From village to IFS: Chhattisgarh youth shares journey from tendu leaf collection to gazetted officer

A young man from a forest-dependent family in Chhattisgarh’s Raigarh district has secured an All India Rank of 91 in the Indian Forest Service (IFS), marking a major achievement for his village and community. Ajay Gupta, whose family depended on collecting tendu leaves and mahua for livelihood, also cleared the civil services examination with rank 452 this year, according to TOI.

Ajay belongs to Sambalpuri village in Raigarh district. He spent his childhood helping his family gather minor forest produce, which remains a key source of income for many families in the region. Despite financial difficulties, he continued to perform well in academics and scored 92.66% in Class 10 and 91.40% in Class 12.

Education supported by scholarships

Ajay later secured admission to the National Institute of Technology, Raipur. Scholarships supported his studies for three years and helped him continue his education without major financial pressure.


Speaking to TOI, Ajay said his ambitions changed after joining NIT. “It was only after entering NIT that I realised I could aim higher,” he said. He said his connection with forests influenced both his thinking and career choice. “The forest has given me everything, livelihood, identity, and now a purpose to give back,” he said. Ajay added that his experience during rural development work in Bastar strengthened his decision to join the forest service.

Balancing studies and family responsibilities

Ajay’s journey reflected the challenges faced by many rural families, where children often balance studies with work responsibilities. During vacations, he would return home and help his family in forest-related work.

Government scholarship schemes also played an important role in his education. Financial support through the minor forest produce federation and the post-matric scholarship scheme helped him focus on studies and prepare for competitive examinations.

Chief minister congratulates Ajay

Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated Ajay and said his success reflected the confidence of forest-dependent families. “It is a matter of pride that a youth who once collected tendu leaves will now be responsible for protecting the same forests,” he said. Forest minister Kedar Kashyap said the achievement represented the aspirations of people living in remote forest regions.