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 achieved 91 in the Indian Forest Service (IFS) All India Rank, marking a major achievement for his village and community. According to TOI, Ajay Gupta, whose family collects tendu leaves and mahua for a living, also ranked 452nd in the civil services exam this year.

Ajay belongs to Sambalpuri village in Raigarh district. He spent his childhood helping his family collect small forest produce, which remains an important source of income for many families in the area. 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 was later admitted to the National Institute of Technology in Raipur. The scholarships supported his education for three years and helped him continue his studies without great financial pressure.
Speaking to TOI, Ajay said that his goals changed after joining NIT. “It was only after I got into the NIT that I realized I could aim higher,” he said. He said his connection to forests influenced both his thinking and career choice. “The forest gave me everything, my livelihood, my identity, and now the purpose of giving back,” he said. Ajay added that the experience he gained 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. He would return home during holidays and help his family with forest-related work.

Government scholarship programs also played an important role in his education. Financial support through the minor forest products federation and post-matric scholarship program helped him focus on his studies and prepare for competitive exams.

Prime Minister congratulated Ajay

Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated Ajay and said his success reflects the confidence of forest-dependent families. “It is a matter of pride that a young man who once collected tendu leaves is now responsible for protecting the same forests,” he said. Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap said that the success represents the aspirations of people living in remote forest areas.