Unexpected Exit Raises Questions; New Leadership Appointed
In a surprising turn of events, Dr. Dhananjay Mohan, a 1988-batch Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer and Head of Forest Force (HoFF) in Uttarakhand, has opted for Voluntary Retirement (VRS) just two months ahead of his scheduled retirement. His application, submitted on June 20, was approved by the government in under 24 hours. Dr. Samir Sinha, a 1990-batch IFS officer, has been entrusted with additional charge as HoFF.
Swift Approval Raises Eyebrows
The speed at which Dr. Mohan’s VRS was processed—coupled with his prior application for Essential Leave from June 25 to July 2—has fueled speculation across bureaucratic and political circles. The rapid approval has led many to believe the decision may have been more sudden than anticipated, even by Dr. Mohan himself.
A Legacy of Integrity and Expertise
An alumnus of IIT Kanpur and a Dehradun native, Dr. Mohan ranked first in electrical engineering before choosing to pursue his deep-rooted passion for environmental service through the Indian Forest Service—topping the IFS 1988 batch.
Regarded globally for his expertise in ornithology and forest research, he is widely respected for his principled leadership and impeccable service record. His appointment as HoFF in May 2024 was seen as a nod to both his professional distinction and unblemished integrity.
Political Undertones and Speculative Exit
While no official reason has been cited for his early retirement, observers point to growing political pressure around the controversial Miyawaki Plantation Project, particularly alleged irregularities in sapling procurement. Though Dr. Mohan has not been directly implicated, the Congress party’s vocal criticism of the project has cast a shadow over the Forest Department, possibly influencing his abrupt exit.
Some insiders suggest Dr. Mohan’s slow-and-steady administrative style may have clashed with the state’s appetite for rapid project execution, while others feel his commitment to ethical governance may have become inconvenient to entrenched interests.
Dr. Samir Sinha Steps In
In the wake of Dr. Mohan’s departure, Dr. Samir Sinha, a seasoned officer with extensive field experience, has been given additional charge of the HoFF post. Known for his effective leadership and operational competence, Dr. Sinha’s appointment is expected to provide continuity as the Forest Department navigates ongoing scrutiny and restructuring.
The transition marks a pivotal moment for Uttarakhand’s forest administration, with stakeholders watching closely to see how the department balances environmental integrity with political and developmental demands.
