATION AND CONTRIBUTIONS
Awasthi’s work spans several critical areas in forestry and environmental conservation. His areas of specialization include:
- Wildlife Management and Conflict Resolution – Developing strategies to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.
- Forest Certification – Ensuring sustainable forestry practices.
- Urban Forestry – Implementing tall planting techniques to enhance green cover in urban areas.
- Afforestation of Alkaline and Saline Soils – Pioneering efforts to reclaim degraded land through innovative afforestation methods.
ACADEMIC AND SCIENTIFIC BACKGROUND
With an M.Sc. in Chemistry and an AIGNFA qualification, Awasthi brings a scientific approach to forestry. His research and academic contributions have been crucial in developing innovative solutions for forest conservation and management.
A PASSION FOR SPORTS AND BEYOND
Beyond his professional commitments, Awasthi has a keen interest in cricket and tennis, balancing his administrative duties with his love for sports. His passion for physical fitness and outdoor activities complements his career in forestry, reinforcing his deep connection with nature.
LEADERSHIP IN INDIAN FORESTRY
Now occupying the highest post in the Indian Forest Service, Sushil Kumar Awasthi’s leadership is expected to shape the future of forest conservation in India. His vast experience, deep technical knowledge, and strategic vision make him a key figure in policy-making, biodiversity protection, and sustainable forestry. As he takes on this significant role, his focus remains on strengthening India’s forests, enhancing wildlife conservation efforts, and promoting sustainable environmental policies for future generations.
As Director General of Forests, Sushil Kumar Awasthi now holds the apex position in India’s forest department. His journey from an IFS probationer to leading the country’s environmental and forestry policies is an inspiring testament to dedication, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to conservation.
With his vast experience, specialized knowledge, and vision for sustainable forestry, Awasthi is expected to steer India’s forest management towards greater environmental sustainability and wildlife conservation. His leadership will be crucial in addressing challenges such as deforestation, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change adaptation, ensuring a greener and more ecologically balanced future for India.
