ISS Officer Monika Appointed as Senior Manager in TRIFED to Strengthen Data-Driven Tribal Development Initiatives
In a strategic move aimed at reinforcing the analytical and operational backbone of the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited (TRIFED), the Government of India has appointed Ms. Monika, a distinguished officer of the Indian Statistical Service (ISS), to the post of Senior Manager.
This appointment aligns with the Centre’s ongoing effort to infuse data-oriented decision-making, statistical evaluation, and performance monitoring into key organizations that play a pivotal role in inclusive and sustainable development, especially for India’s tribal population.
Professional Background of Ms. Monika
Ms. Monika belongs to the Indian Statistical Service (ISS) — a premier Central Service under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). The ISS cadre provides technical expertise in data analytics, policy evaluation, research methodology, and statistical system design, supporting evidence-based policymaking across various ministries and departments.
Throughout her career, Ms. Monika has worked in multiple government sectors where she contributed to survey design, policy monitoring, and performance assessment for national development programmes. Her strong grounding in quantitative analysis and project evaluation makes her particularly well-suited for an organization like TRIFED, which operates at the intersection of social development and market-driven enterprise.
About TRIFED: Empowering India’s Tribal Communities
The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) functions under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and serves as the apex body for promoting tribal entrepreneurship, marketing tribal products, and ensuring sustainable livelihoods for India’s indigenous communities.
Established in 1987, TRIFED works to bridge the gap between tribal artisans and the mainstream market by organizing the procurement and marketing of tribal produce, including minor forest produce (MFP) and handicrafts, under the national brand “TRIBES India.”
The organization plays a central role in implementing flagship schemes such as:
Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) — aimed at creating micro-enterprise clusters for tribal gatherers.
Marketing and development of tribal art and craft.
Skill development and capacity building of tribal artisans.
Digital marketing initiatives to enhance online visibility and market reach of tribal products.
Role and Responsibilities as Senior Manager
In her capacity as Senior Manager, Ms. Monika will oversee a wide range of responsibilities integral to TRIFED’s growth and efficiency. Her key functions are likely to include:
Designing and managing data-driven frameworks for monitoring TRIFED’s programmes and market operations. Conducting statistical analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of tribal welfare schemes and business performance indicators.
Supporting the development of digital dashboards and MIS tools to track the impact of TRIFED’s initiatives in real-time. Coordinating with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, state-level agencies, and partner institutions to enhance evidence-based decision-making.
Contributing to policy formulation, research-based planning, and evaluation of livelihood promotion projects. Her statistical expertise will also aid in identifying market trends, optimizing logistics chains, and ensuring that tribal producers receive fair value for their goods and services.
Strategic Significance of the Appointment
The appointment of an Indian Statistical Service officer like Ms. Monika reflects the government’s recognition of the growing importance of data analytics and performance measurement in social and economic development programmes.
By integrating statistical acumen into TRIFED’s management, the organization can enhance transparency, accountability, and measurable outcomes in its operations.
Ms. Monika’s presence is expected to:
Strengthen evidence-based governance in tribal welfare.
Enhance data quality and performance evaluation mechanisms.
Facilitate data-backed marketing strategies for tribal products in domestic and international markets.
With her appointment as Senior Manager in TRIFED, Ms. Monika brings a unique blend of analytical expertise and public policy experience to one of India’s most vital development organizations.
Her inclusion marks a step forward in TRIFED’s transformation into a modern, data-driven enterprise, capable of ensuring that tribal communities not only preserve their cultural heritage but also participate meaningfully in the nation’s economic growth.
Through this appointment, the Government of India reinforces its commitment to evidence-based development, transparent governance, and empowerment of tribal entrepreneurs across the country.
