D.Rajasekar IFS

Life Journey

Meet D. Rajasekar IFS, a dedicated Indian Forest Service official who has been serving with the Government of Punjab for the past 23 years. With a diverse background, Rajasekar began his career as a scientist with the Government of India, later transitioning to become a Research Fellow. He holds a post-graduate degree in Forestry from Forest College and Research Institute, Tamilnadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India, and is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Ecosystem Services Evaluation from Forest Research Institute, Dehradun.

Rajasekar’s commitment to excellence was evident early in his career, as he received a gold medal and was the top performer in forestry subjects during his Indian Forest Service training at the prestigious Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, Dehradun. His dedication to environmental stewardship led him to be awarded the British Council Chevening fellowship, allowing him to pursue studies in Environmental Management and Sustainable Development at the University of Wales, Bangor. This opportunity also afforded him the chance to visit various European nations, including the European Union headquarters in Brussels, Belgium.

Passionate about promoting participatory governance, Rajasekar’s professional endeavors have focused on empowering communities and enhancing their role in decision-making processes. He has played instrumental roles in implementing significant projects such as the Punjab Afforestation Project, supported by the Japan Bank of International Cooperation, and the World Bank aided Integrated Watershed Development Project in Punjab. These projects aimed at improving the livelihoods of communities living along forest boundaries and fringes, emphasizing sustainable development and environmental conservation.

Among his notable achievements, Rajasekar is the visionary behind India’s first Keshopur Chaamb Community Reserve in Punjab. Established under the Wildlife Protection Act, this reserve serves to protect migratory birds in the wetland ecosystem, designated as a Ramsar site. Additionally, he has held prominent positions such as Member Secretary of Punjab’s Green India Mission project and Secretary of the Animal Welfare Board of India, underscoring his commitment to wildlife conservation and animal welfare.

Rajasekar’s passion extends beyond his professional pursuits; he is an avid birder, trekker, and nature enthusiast. He finds solace in capturing the beauty of the natural world through photography and enjoys sharing his knowledge and expertise by guiding aspirants for competitive exams and tests.