With over a decade of rich experience spanning environmental governance, climate policy, and air quality management, Deepak is currently serving as the State Lead at the Air Pollution Action Group (A-PAG), steering operations in Bihar. In this role, he is actively supporting the Bihar State Pollution Control Board, municipal corporations, and other key departments in implementing targeted interventions to combat air pollution. Prior to this, he played a similar role in Jharkhand as a Program Associate at The University of Chicago Trust, strengthening systems and strategies to address air pollution in collaboration with the Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board. Their earlier work with the DFID–UK-funded Action on Climate Today (ACT) showcased their expertise in climate resilience planning, where he provided technical insights and engaged with multiple government departments to mainstream climate change into development planning. His foundational years as Project Management Officer with the Environment & Forest Department, Government of Bihar, and as a Technical Expert with Gujarat State Watershed Management Agency, reflect a solid grounding in project execution, interdepartmental coordination, and on-ground implementation—from watershed development to flagship programs like Namami Gange.
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Q. How has been your journey from IIFM so far?
A. My journey from IIFM has been both enriching and transformative. The institute laid a strong foundation in environmental management, policy, and sustainability—which became the bedrock of my professional path. Right after IIFM, I began my career as a Technical Expert with the Gujarat State Watershed Management Agency, working at the grassroots level on integrated watershed development projects. This hands-on experience gave me a deep appreciation of community-centric natural resource management.
From there, I moved to the Environment & Forest Department, Government of Bihar, where I took on the role of Project Management Officer. Leading state-level initiatives under the Hariyali Mission and Namami Gange, I was exposed to large-scale project planning and interdepartmental coordination. This was a significant shift from district-level work to policy-level involvement.
My next step into the DFID-UK-funded ACT (Action on Climate Today) project marked a transition into climate policy, where I provided technical support and engaged with state and national stakeholders to mainstream climate resilience into development processes. The exposure I received during this phase broadened my understanding of climate governance and systems thinking.
Later, as a Program Associate at The University of Chicago Trust, I took up the responsibility of managing air pollution interventions in Jharkhand, closely collaborating with the State Pollution Control Board. It was both challenging and rewarding to work at the intersection of data, policy, and implementation.
Currently, I serve as the State Lead at A-PAG, managing operations in Bihar. Here, I continue my work on air quality management, supporting key departments and municipal corporations in designing and executing solutions that are both locally grounded and scientifically informed.
Looking back, IIFM gave me not just the academic grounding but also the perspective to work across scales—from grassroots projects to state-level policy frameworks. Every step since then has helped me grow as a professional committed to sustainable development and public policy.
Q. What were some of the key milestones/learning in this journey that you would like to share with us?
A. Over the years, my professional journey has taken me through diverse geographies, institutions, and challenges—but a common thread has been my commitment to environmental sustainability and public systems strengthening.
One of the earliest milestones in my journey was my experience as a Technical Expert with the Gujarat State Watershed Management Agency. Working at the district level, across 18 Integrated Watershed Development Projects, gave me a solid foundation in field-based implementation, community engagement, and multi-stakeholder coordination—skills that continue to serve me well even today.
Moving to Bihar’s Environment & Forest Department as a Project Management Officer was another turning point. I got the chance to lead efforts under flagship programmes like the Hariyali Mission and Namami Gange, where I learned how critical inter-departmental coordination, strong planning, and monitoring frameworks are for delivering tangible outcomes at scale.
My time with the DFID-UK-funded Action on Climate Today (ACT) initiative helped me transition from implementation to policy advisory and technical expertise. I worked closely with the state government to mainstream climate resilience into sectoral planning—this experience shaped my understanding of how evidence-based inputs and systems thinking can influence long-term strategies.
Another significant milestone was joining The University of Chicago Trust, where I supported Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board in curbing air pollution. Here, I realized how urban environmental issues, especially air quality, demand not just good data and policy but also institutional innovation and operational agility.
At A-PAG, I’ve had the opportunity to consolidate all these experiences. Leading the Dispersed Sources of Pollution programme in Bihar and implementing the Clean Air Dashboard have been rewarding milestones. One of the key learnings here has been the importance of building local ownership—whether it’s enabling field surveyors to contribute meaningfully through tech tools or ensuring government officials have real-time data to act upon.
