In the intricate tapestry of India’s administrative fabric, few threads shine as brightly or spark as much debate as M Raju, an IAS officer whose journey blends brilliance, perseverance, and a dash of controversy. A stalwart of the Jammu and Kashmir cadre, Raju’s career is a compelling narrative of service, innovation, and an unyielding spirit that has propelled him into the spotlight, most recently with his two-year extension as Director General of the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) in March 2025. Yet, his path is not without shadows, as the Jammu and Kashmir High Court’s recent displeasure over his appointment amid an ongoing arms licenses scam case casts a complex hue over his legacy.
Born on April 15, 1972, in a quaint village in Tamil Nadu, M Raju grew up surrounded by the simplicity of rural life, where resilience was a lesson learned early. With a B.Tech in Civil Engineering from Anna University, his academic foundation was as solid as the bridges he once dreamed of building. But destiny had grander plans. Clearing the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 1999, he joined the Indian Administrative Service, opting for the challenging terrain of Jammu and Kashmir a choice that would define his career.
Raju’s early postings showcased his knack for innovation. As District Collector of Kupwara, he introduced “Green Pathways,” a unique initiative blending afforestation with rural employment, planting over 50,000 trees while empowering local youth. His tenure as Secretary of the Power Department saw him spearhead the “Solar Hamlets” project, illuminating remote villages with renewable energy and earning him accolades for sustainable development. Colleagues recall his meticulous approach often sketching policy blueprints by hand, a nod to his engineering roots.
Yet, it’s his role as Director General of the NCGG where Raju has truly left a mark. Appointed in 2022, his leadership transformed the institution into a global hub for governance training, fostering partnerships with over 30 countries by 2025. His brainchild, the “Governance Compass” program, integrates AI-driven analytics to enhance public service delivery a futuristic vision that’s garnered international praise. This extension until 2027 reflects the government’s faith in his ability to steer India’s administrative ethos toward excellence.
But Raju’s story isn’t all accolades. In March 2025, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court voiced strong disapproval over his continued prominence while facing prosecution in the Arms Licenses Scam—an alleged irregularity from his time as an administrator in the region. Posts on X echo this tension, with some lauding his service and others questioning his integrity. The case, still unfolding, adds a layer of intrigue to his otherwise illustrious career, leaving observers to ponder: is this a blemish or a battle yet to be won?
Beyond the headlines, Raju is a man of quiet passions. An avid trekker, he’s scaled peaks in the Pir Panjal range, finding solace in nature’s embrace. His love for Tamil literature often seen with a copy of Thirukkural grounds him amidst bureaucratic storms. Those close to him describe a leader who listens intently, his piercing gaze softened by a rare, warm smile.
As M Raju navigates this pivotal chapter, his journey mirrors the rugged landscapes he’s served beautiful, challenging, and enduring. Whether shaping governance or facing legal scrutiny, he remains a figure of fascination, his legacy a work in progress, etched with both triumphs and trials.