In the heart of Odisha’s verdant landscapes, where the rhythm of nature pulses through ancient forests and shimmering wetlands, Mr. M. Yogajayananda has carved a name synonymous with dedication, environmental stewardship, and transformative leadership. A 2005-batch Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, he currently serves as the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (RCCF) for Bhubaneswar Circle, with the additional prestigious responsibility of Chief Executive of the Chilika Development Authority (CDA). His journey is a vibrant tapestry of grit, intellect, and an unyielding passion for preserving India’s ecological treasures—a story that unfolds with the energy of a river carving its path through the wilderness.
Early Life: A Seed Planted in Nature’s Soil
M. Yogajayananda’s story begins in a modest setting, where the whispers of the natural world first captivated his imagination. Born into a family that valued education and resilience, he grew up surrounded by the raw beauty of rural India. As a child, he was no stranger to the outdoors—wandering through fields, chasing the flight of birds, and marveling at the intricate dance of ecosystems. These early encounters were more than mere play; they were the roots of a lifelong bond with nature that would guide his every step.
His academic pursuits reflected this connection. With a sharp mind and a thirst for knowledge, Yogajayananda excelled in his studies, eventually earning a degree that equipped him with the tools to understand the science behind the landscapes he loved. It was this blend of curiosity and determination that propelled him toward the Indian Forest Service, a path where he could marry his intellect with his calling. Clearing the highly competitive IFS examination in 2005 was no small feat—it was the dawn of a career destined to leave an indelible mark on India’s environmental legacy.
The Making of a Forest Custodian
Stepping into the IFS, Yogajayananda underwent rigorous training at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy in Dehradun, where he sharpened his skills in forestry, wildlife conservation, and sustainable resource management. His early postings thrust him into the thick of India’s diverse terrains, from dense jungles teeming with life to remote regions where human and nature’s needs often clashed. Each assignment was a chapter of growth, teaching him the art of balancing ecological preservation with the realities of human dependence on forests.
Over the years, Yogajayananda’s career blossomed as he took on increasingly complex roles. Whether it was curbing illegal encroachments, spearheading reforestation efforts, or designing strategies to protect endangered species, he approached every task with a blend of scientific rigor and heartfelt dedication. His peers recall his tireless energy—often seen trudging through muddy trails or poring over maps late into the night—driven by a vision of forests thriving for generations to come.
Rising Through the Ranks: A Leader Emerges
By April 1, 2025, M. Yogajayananda’s journey had led him to the pivotal role of Regional Chief Conservator of Forests for Bhubaneswar Circle, a position that places him at the helm of Odisha’s forest management in a region rich with biodiversity. This appointment was no accident; it was the culmination of years of proven excellence. As RCCF, he oversees a vast network of forests, ensuring their protection while fostering sustainable practices that benefit both nature and local communities.
But his responsibilities don’t end there. In a testament to his versatility, Yogajayananda also serves as the Chief Executive of the Chilika Development Authority, tasked with safeguarding Chilika Lake—one of Asia’s largest brackish water lagoons and a UNESCO-recognized biodiversity hotspot. Here, his leadership shines as he navigates the delicate interplay of conservation, tourism, and the livelihoods of fisherfolk who depend on the lake’s bounty. From combating pollution to restoring habitats for migratory birds like flamingos and pelicans, his initiatives are breathing new life into this ecological jewel.
A Visionary at Work
Yogajayananda’s tenure is defined by action and innovation. He has championed the use of cutting-edge technology—think satellite imagery and drone surveillance—to monitor forest cover and wildlife movements. His policies have cracked down on poaching, revitalized degraded lands, and promoted agroforestry models that empower rural communities. At Chilika, he’s introduced eco-friendly tourism frameworks, ensuring that visitors can marvel at the lake’s splendor without harming its fragile ecosystem.
His approach is holistic. He believes that conservation isn’t just about protecting trees or animals—it’s about building a future where people and nature thrive together. This philosophy has earned him respect from forest rangers, environmentalists, and villagers alike. “The forest is a living system,” he’s been heard saying, “and we’re all part of it.” This mantra drives his every decision, from negotiating with stakeholders to rolling up his sleeves during a plantation drive.
The Man Behind the Mission
At first glance, M. Yogajayananda cuts an unassuming figure—tall, with a steady gaze that hints at both resolve and warmth. But spend a moment with him, and his passion ignites the room. Colleagues describe him as approachable yet firm, a leader who inspires through example rather than edict. His office, cluttered with maps, field notes, and photographs of Chilika’s iridescent waters, is a window into his world—a space where strategy meets soul.
Outside his official duties, Yogajayananda is a man of simple joys. An avid reader and nature enthusiast, he finds solace in the quiet of the wild, often retreating to observe the creatures he works so hard to protect. His family, though private, is said to share his love for the environment, grounding him amidst the whirlwind of his responsibilities. “They’re my strength,” he once confided, a rare glimpse into the personal fuel behind his public mission.
Challenges and Victories
The path of an IFS officer is rarely smooth, and Yogajayananda has faced his share of storms. Illegal logging, human-wildlife conflicts, and the looming shadow of climate change test his mettle daily. Yet, he meets each obstacle with tenacity. One of his proudest victories came when he led a team to reclaim a poaching-ravaged forest patch, turning it into a sanctuary where deer and birds now flourish. At Chilika, his efforts to curb invasive species have bolstered the lake’s resilience, earning nods from global conservation circles.
Climate change, however, remains his toughest foe. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns threaten both his forests and Chilika’s delicate balance. Undeterred, he’s forging partnerships with scientists and NGOs, exploring solutions like mangrove restoration and carbon-smart forestry. His adaptability is his strength—a trait that keeps him ahead of the curve.
A Legacy Unfolding
As of April 1, 2025, M. Yogajayananda’s story is still being written, but its contours are clear. He’s not just an officer; he’s a guardian of India’s natural heritage, a bridge between policy and the people who live it. His work at Bhubaneswar Circle and Chilika Lake is a beacon of what’s possible when passion meets purpose—acres restored, species saved, and communities uplifted.
In a world where nature’s voice is often drowned out, Yogajayananda amplifies it with every step. His legacy isn’t just in the trees he plants or the waters he protects—it’s in the hope he sows, the belief that humanity can still walk hand-in-hand with the wild. As he strides into the forest or gazes across Chilika’s horizon, one thing is certain: this is a man who doesn’t just serve nature—he lives it.