New Delhi: In a rare and insightful interaction, Ashutosh Kumar—1991-batch IFS officer and currently Special Secretary, Vigilance and Intelligence, Government of India—reflected on his 33-year journey across some of the most critical ministries in the State and Central Governments. Kumar, a Matrix Level 16 officer known for his integrity and administrative precision, spoke about the values that shaped his service and the lessons today’s young aspirants can draw from his experience.
Having served in key ministries such as Parliamentary Affairs, Labour & Employment, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Home Affairs, Rural Development, and Chemicals and Fertilizers, Ashutosh Kumar emphasized that each role taught him a unique dimension of governance. “Every ministry is a classroom,” he said. “It teaches you how policy touches lives, how decisions carry weight, and how responsibility must be shouldered with humility.”
Kumar’s contributions across these departments reflect a versatile administrative career grounded in discipline and ethical conduct. A consistent academic gold medalist and recipient of the President’s Medal for outstanding government service, he is widely respected for combining intellectual clarity with moral strength. His representation of India at the United Nations and on international delegations to the UK, France, Switzerland, and Austria further strengthened his commitment to global cooperation and national service.
Sharing his thoughts on leadership and public duty, he highlighted the importance of integrity as the foundation of governance.
“Honesty is not just a virtue; it is a silent strength that builds trust long before words do.”
He also underlined that true career growth comes not from shortcuts but from steady discipline.
“Every challenge is a hidden examination paper; those who persevere without shortcuts always pass with distinction.”
On serving in diverse ministries, Kumar noted that the breadth of exposure helped him shape a holistic understanding of India’s administrative ecosystem. Whether managing labour welfare frameworks, overseeing critical supply chain systems, or contributing to rural development schemes, he said that the core principles remained the same: transparency, diligence, and empathy.
“Service to the nation is not a job; it is a lifelong pledge to uphold truth, transparency, and tireless effort.”
Kumar’s reflections come at a time when thousands of students across the country are preparing for civil services and other competitive exams. His message to them was clear and powerful:
“Competitive students must remember—excellence is not achieved in a day, but through everyday discipline.”
He added that leadership is forged in moments of responsibility, not comfort.
“True leadership begins where comfort ends and responsibility begins.”
Ashutosh Kumar’s journey continues to inspire aspiring civil servants who look up to him as a model of honesty, perseverance, and national commitment. His views serve as a reminder that excellence in public service is not defined by positions held, but by the integrity with which they are carried out.