Across India, civil servants are quietly leading powerful transformations, not just from behind desks, but by stepping into communities, understanding local challenges, and implementing bold, practical solutions. Their work goes beyond policy; it’s about creating real, lasting change on the ground.

In this piece, we present the transformative efforts of five dedicated civil servants. From rejuvenating encroached rivers to inspiring rural students in space science, these civil servants have directly engaged with the communities they serve.

1. Manish Bansal, Uttar Pradesh

The Sot River, once vital to Sambhal, lost its natural flow due to decades of encroachment. Fifty years ago, the river irrigated lush crops, but over time, neglect led to its disappearance.

The administration, led by Manish Bansal, IAS, first surveyed the river’s natural alignment and marked its dimensions. Illegal encroachments were removed based on revenue land records. Then, MGNREGA workers helped desilt the river, clearing collected silt to restore its natural capacity.

© The Better India