Across roles and organizations, I’ve learned that the most sustainable impact comes from bridging the gap between policy design and ground realities, and from building coalitions—between government, citizens, and civil society—that move in sync toward a shared vision. This journey has also taught me that persistence and empathy are just as important as technical knowledge when it comes to solving complex public problems.
Q. What is the most satisfying part in your career?
A. My experience at A-PAG has been deeply fulfilling and intellectually stimulating. As the State Lead for Bihar, I’ve had the opportunity to work at the intersection of governance, technology, and impact, supporting various state and municipal bodies in addressing the challenge of air pollution through both strategic and operational interventions.
What makes A-PAG unique is its problem-solving approach grounded in data and implementation reality. We don’t just recommend solutions—we work shoulder-to-shoulder with government departments to co-design, pilot, and scale them. The Dispersed Sources of Pollution (DSP) programme, our flagship intervention currently running in 14 cities, has given me the chance to directly tackle on-ground issues like construction dust, open waste, and road dust—often overlooked yet significant contributors to poor air quality. Seeing visible improvements through our work has been incredibly motivating.
One of the most exciting parts of my role has been leading the implementation of the Clean Air Dashboard in Bihar. This tool has transformed how we coordinate between departments, monitor field-level action, and ensure accountability—all through a simple, tech-enabled system. From geo-tagged surveys conducted via mobile phones to real-time issue tracking and resolution workflows, we’ve helped bring structure and transparency into a space that was traditionally opaque and paper-heavy.
What I value most about A-PAG is its emphasis on systems thinking and collaboration—whether it’s working with software developers, frontline workers, or senior government officials, there is a constant effort to create bridges and unlock collective action. The organization’s broader vision of improving quality of life through cleaner air aligns closely with my personal commitment to environmental governance, and I feel fortunate to be part of a mission-driven team that blends evidence, empathy, and execution so effectively.
Q. Has your learning at IIFM helped in shaping how you approach your professional roles?
A. Absolutely—IIFM has had a foundational influence on how I approach my work, both in terms of mindset and method.
The curriculum at IIFM was designed not just to build technical knowledge, but to help us think holistically—across environmental, social, and institutional dimensions. Whether we were studying natural resource management, governance systems, or development economics, the emphasis was always on real-world relevance and field applicability. This training has stayed with me throughout my career.
Another defining aspect was the blend of academic rigor and grassroots exposure. The fieldwork components, rural practicums, and internships taught me how to listen deeply, observe context, and adapt interventions to the local realities. These experiences have directly shaped the way I now design, implement, and monitor programmes—whether I’m dealing with watershed projects, climate action initiatives, or urban air pollution interventions.
My time at IIFM was also enriched by active involvement in clubs and committees—which were more than just extracurriculars; they were leadership laboratories. I had the opportunity to serve as the Coordinator of the Entrepreneurial Development Cell, where I worked with a team to conceptualize events, bring in sponsors, and manage end-to-end execution. The experience honed my skills in team coordination, stakeholder engagement, and resource mobilization—skills that have been extremely useful in my current roles, especially when managing multi-stakeholder programmes and implementing system-level interventions.
IIFM also instilled in me the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration—working at the intersection of environment, public policy, and governance. This has been critical in my current role at A-PAG, where we collaborate with multiple government departments, municipal bodies, and civil society actors to solve systemic problems.
Beyond academics and leadership roles, IIFM gave me a strong value framework—about ethical engagement, inclusivity, and sustainability—that continues to guide my decisions and leadership approach. In many ways, it laid the intellectual and emotional groundwork for the kind of professional I’ve become.
Q. Who (or what) are the biggest influences or drivers in your careers? What would be your advice to freshers and IIFM graduates who are looking to choose similar sectors/roles.
A. A few key drivers have shaped my career path over the years.
First and foremost, the exposure I received at IIFM played a pivotal role. The institute didn’t just teach us environmental management—it instilled in us the mindset to think systemically, act ethically, and stay grounded in field realities. The diversity of classroom discussions, field visits, and interactions with practitioners helped me connect the dots between policy, community, and ecology early on.
Professionally, I’ve drawn a lot of inspiration from mentors and colleagues who’ve shown what it means to work with integrity and clarity in complex public systems. Working closely with state governments, central ministries, donor agencies, and tech innovators has constantly challenged me to learn and adapt. I’ve also been deeply influenced by the idea that public systems reform requires patience, empathy, and persistence—qualities that are often underrated but critical to long-term success.
