Jyotsna Sitling, an exemplary IFS officer hailing from a tribal background, has earned acclaim for her dedication to environmental conservation. Her pivotal role in safeguarding the Nanda Devi Biosphere from pollution and rallying locals in the Doon Valley to combat erosion highlights her commitment. She fostered profound community engagement by visiting every household with a simple yet powerful gesture—a towel to collect soil as a pledge for tree planting.
Through her compassionate approach, she instilled a sense of ownership and ritualistic dedication among villagers, making the plantation a revered tradition. Sitling emphasizes the indispensable role of community support in environmental preservation. In an exclusive interview with Indian Masterminds, she elucidated on her strategies for community collaboration, the challenges confronting Indian Forest Services officers, and the significance of individual contributions towards ecological sustainability.

She points out that despite their invaluable contributions to environmental conservation, Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers often face significant challenges due to inadequate support from both the government and the public. The lack of sufficient resources, including manpower, equipment, and funding, hinders their ability to effectively address pressing environmental issues. Moreover, the public’s limited awareness and engagement regarding environmental concerns can undermine the efforts of IFS officers, as widespread support and participation are crucial for successful conservation endeavors.

Watch the interview here: