From Medical Service to National Youth Leadership: The Inspiring Rise of the Officer Now Steering India’s Youth-Driven Development Mission
In a landmark move reflecting the government’s renewed focus on youth-led nation-building, Dr. Priyanka Shukla, a 2009-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Chhattisgarh cadre, has been appointed as the first-ever Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ‘Mera Yuva Bharat’ (MY Bharat) — the Government of India’s flagship youth empowerment platform.
Her appointment has been approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and will be on a three-year central deputation, marking a historic milestone in India’s evolving youth governance architecture.
A Doctor Who Chose Administration to Heal the System
Born on August 25, 1980, in Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Shukla began her professional journey in medicine. She earned her MBBS degree from King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow, in 2006, and started working as a practicing physician.
A defining incident during her early medical career reshaped her life’s direction. While serving in an underprivileged settlement, she noticed a mother giving her child unsafe, contaminated water. When she intervened, the woman’s pointed response — “Are you the Collector?” — sparked a powerful realization. Dr. Shukla understood that sustainable change required administrative authority, not just clinical care.
Determined to address public health and social inequities at their roots, she appeared for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, clearing it on her second attempt in 2009.
An Administrator Known for Innovation and Impact
Over the years, Dr. Shukla has held several strategically important positions in Chhattisgarh’s administration, consistently introducing reform-oriented and people-centric initiatives:
Served as District Collector of Jashpur and Kanker, where she launched the transformative education and youth-awareness program “Yashaswi Jashpur.”
Worked as Commissioner-cum-Director of Health Services, Chhattisgarh, strengthening healthcare delivery mechanisms.
Held the position of Joint Secretary (Health) and Mission Director, National Health Mission (NHM), Chhattisgarh, overseeing statewide public health missions.
Conceptualized social awareness drives such as ‘Jashpur – Ek Pran’, mobilizing communities for voter participation and civic engagement.
Her reputation is built on decisive governance, rapid grievance redressal, and grassroots engagement.
National Recognition for Outstanding Public Service
Dr. Shukla’s work has earned her several prestigious national honors, including:
National Award for excellence in MGNREGS implementation
Rashtriya Saksharta Puraskar, conferred by the President of India
President’s Silver Medal for exceptional service during the 2011 Census
These recognitions reflect her commitment to transparency, inclusion, and development-oriented administration.
A Multifaceted Personality
Beyond government service, Dr. Shukla is known for her artistic and creative pursuits. She is actively involved in contemporary dance, painting, music, and poetry, and regularly engages wi
