Guwahati: On International Women's Day, we recognize the exceptional contributions of women leaders across all sectors, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). Assam boasts several remarkable women IAS officers who are shaping the state's development trajectory. Here we profiles four such dynamic and dedicated women IAS officers serving in Assam– Keerthi Jalli, Laya Madduri, Laxmi Priya, and Roshni Aparanji Korati. These women IAS officers, through their dedication, unwavering commitment, and innovative programs, are making a significant and positive impact on Assam's governance and social landscape.
1. MS Lakshmi Priya: A Doctor Turned Agent of Change
Dr. MS Lakshmi Priya, a 2014-batch IAS officer and current Mission Director of the National Health Mission (NHM) in Assam, has garnered national recognition for her work. Bill Gates, co-founder of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, commended her efforts in improving nutrition outcomes for women and children in the state.
Dr. Priya's dedication extends beyond healthcare. As the Deputy Commissioner of Bongaigaon, she launched several initiatives empowering the youth, including the Lakshya IAS Coaching programme. She also spearheaded projects like distributing UJALA LED bulbs, installing solar street lights, and tackling malnutrition through the Sampurna scheme. Her commitment to public health is evident in Project Saubhagya, which focuses on newborn and maternal health, and Project Milijuli, which provided quarantine facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Priya's tireless efforts on Project SAMPOORNA in Bongaigaon were recognized with the Prime Minister's Award for Excellence in Public Administration in 2022.
2. Keerthi Jalli: A Hero During Floods
Keerthi Jalli, a 2013 batch IAS officer, is currently the DC of Kamrup Rural district. She rose to prominence during the devastating Cachar floods of 2022, where she won hearts by wading barefoot through flood-affected areas to inspect the damage and interact directly with residents. Jalli is known for her dedication to public service and has actively promoted menstrual hygiene awareness campaigns. Her commitment to development in Assam's remote areas has been recognized with the Best Administrative Performer Award.
3. Laya Madduri: Driving Financial Progress
Laya Madduri, a 2010 batch IAS officer, currently serves as the Secretary to the Assam government's Finance department. She has a proven track record of tackling complex issues. During her time as the Cachar Deputy Commissioner, Madduri addressed various challenges in the constituency, including garbage disposal, riverbank erosion, and inadequate infrastructure.
4. Roshni Aparanji Korati: Recognized for Rural Development
Roshni Aparanji Korati, a 2011 batch IAS officer of Assam-Meghalaya cadre currently on central deputation as the Joint Development Commissioner of the Special Economic Zone (Visakhapatnam), has left her mark on Assam. During her tenure as the DC of Jorhat and Dhemaji, Korati's impactful work was acknowledged with prestigious awards, including the Prime Minister's Award for Excellence in Public Administration in 2018, the National Award for PMAY-G, and the Chief Minister's Award for Excellence in Public Administration.