As for advice to freshers and IIFM graduates interested in this space:
- Stay open to learning from the field – Whether you’re working in a village watershed project or a state-level policy initiative, real insights come from understanding how people interact with systems on the ground. Never underestimate the power of field exposure.
- Be comfortable with complexity and ambiguity – Public sector roles, especially in environmental governance, don’t always come with clear-cut paths or quick wins. But if you stay curious and solutions-oriented, you’ll find opportunities to create real impact.
- Develop interdisciplinary skills – Learn how to read data, use digital tools, manage teams, write policy notes, and communicate effectively with stakeholders from all walks of life. Roles in this sector increasingly demand a mix of technical, managerial, and soft skills.
- Look for purpose, not just position – Titles may vary, but what truly matters is whether the work aligns with your values and allows you to contribute meaningfully. If your work improves even one process, system, or outcome—it’s worth doing.
Finally, always remember: you don’t have to be in a big position to make a big difference. The sector needs committed professionals who are willing to stay the course, keep improving, and help build a better future through collaborative action.
Q. What are your favorite memories during your IIFM days?
A. It’s honestly hard to pick just one—there are way too many to fit in here! Some of my fondest memories are the simple, everyday moments that turned into unforgettable stories. Partying with batchmates , midnight birthday celebrations, random chai breaks that turned into deep conversations, and those long walks around the beautiful green campus under starlit skies—all of them are etched in my heart.
The grasslands and lake surrounding the campus were special in their own right—being out in nature with friends, learning beyond the classroom, and soaking in the raw beauty of the landscape. And of course, the weekend getaways to nearby spots around Bhopal—they were the perfect escape and bonding time, filled with laughter, music, and the joy of exploring new places together.
IIFM gave me not just an education or a career foundation—it gave me a tribe, a second home, and memories that continue to bring a smile no matter where I am today.
Q. In hindsight, what was the biggest contribution or take away from IIFM that you think played a critical role in shaping you as an individual or professional?
A. Looking back, I think the biggest takeaway from IIFM was the holistic approach to learning that seamlessly blended academic rigor with practical, real-world insights. If I had to pinpoint one specific contributor, it would be the faculty—their expertise, mentorship, and ability to challenge us to think critically and beyond textbooks played a massive role in shaping my professional approach. They didn’t just teach us the theory; they made us question the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of everything, pushing us to think about real-world impact. That mindset has been invaluable in my career.
Another huge contributor was the peer network. The friends I made at IIFM weren’t just classmates—they were collaborators, sounding boards, and lifelong connections. We constantly challenged each other, shared ideas, and grew together. The collective energy of a cohort so passionate about the environment and development created a powerful support system.
The library and research resources at IIFM were also key in broadening my understanding of environmental issues and policy frameworks. It helped me build a solid knowledge base that has been fundamental in my work and my career in general.
Lastly, the alumni network was always something I looked up to. I remember seeing alumni return for guest lectures and offering mentorship, which sparked my interest in giving back once I was in a position to do so. The strong alumni connection has been a constant source of guidance and inspiration throughout my professional journey.
All in all, it was the combination of rigorous academics, practical exposure, a supportive peer network, and the wisdom.
Q. The best buddies / seniors /faculty at IIFM? Some memorable tidbits that you like to share?
A. It is somewhat difficult to respond to this question, as I spent the majority of my time at IIFM in the company of friends, often in their rooms rather than my own. However, if I were to mention a few close friends, Shashi and Nagendra have been among my most cherished companions. We shared numerous meaningful moments together—ranging from academic discussions to off-campus excursions. We undertook several trips, which not only strengthened our friendship but also enriched our outlook on life. These experiences and friendships are invaluable to me and continue to live vividly in my memories.
During my time at IIFM, I was an active member of nearly all major cells and committees, which provided me with numerous opportunities to organize and lead various activities. I also served as the Coordinator of the Entrepreneurship Development Cell (EDC), where I had the privilege of organizing Daksh—a national-level Business Plan competition—along with my team. Successfully managing this event remains one of the most memorable highlights of my academic journey. I was fortunate to receive invaluable guidance from Professor P.K. Biswas, whose mentorship greatly shaped my perspective and approach.
