Gangtok, Sikkim: In a recent bureaucratic reshuffle, 2019 batch Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Kshitij Saxena (Sikkim cadre) has been appointed as Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) – Territorial, Gangtok, a key post within the Sikkim Forest Department.
He was previously serving as DFO (T) in Gyalshing.
From Technology to Trees: A Unique Professional Journey
Mr Saxena is known for his diverse academic and professional background. A dual degree holder from BITS Pilani in MSc (Hons.) Physics and B.E. (Hons.) Electronics and Instrumentation, he made a bold career shift into public service, clearing the UPSC Indian Forest Service Examination 2018 with an All India Rank (AIR) of 22.
Before joining the IFS, Saxena held several impactful roles, including-
- Legislative Assistant to a Rajya Sabha MP through PRS Legislative Research
- Research Assistant to the Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Social Justice & Empowerment, Haryana
- Summer Intern at NIT Karnataka, ESS DEE Aluminium Ltd, and New Leaf Dynamic Technologies
Read Also: IFS Officer Kshitij Saxena Trying to Create ‘Little Foresters’ Out of School Children in Sikkim
Administrative and Policy Expertise
Since joining the IFS in December 2019, Mr Saxena has brought his strong research and policy experience into the field of forest management. He has played a proactive role in community outreach and sustainable development efforts in the ecologically sensitive regions of Sikkim.
His past accolades include-
- Certificate of Appreciation from the Government of Haryana for his contributions to DBT in social security pension schemes
- First Prize at BITS Pilani’s APOGEE Tech Fest for an electronics project on real-time object detection
- Recognition for Translation Work from New Leaf Dynamic Technologies
Academic and Extracurricular Leadership
At BITS Pilani, Mr Saxena was not only a top student but also a well-rounded leader – elected to the University Senate, part of the Hindi Drama Club, and core team member of Cactus Flower, the college’s literary magazine.
Looking Ahead
As he takes charge as DFO (T) Gangtok, IFS Saxena is expected to oversee crucial biodiversity and forest protection initiatives in one of India’s most ecologically significant regions. His blend of technological acumen, administrative capability, and grassroots experience makes him a valuable asset to the Sikkim Forest Department.
