Raipur: Dr. Priyanka Shukla, a 2009-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Chhattisgarh cadre, has recently made headlines with her appointment as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ‘Mera Yuva Bharat’ (MY Bharat). Approved by the Central Government’s Appointments Committee, this prestigious position is on a deputation basis for three years. This marks a historic moment as Dr. Shukla becomes the country’s first CEO of the youth-centric initiative.
Early Life and Education
Born on August 25, 1980, in Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Priyanka Shukla initially pursued a career in medicine. She completed her MBBS from King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow, in 2006, and began practicing as a doctor. However, her life took a transformative turn following an encounter during her medical service.
The Turning Point: From Doctor to Administrator
While working in a slum area, Dr. Shukla observed a woman feeding her child contaminated water. When she advised the woman against it, the woman retorted sharply, “Are you a Collector?” This single taunt became the turning point in her life, inspiring her to address systemic issues at their roots. Motivated to make a broader impact, Dr. Shukla prepared for the UPSC Civil Services Examination and cleared it on her second attempt in 2009.
Distinguished Career in Administration
Dr. Shukla has held several key positions in her career, demonstrating both innovation and efficiency –
- District Collector of Jashpur and Kanker, where she launched “Yashaswi Jashpur”, a program aimed at improving education and student awareness.
- Commissioner-cum-Director of Health Services, Chhattisgarh.
- Joint Secretary, Health & Mission Director, National Health Mission (NHM), Chhattisgarh.
- Organized awareness campaigns like ‘Jashpur – Ek Pran’, including rallies to promote voter participation.
Her leadership style is noted for prompt action and people-centric governance, earning her admiration from colleagues and citizens alike.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Shukla’s dedication has been recognized nationally –
- National Award for effective implementation of MGNREGS initiatives.
- Rashtriya Saksharta Puraskar from the President of India.
- President’s Silver Medal for outstanding service during the 2011 Census.
These accolades highlight her commitment to governance and social development.
Personal Interests
Beyond her administrative career, Dr. Priyanka Shukla is an accomplished artist. She enjoys contemporary dance, painting, singing, and poetry, and maintains an active presence on social media, sharing motivational content and insights into her work.
A Role Model for Youth
Dr. Shukla’s journey—from a doctor in slum areas to a top IAS officer and now the first CEO of MY Bharat—serves as an inspiration for young Indians. Her story underscores the power of vision, determination, and service, making her a role model for aspiring civil servants and citizens alike.
About My Bharat
Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) is an Indian government autonomous body, launched in October 2023, that acts as a technology-driven platform to empower youth (ages 15-29) for “youth-led development,” moving them from passive recipients to active drivers of nation-building towards a developed India by 2047. It connects young people with opportunities in government, NGOs, and businesses for skill development, experiential learning, volunteering (like “Volunteer For Bharat”), and community engagement, fostering practical skills and a sense of ownership in achieving national goals like “Viksit Bharat”.