Q. What was your typical day at work? And how does it look like while you are on a break?
A. On a typical day at work, my day starts early, as I like to get a head start on emails and planning for the day ahead. By the time I reach the office, I usually have a pretty clear idea of what needs to be prioritized. My role at A-PAG requires me to be highly involved in both strategic and operational aspects, so the day often includes reviewing project statuses, coordinating with various teams, and liaising with government bodies or other stakeholders to ensure smooth execution of air quality improvement programs. I spend a lot of time overseeing the Dispersed Sources of Pollution (DSP) programme, tracking the progress of pilot projects, and troubleshooting any challenges faced by our field teams or partners. A significant part of my day also revolves around reviewing the Clean Air Dashboard and ensuring issues raised by the surveyors are addressed effectively and on time.
Meetings, whether internal or with government officials, are a constant—whether discussing the latest data trends, collaborating on new initiatives, or brainstorming strategies for scaling our programs across states. No two days are exactly the same, but they’re always busy, purposeful, and mission-driven.
On a break day, it’s a different rhythm altogether. I try to disconnect from the work grind—perhaps catching up on household chores, relaxing with a cup of tea, or enjoying a few moments of quiet reflection. Weekend time with family is my go-to way to recharge and regain focus. Every once in a while, I like to sit with my Bihar team for a fun get-together or a small party. It’s something we do once every month or two, and it helps us loosen up, build stronger team bonds, and just unwind from the intensity of our work. I also enjoy visiting religious and spiritual places, as it gives me a sense of peace and grounding. These breaks are crucial to maintaining a balance between the high-paced work environment and personal well-being.
Q. And how about weekends, hobbies, family and anything else you want to add?
A. For the past two to three years, I’ve been deeply involved in the construction of my new home in Patna.This project took up a significant portion of my time, particularly most weekends, as I had to prioritize it. Building a home today requires immense investment—physically, mentally, and financially. The attention to detail, from interiors to paint and furniture, involved a lot of decision-making and effort. It was a challenging but rewarding experience, and it definitely added a new dimension to my personal life.
Q. Favorite Books, movies, authors?
A. To be honest, I don’t consider myself a well-read individual, and I haven’t followed specific authors or genres closely. Hence, I might not be the right person to answer this question accurately.
Q. IIFM is driven by alumni’s passion and commitments towards its goal. How would you like to contribute to IIFM or IIFM alumni, students? Your engagement with IIFM Placement or OT/SI?
A. IIFM has given me a solid foundation and a lifelong network—so giving back to the institute in any way I can is something I truly look forward to.
As of now, I’m associated with A-PAG, which is still a relatively new and growing organization. We haven’t yet started hiring directly from campuses, and even for entry-level roles, there’s typically a requirement of at least a couple of years of work experience. That said, as we continue to expand and evolve, I’ll be more than happy to coordinate with the IIFM Placement Committee when suitable opportunities arise. I’m confident that the kind of talent IIFM nurtures would align well with the values and mission of A-PAG.
On the internship front, I’d be happy to explore the possibility of hosting students for summer internships or short-term projects, especially in areas related to field research, environmental governance, air quality, and program implementation. Even if opportunities are limited, I’ll do my best to create meaningful engagements for interested students.
Q. What do you think is different at IIFM now vs when you studied there?
A. Though I haven’t been closely in touch with the institute’s pedagogy in recent years, I’ve been fortunate to stay updated through interactions with recent graduates. In fact, I recently hired Rishabh(PFM 2021-23) from IIFM, and he’s been my go-to source for all the recent updates from campus. From what I’ve gathered, a lot has evolved in a very positive direction. The number of organizations visiting the campus for placements and internships has significantly increased compared to our time. It’s encouraging to see that the corporate and development sector is recognizing the unique blend of ecological and managerial expertise that IIFM students bring to the table. Another major change is the introduction of industry-oriented courses, many of which are being taught by distinguished alumni. This not only bridges the gap between academia and the real-world needs of the sector but also strengthens the sense of community and continuity within the IIFM ecosystem.
What’s also heartening is the stronger alumni engagement—be it through mentorship, placements, guest lectures, or collaboration on projects. There’s a real sense of alumni taking pride in giving back, and I’m glad to be part of that growing circle.
While the essence of IIFM—the ethos, the learning environment, and the bond among students—remains timeless, these developments make me very optimistic about the future of the institute and its students.
Q. Any suggestions on who you want to get profiled/interviewed here?
A. It would be great to hear journey of Devanshu Chakravarti Sir (PFM 1996-98), Rishu Garg Sir (PFM 2000-02), Rohit Singh (PFM 2010-12), Shashi Kumar Yadav (PFM 2010-12).