Mr. Ashok Barnawal, a seasoned Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1991 Madhya Pradesh cadre, stands as a beacon of dedication and integrity in the realm of public administration. With a career spanning over three decades, he has navigated the complexities of governance with remarkable skill, rising through the ranks to his current roles as the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) for the Forest Department and the Agriculture Production Commissioner. His journey is not just a chronicle of positions held, but a testament to his unwavering commitment to the people of Madhya Pradesh, blending technical expertise with a human touch.
A Strong Educational Foundation
Mr. Barnawal’s academic credentials are a blend of technical prowess and administrative insight. He earned a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Mining Engineering, a discipline that honed his analytical and problem-solving abilities—skills that would later prove invaluable in his administrative career. To further sharpen his expertise, he pursued a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Policy and Management from the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore. This combination of engineering and management education equipped him with a rare duality: the precision of a technocrat and the vision of a policymaker.
The Early Years: A District-Level Dynamo
Joining the IAS in 1991, Mr. Barnawal embarked on his administrative odyssey in the Madhya Pradesh cadre, a state known for its diverse challenges and opportunities. His early career was marked by hands-on governance at the district level, where he served as District Collector in multiple regions, including Bastar, Dewas, and Guna. His tenure in Bastar in 1998, then part of undivided Madhya Pradesh, remains a defining chapter. Here, he earned accolades for his fearless integrity, uncovering irregularities involving two IAS officers and recommending stringent action against them. This incident underscored his resolve to uphold ethical standards, setting the tone for his future endeavors.
In Dewas and Guna, Mr. Barnawal continued to build his reputation as a people-centric administrator. Whether it was streamlining local governance or spearheading development projects, his focus remained on delivering tangible results for the communities he served. These formative years shaped him into a leader who could balance administrative rigor with empathy—a quality that would define his later roles.
Scaling New Heights: State-Level Leadership
As his career progressed, Mr. Barnawal transitioned to state-level responsibilities, where his scope of influence expanded significantly. He held an array of critical portfolios as Principal Secretary, including Technical Education & Skill Development, Horticulture and Food Processing, and Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection. In each role, he brought innovation and efficiency, leaving an indelible mark on Madhya Pradesh’s administrative landscape.
One of his standout contributions during this phase was his pioneering work in e-governance. Recognizing the transformative potential of technology, Mr. Barnawal championed initiatives that digitized government processes, making them more transparent and accessible. This forward-thinking approach not only streamlined operations but also bridged the gap between the administration and the citizens, earning him widespread praise.
Pinnacle of Service: Key Appointments
In 2018, Mr. Barnawal’s career reached a significant milestone when he was appointed Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. Stationed at the nerve center of the state’s governance, he played a pivotal role in translating the Chief Minister’s vision into actionable policies. His tenure here showcased his ability to navigate high-stakes environments with finesse and foresight.
The year 2022 marked another leap forward when he was elevated to the rank of Additional Chief Secretary. Initially tasked with overseeing the Department of Farmers Welfare and Agriculture Development, as well as the Backward Classes and Minority Welfare Department, he tackled issues of agricultural productivity and social equity with equal vigor. His leadership in these domains was characterized by a pragmatic yet progressive approach, aimed at uplifting farmers and marginalized communities.
In 2024, Mr. Barnawal was reposted to the Forest Department as ACS, a role that reflected his prior experience and expertise in environmental governance. Concurrently, he was appointed Chairman of the Madhya Pradesh State Forest Development Corporation Limited, further amplifying his influence in sustainable forest management.
Dual Roles, Singular Dedication
Today, Mr. Ashok Barnawal wears two hats with distinction: ACS for the Forest Department and Agriculture Production Commissioner. As ACS Forest, he steers policies on conservation, wildlife protection, and ecological sustainability—crucial mandates in a state rich with natural heritage. Simultaneously, as Agriculture Production Commissioner, he oversees strategies to boost agricultural output, ensuring food security and supporting the state’s agrarian backbone. This dual responsibility highlights his versatility and the trust reposed in him by the Madhya Pradesh government.
In the Forest Department, his leadership fosters a balance between development and preservation, while his role as Agriculture Production Commissioner focuses on innovative farming techniques and rural prosperity. Together, these positions underscore his ability to address the interconnected challenges of environmental stewardship and agricultural growth.
A Legacy of Integrity and Impact
Mr. Barnawal’s career is a tapestry woven with threads of honesty, dedication, and service. His early stand against corruption in Bastar, his push for e-governance, and his stewardship of critical departments have cemented his reputation as a principled administrator. Colleagues and citizens alike admire his approachable demeanor and his knack for finding practical solutions to complex problems.
With a B.Tech in Mining Engineering and a diploma from IIM Bangalore as his academic anchors, Mr. Barnawal has navigated the bureaucratic landscape with a rare blend of technical acumen and human insight. His contributions to Madhya Pradesh—be it in agriculture, forestry, or governance—reflect a career dedicated to the greater good.
Looking Ahead
As Mr. Ashok Barnawal continues to serve as ACS Forest and Agriculture Production Commissioner, his journey remains a dynamic narrative of growth and impact. With over three decades in the IAS, he exemplifies what it means to be a public servant in the truest sense—resilient, innovative, and deeply committed to the welfare of the people. His story is not just one of personal achievement, but a blueprint for ethical and effective governance in modern India.