(THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM)
In a groundbreaking moment for Indian civil services, the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Association has elected an all-women national executive committee — a first in the history of India’s 36 organised civil services. The decision was taken during the Association’s general body meeting held on Sunday.

This unprecedented move is being hailed as a significant step forward for gender representation and leadership in the higher echelons of public service. The Association, in an official statement, described the development as a “milestone in the journey toward gender equality in civil services.”

The newly constituted leadership includes Jyotsana Sitling as Patron, Anita Karan as President, Monalisa Dash as Secretary General, Dr. Surbhi Rai as Joint Secretary, Suvvena Thakur as Treasurer, and Chestha Singh as Literary Secretary.

As one of the three prestigious All India Services, the Indian Forest Service plays a vital role in managing and conserving India’s forests, wildlife, and natural resources. The formation of an all-women executive committee not only reflects a changing leadership paradigm within the service but also sets a powerful precedent for inclusive governance.

This landmark election stands as a moment of pride for the IFS and a progressive stride for the wider civil services community in India.