Dehradun: In a remarkable act of public service and integrity, 2002 batch senior Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer of Uttarakhand cadre, Mr Sanjiv Chaturvedi has donated all tour allowances accrued over nearly nine years to the Uttarakhand Chief Minister Relief Fund.
The total amount, exceeding ₹3 lakh, corresponds to 447 days of official field duty undertaken between December 17, 2016, and August 2025.
Forgoing Allowances for Public Good
In a letter dated April 4 addressed to the Head of Forest Force and endorsed to the Chief Minister’s Office, Chaturvedi stated that he had not claimed any allowances for his extensive field tours over the years. He requested that the entire amount be deposited directly into the relief fund.
Under government rules, officers undertaking official tours outside their headquarters are entitled to daily allowances and establishment charges to cover expenses. However, Chaturvedi chose to forgo these benefits.
He noted that the satisfaction of serving Uttarakhand and conserving its natural heritage has been his greatest reward.
Extensive Work in Remote Himalayan Regions
During his tenure, Chaturvedi undertook numerous challenging tours and treks across some of the most remote and difficult terrains of Uttarakhand.
These include regions such as:
- Milam Glacier
- Har ki Doon
- Mana Pass
- Nelong Valley
- Panchachuli Base Camp
- Hemkund Sahib
- Valley of Flowers
- Lipulekh Pass
His work involved not just inspections but also on-ground conservation efforts in ecologically sensitive zones.
Major Contributions to Biodiversity Conservation
Chaturvedi played a key role in establishing 25 plant conservation centres across the state. He also led efforts to reintroduce endangered Himalayan plant species such as:
- Himalayan Gentian
- Himalayan White Lily
- Golden Himalayan Spike
- Takil Palm
- Indian Spikenard
- Doon Cheesewood
- Himalayan Arnebia
In adition, he contributed to the conservation of several threatened animal species, including:
- Himalayan Marmot
- Mountain Weasel
- Flying Squirrel
- King Cobra
- Finn’s Weaver
He also completed working plans for 7 out of 28 forest divisions, contributing significantly to sustainable forest management.
Recognised by Top Leadership
His conservation initiatives have received appreciation from leaders including Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and former Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar, as well as senior forest officials.
A Legacy of Philanthropy
This is not the first time Chaturvedi has demonstrated such generosity. His past contributions include:
- Donating his Ramon Magsaysay Award prize money to the Prime Minister National Relief Fund after AIIMS Delhi declined to accept it
- Contributing ₹2.5 lakh arbitration fee to a fund for families of CRPF personnel martyred in the Pulwama terror attack
- Donating compensation awarded by the Uttarakhand High Court to the PMNRF
- Giving ₹2.4 lakh from an anti-corruption award to a needy family
A Life of Simplicity and Service
Notably, his Annual Immovable Property Return (IPR) reflects no property ownership in his or his family’s name, underscoring a life rooted in simplicity and public service.
Chaturvedi summed up his philosophy, stating that the true reward lies in serving the state and protecting its natural heritage.
An Example for Public Service
At a time when governance often faces scrutiny, Sanjiv Chaturvedi’s actions stand out as a powerful example of integrity, selflessness, and commitment to public welfare.
His gesture not only contributes financially to relief efforts but also reinforces the values of ethical leadership and dedication in public service.
