Bishnupada Sethi is a prominent Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from Odisha. As of December 2024, he serves as the Principal Secretary in the Odisha government, specifically in the SC/ST Welfare and Odia Language departments. He is known for his effective handling of crises, such as the devastating cyclone Fani in 2019, where he was recognized for his leadership as Relief Commissioner.
Early Life and Education
Bishnupada Sethi was born into a family facing extreme poverty. His mother played a crucial role in inspiring him to pursue education, often asking him if he could become a collector. This question motivated him to aim high despite the odds stacked against him. Sethi completed his schooling with great determination, often reflecting on his family's strugglesHe earned a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Mechanical Engineering from the National Institute of Technology Rourkela and later pursued a Post Graduate Diploma in Industrial Engineering. He also holds a Doctorate (PhD) from Desh Bhagat University and has attended executive education programs at prestigious institutions like Harvard Kennedy School and Cambridge Judge Business School.
Bishnupada Sethi IAS Age, Wikipedia, Biography, Batch, Birth Place, Home Address, Wife, Son, Family
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Bishnupada Sethi |
| Date of Birth | March 9, 1975 |
| Birthplace | Odisha, India |
| Education | - BTech in Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela (1985-1989) |
| - PG Diploma in Industrial Engineering, National Institute of Industrial Engineering (1989-1990) | |
| - PhD, Desh Bhagat University | |
| - Executive Education, Harvard Kennedy School (2017) | |
| - Executive Education, Cambridge Judge Business School (2015) | |
| Career | - IAS Officer since 1995 |
| - Principal Secretary, SC/ST Welfare and Odia Language Department, Government of Odisha (2019-Present) | |
| - Director, Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner of India (2009-2015) | |
| - Senior Project Coordinator, UNDP in India (2003-2006) | |
| - District Magistrate, Government of Odisha (2000-2002) | |
| Notable Achievements | - Effective management during Cyclone Fani as Relief Commissioner |
| - Implemented Odisha Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy and Odisha Fishery Policy | |
| - Authored multiple poetry books and monographs on indigenous animal breeds | |
| Awards | - Bhima Bhoi Award for promoting Mahima philosophy |
| Recent Developments | Summoned by CBI on December 10, 2024, for questioning related to a corruption case |
| Contact Information | Phone: 0674-2536672 Email: stscdev@gmail.com |
Career in IAS
Bishnupada Sethi joined the IAS in 1995. His career spans various important roles within the Odisha government. He has served as a District Magistrate and held several key positions, including Director at the Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner of India. His work has focused on improving living conditions and addressing issues faced by marginalized communities in Odisha.One of his notable achievements includes implementing the Odisha Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy and the Odisha Fishery Policy under UNDP projects. His efforts have significantly benefited people in underdeveloped regions like KBK, where he received commendations from the National Human Rights Commission for addressing starvation deaths.Contributions to Literature
Aside from his administrative duties, Sethi is an accomplished poet and author. He began writing poetry at the age of 13, initially composing in Odia before switching to English to reach a broader audience. His first poetry book, Where Shall I Go!, was published in 2006, inspired by the stories of displacement he heard during a seminar.His recent collection, Beyond Here and Other Poems (2021), captures emotions experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. This book was included in the MA English course at the University of Mumbai, highlighting its impact. Sethi's poetry often reflects his observations of society and personal experiences, making it relatable and poignant.Recognition and Awards
Bishnupada Sethi's contributions have been recognized through various awards. He received the Bhima Bhoi Award for promoting Mahima philosophy in Odisha. His literary works have been translated into multiple languages, showcasing his influence beyond regional boundaries.Recent Developments
In December 2024, Sethi was summoned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding a corruption case involving alleged bribery linked to projects assigned under his department. He did not appear for questioning on the scheduled date but sought additional time through legal counsel. This development has raised questions about integrity within public service roles.Personal Reflections
Despite his busy schedule as an IAS officer, Sethi emphasizes the importance of pursuing passions like writing. He believes that passion creates time for personal interests outside professional obligations. He continues to write poetry and is working on a non-fiction book that is currently under publication.Recent Questions and Answers about IAS Bishnupada Sethi
1. Why Was IAS Bishnupada Sethi Summoned by the CBI?Bishnupada Sethi was summoned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with a bribery case involving a senior executive from Bridge and Roof Company (India) Limited. The case involves allegations of a ₹10 lakh bribe related to projects assigned under his department.
2. Did Bishnupada Sethi Appear for Questioning on the Scheduled Date?
No, Sethi did not appear for questioning on December 11, 2024, as requested by the CBI. He sought additional time through his legal counsel.
No, Sethi did not appear for questioning on December 11, 2024, as requested by the CBI. He sought additional time through his legal counsel.
3. What are the Details of the Bribery Case Involving Sethi?
The bribery case centers around Chanchal Mukherjee, a group general manager at Bridge and Roof Company, who was allegedly caught accepting a ₹10 lakh bribe from a private company. Sethi's name came up during the investigation, prompting the CBI to question him about relevant facts.
The bribery case centers around Chanchal Mukherjee, a group general manager at Bridge and Roof Company, who was allegedly caught accepting a ₹10 lakh bribe from a private company. Sethi's name came up during the investigation, prompting the CBI to question him about relevant facts.
4. What has been the Response from the Odisha Government Regarding This Issue?
The Odisha government has asserted a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan emphasized that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty, regardless of their position.
The Odisha government has asserted a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan emphasized that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty, regardless of their position.
5. What has been Reported About Sethi's Drivers in Relation to the Investigation?
The CBI has also summoned and interrogated three drivers associated with Sethi to gather information about his movements and activities around the time of the alleged bribery incident.
The CBI has also summoned and interrogated three drivers associated with Sethi to gather information about his movements and activities around the time of the alleged bribery incident.