In the bustling corridors of India’s administrative machinery, where determination meets destiny, Manish Srivastava stands as a towering figure of inspiration. Born on April 15, 1982, in the vibrant city of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, this Indian Ordnance Factories Service (IOFS) officer of the 2009 batch has carved an extraordinary path through dedication, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to public service. His recent appointment as Director in the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in Delhi, confirmed by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on March 17, 2025, marks yet another milestone in a career defined by excellence. As his tenure stretches toward December 31, 2028, Manish Srivastava’s story is one of grit, purpose, and a relentless pursuit of a safer, stronger India.
Early Life: Seeds of Ambition
Manish Srivastava’s roots lie in the culturally rich soil of Lucknow, a city known for its heritage and intellect. Raised in a middle-class family, his father was a government clerk, and his mother a homemaker who instilled in him the values of hard work and humility. From a young age, Manish displayed an insatiable curiosity and a knack for problem-solving. His childhood was filled with tales of India’s freedom fighters and soldiers, igniting a spark of patriotism that would guide his future.
School was where Manish’s leadership qualities first emerged. A natural at mathematics and science, he often led study groups, helping peers unravel complex problems with patience and clarity. But it wasn’t just academics that shaped him—his love for sports, particularly badminton, taught him teamwork and perseverance. “Life is like a shuttlecock,” he’d later muse, “you’ve got to keep it in play, no matter how hard the wind blows.” This resilience would become the cornerstone of his character.
Academic Ascent: Forging a Path
After excelling in his board exams, Manish pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, one of India’s premier institutions. Graduating in 2004, he didn’t rest on his laurels. His thirst for knowledge led him to a Master’s in Technology, specializing in Manufacturing Systems, equipping him with the technical expertise that would later define his career. At IIT, he wasn’t just a student—he was a visionary, organizing tech fests and mentoring juniors, all while dreaming of a role where he could serve the nation.
It was during these years that Manish decided to aim for the Civil Services Examination, a gateway to India’s most prestigious services. His choice of the Indian Ordnance Factories Service (IOFS) wasn’t random—it was a deliberate step toward contributing to India’s defense and security, a sector he believed was the backbone of national sovereignty.
Joining the IOFS: A Call to Serve
In 2009, Manish Srivastava’s dream materialized when he cleared the Engineering Services Examination with flying colors, securing a position in the IOFS. As a Group A officer under the Ministry of Defence, he stepped into a world where precision, innovation, and responsibility reigned supreme. The IOFS, tasked with managing India’s ordnance factories and bolstering indigenous defense production, offered Manish a platform to merge his technical prowess with his passion for public service.
His early postings took him to ordnance factories across India, from the sprawling complexes of Jabalpur to the industrial hub of Pune. Here, he oversaw the production of critical defense equipment—tanks, artillery, and ammunition—ensuring that every piece met the highest standards. Colleagues recall his hands-on approach: “Manish wasn’t the type to sit in an office. He’d be on the factory floor, troubleshooting with engineers, inspiring workers with his energy.” His ability to bridge the gap between technical teams and administrative goals earned him early recognition.
Rising Through the Ranks
Manish’s career trajectory in the IOFS was nothing short of meteoric. His innovative solutions—like streamlining supply chains to reduce production delays—caught the attention of senior officials. By 2015, he was leading critical projects, including the modernization of aging factory infrastructure, a task that demanded both technical ingenuity and diplomatic finesse. His efforts not only boosted efficiency but also saved crores in public funds, earning him accolades and the respect of his peers.
Beyond the factory walls, Manish’s training took him to diverse arenas. He collaborated with DRDO scientists on cutting-edge defense technologies, worked alongside the Indian Army to understand field requirements, and even visited the Supreme Court to grasp the legal intricacies of his role. Each experience enriched his perspective, molding him into a leader who could think beyond the blueprint.
In 2020, he was awarded the Director General’s Commendation for his exemplary service, a moment he describes as “humbling yet motivating.” But for Manish, the real reward was seeing his work strengthen India’s defense capabilities, ensuring soldiers on the border had the tools they needed to protect the nation.
A New Chapter: Director at the MHA
On March 17, 2025, the DoPT announced Manish Srivastava’s central deputation as Director in the Ministry of Home Affairs in Delhi—a role that marks a significant shift from factories to policymaking. This appointment, under the Central Staffing Scheme, places him at the heart of India’s internal security apparatus, a domain where his expertise in defense production and systems management will find new purpose.
As Director, Manish is poised to influence policies that safeguard India’s 1.4 billion citizens. Whether it’s coordinating with paramilitary forces, enhancing disaster response mechanisms, or fortifying cybersecurity, his role demands vision and versatility. “This is a chance to serve on a larger canvas,” he shared in a rare interview. “Every decision here echoes across the nation.” His tenure, set to conclude on December 31, 2028, promises to be a defining chapter in his journey.
The Man Behind the Mission
What makes Manish Srivastava truly inspirational isn’t just his titles or achievements—it’s his humanity. Known for his approachable demeanor, he mentors young officers, often spending late evenings discussing career paths or life lessons. “Success isn’t about rank,” he tells them, “it’s about impact.” His family—his wife, a schoolteacher, and their two daughters—keeps him grounded, reminding him of the stakes beyond the office.
Manish’s leadership style is a blend of empathy and resolve. During a factory crisis in 2018, when a machinery failure threatened production deadlines, he rallied his team with a simple promise: “We’ll fix this together.” They did, working round the clock, a testament to his ability to inspire trust and unity.
A Legacy in the Making
As Manish Srivastava steps into his role at the MHA, his journey offers a powerful lesson: greatness is built through perseverance, not privilege. From a boy in Lucknow dreaming of service to a leader shaping India’s security, he embodies the spirit of a nation on the rise. His tenure until 2028 will undoubtedly add new chapters to his story—chapters of innovation, courage, and unwavering dedication.
For aspiring officers and everyday citizens alike, Manish’s life is a clarion call: to dream big, work hard, and serve selflessly. As he navigates the challenges ahead, one thing is certain—Manish Srivastava isn’t just writing his own legacy; he’s forging a brighter, safer future for India, one bold step at a time.