Key Points:
- Vivek Chandel is an IAS officer of the Himachal Pradesh cadre, promoted from the Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service (HAS) in April 2024.
- He topped the HAS exam in 2004, showcasing early academic and professional excellence.
- Currently serves as Director-cum-Warden of Fisheries in Himachal Pradesh, driving significant advancements in sustainable aquaculture.
- Awarded Best Case Study Performer at LBSNAA in 2025, recognized among 97 officers from 19 states.
- Selected as Master of Ceremonies for a presidential call-on in June 2025, reflecting peer respect.
- His contributions to fisheries include record-breaking Golden Mahseer and trout production, alongside innovative technology adoption.
Overview
Vivek Chandel, a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from Himachal Pradesh, has emerged as a model of leadership and innovation in public service. His journey from topping the Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service (HAS) exam in 2004 to his promotion to IAS in 2024 reflects a career built on dedication and excellence. Currently, as the Director-cum-Warden of Fisheries, he has transformed the sector with sustainable practices and modern technology, earning national recognition for his analytical skills and governance capabilities.
Achievements in Fisheries
Since taking charge of the Fisheries Department in October 2023, Vivek has spearheaded initiatives that have significantly boosted production. His leadership has led to a remarkable increase in Golden Mahseer fingerling production and trout output, alongside the introduction of advanced aquaculture technologies like the Cold Water Recirculatory Aquaculture System (RAS). These efforts highlight his commitment to environmental sustainability and economic growth.
National Recognition
In 2025, Vivek was honored as the Best Case Study Performer at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) during the 127th Induction Training Programme. This accolade, presented by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, underscores his ability to tackle complex governance challenges. Additionally, his selection as Master of Ceremonies for a presidential call-on at Rashtrapati Bhawan reflects the high regard in which he is held by peers.
Ongoing Impact
As Vivek continues to serve Himachal Pradesh, his innovative approaches and dedication to public welfare position him as a key figure in the state’s administrative landscape. His work not only enhances the fisheries sector but also sets a benchmark for effective governance.
Biography of IAS Vivek Chandel: A Visionary Leader in Public Service
In the serene landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, where the majestic Himalayas cradle vibrant rivers and lush valleys, IAS Vivek Chandel has emerged as a beacon of administrative excellence. His journey from a top-performing Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service (HAS) officer to a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service, innovative thinking, and transformative leadership. Recognized nationally for his analytical prowess and respected by peers for his integrity, Vivek Chandel is redefining governance in Himachal Pradesh, particularly through his groundbreaking work in the fisheries sector.
Early Career: A Foundation of Excellence
Vivek Chandel’s administrative journey began with a remarkable achievement: topping the Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service (HAS) exam in 2004. This early success marked him as a standout talent, showcasing his intellectual rigor and dedication to public service. As an HAS officer, he served in various capacities, gaining hands-on experience in governance and earning a reputation for his meticulous approach and ability to address complex challenges. His consistent performance and leadership qualities paved the way for his promotion to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in April 2024, a milestone that elevated him to one of the highest echelons of public administration in India .
Leadership in the Fisheries Department
Since October 2023, Vivek Chandel has served as the Director-cum-Warden of the Department of Fisheries in Himachal Pradesh, a role in which he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision. Under his stewardship, the department has achieved unprecedented growth, particularly in sustainable aquaculture practices that balance economic development with environmental conservation.
Key Achievements in Fisheries
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Golden Mahseer Breeding | Production surged to 87,000 fingerlings in 2024-25, up from a previous maximum of 5,000, marking a significant leap in conservation and production efforts. |
| Trout Production | Increased to 1,608 metric tonnes in 2024-25 from 1,405 metric tonnes in 2023-24, boosting the state’s fisheries output. |
| RAS Technology | Introduced Cold Water Recirculatory Aquaculture System (RAS) with a pilot project at Patlikuhal Trout Farm in Kullu reaching the harvesting stage. One private RAS unit is operational, with two more under construction. |
| Golden Mahseer Ranching | Initiated first-time ranching in Gobind Sagar and Pong reservoirs, enhancing biodiversity and sustainable fisheries. |
Vivek’s leadership has transformed the fisheries sector by introducing innovative technologies like the Cold Water Recirculatory Aquaculture System (RAS). The pilot project at Patlikuhal Trout Farm in Kullu has reached the harvesting stage, setting a model for modern aquaculture. Additionally, his efforts have led to the establishment of one operational private RAS unit, with two more under construction, signaling a shift toward sustainable and scalable fisheries practices .
His focus on Golden Mahseer breeding has been particularly noteworthy. By increasing production to 87,000 fingerlings in 2024-25, Vivek has not only bolstered conservation efforts for this endangered species but also created new economic opportunities for local communities. Similarly, the rise in trout production to 1,608 metric tonnes in 2024-25 reflects his ability to drive measurable outcomes through strategic planning and execution.
National Recognition at LBSNAA
Vivek Chandel’s intellectual and analytical capabilities were recognized on a national stage during the 127th Induction Training Programme at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. Among 97 officers from 19 states, he was awarded the Best Case Study Performer title, an accolade presented by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at a formal ceremony in Vivekananda Hall. This recognition highlights his ability to analyze complex governance issues and propose innovative solutions, a skill that has defined his career .
The six-week training program at LBSNAA, designed to enhance governance capabilities, leadership qualities, and ethical orientation, saw Vivek excel in case study writing, a critical component of administrative training. His ability to stand out among a diverse and competitive cohort underscores his intellectual rigor and commitment to excellence.
Peer Respect and Leadership
In addition to his professional achievements, Vivek Chandel commands immense respect among his peers. On June 3, 2025, he was selected by his fellow officers to serve as the Master of Ceremonies during their call-on with the President at Rashtrapati Bhawan. This rare honor reflects the confidence and admiration he inspires among colleagues, a testament to his leadership and interpersonal skills .
A Vision for Himachal Pradesh
Vivek Chandel’s career is a blend of innovation, dedication, and a deep commitment to the welfare of Himachal Pradesh. His work in the fisheries department has not only enhanced production but also set a precedent for sustainable development in the state. By introducing modern technologies and focusing on conservation, he has ensured that the fisheries sector contributes to both economic growth and environmental preservation.
As an IAS officer, Vivek continues to serve as a role model for aspiring civil servants. His ability to balance administrative responsibilities with innovative solutions has positioned him as a key figure in Himachal Pradesh’s developmental landscape. Whether it’s through his transformative work in fisheries or his nationally recognized analytical skills, Vivek Chandel is leaving an indelible mark on public administration.
Looking Ahead
As of June 2025, Vivek Chandel remains a driving force in Himachal Pradesh’s administrative framework. His contributions to the fisheries sector and his recognition at LBSNAA are just the beginning of what promises to be a distinguished career. With a focus on sustainable development and effective governance, he is poised to continue shaping the future of Himachal Pradesh, inspiring both his peers and the communities he serves.
Vivek Chandel’s story is one of perseverance, excellence, and a relentless pursuit of public good. As he navigates the challenges of governance, his innovative approaches and dedication to service ensure that his legacy will endure, making him a true visionary in the realm of public administration.