With over nine years of experience in the development sector, Mukesh Kumar Sah has worked extensively across rural livelihood, entrepreneurship development, and sustainability management. He has led diverse projects in natural resource management, watershed development, skill enhancement, and women’s economic empowerment. Mukesh has collaborated with government departments, civil society organizations, and community institutions to design and implement evidence-based, community-led livelihood initiatives. His expertise spans project management, capacity building, convergence planning, and digital and financial literacy promotion. Passionate about climate-resilient farming, biodiversity conservation, and inclusive development, he has contributed to strengthening local governance, enterprise ecosystems, and rural entrepreneurship. A graduate in Geography and Geoinformatics with an M.Phil. from the Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal, Mukesh continues to work with PRADAN, supporting large-scale capacity-building and livelihood intensification initiatives under the High Impact Mega Watershed Project in Chhattisgarh.
Location: Raipur, Chhattisgarh
Linkedin : www.linkedin.com/in/mukeshkumarsah
FB: https://www.facebook.com/mukesh.sah.1023611
Q. Tell us about your School and College before you came to IIFM. How was your experience there? And how did IIFM happen?
A. I completed my schooling at a government Hindi medium school in my hometown and pursued my college education in Assam, where I developed a strong interest in geography, the environment, and community life in rural areas. My undergraduate studies in Geography at Dibrugarh University and my Master’s in Geoinformatics at Gauhati University deepened my understanding of natural resource systems, spatial planning, and rural landscapes. These experiences shaped my curiosity about how communities interact with their environment and how sustainable development can be achieved at the grassroots level.
My exposure to fieldwork and social studies during college made me realize the need for professional training that combines ecological understanding with people-centric development. While searching for a good institute offering M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs in the environment sector, I came across the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal-an institute known for bridging the gap between environment and management. Another reason for choosing IIFM was the international tour included as part of the M.Phil. curriculum, which attracted me. My elder brother and mother came to see me off when I joined IIFM.
Joining IIFM was a turning point; it broadened my perspective on development, introduced me to multidisciplinary learning, and prepared me for a meaningful career in the development sector.
Q. How has been your journey from IIFM so far?
A. My journey since graduating from IIFM has been both enriching and transformative. The institute laid a strong foundation for understanding the interlinkages between natural resources, community development, and sustainability, which has guided every step of my professional path. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh-leading and supporting projects in rural livelihood promotion, watershed management, climate-resilient agriculture, and women’s entrepreneurship.
Each phase of this journey-from working with government departments to collaborating with civil society organizations-has strengthened my belief in the power of community-led action. IIFM’s emphasis on participatory planning and systems thinking continues to influence my approach to project design and implementation. The transition from a student of sustainable management to a practitioner in the field has been deeply fulfilling, allowing me to contribute to building more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable rural communities.
Q. What were some of the key milestones/learning in this journey that you would like to share with us?
A. Over the years, several milestones have shaped my professional and personal growth. One key learning has been the importance of listening to communities—understanding their aspirations, challenges, and local wisdom before designing any intervention. Working on the Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission in Madhya Pradesh after the campus placement from IIFM, was an early milestone, where I witnessed how integrated planning and convergence across departments can transform rural clusters.
Another defining experience was with Manjari Foundation in Rajasthan, where I led initiatives on women’s entrepreneurship and climate-smart agriculture. Seeing women farmers adopt sustainable practices and build enterprises of their own was deeply inspiring. Currently, at PRADAN, my engagement with the High Impact Mega Watershed Project in Chhattisgarh has reinforced my belief in capacity building as a powerful tool of community mobilisation for rural transformation.
Each milestone has taught me that real change is gradual, rooted in participation, partnership, and persistent engagement with people on the ground.
Q. How has your experience been in your current Organization? What all areas have you been working here?
A. My experience in PRADAN has been extremely enriching and growth oriented. Working with a team deeply committed to grassroots development has allowed me to engage closely with communities, government institutions, and partner organizations. As part of the High Impact Mega Watershed Project in Chhattisgarh, I have been leading the capacity-building initiatives under the State Project Management Unit (SPMU), focusing on enhancing the skills of field professionals, Panchayat functionaries, and community resource persons involved in watershed and livelihood planning.
Beyond training design and facilitation, my work includes strengthening institutional convergence between MGNREGA and the Yuktdhara platform, promoting evidence-based planning, and supporting digital knowledge-sharing mechanisms. I also collaborate with experts to develop training frameworks, modules, and learning tools for diverse stakeholders.
What makes this journey meaningful is PRADAN’s participatory work culture, continuous learning environment, and its vision of empowering rural communities through knowledge, empathy, and collective action.
BRLF, PRADAN and CSOs partners
Q. What is the most satisfying part in your career?
A. The most satisfying part of my career has been witnessing tangible change in the lives of rural families-seeing communities gain confidence, adopt new skills, and take ownership of their development journey. Whether it’s a group of women starting their first enterprise, farmers adopting climate-resilient practices, or a village planning its watershed interventions collectively, these moments reaffirm the purpose of my work.
What gives me the greatest sense of fulfilment is knowing that my efforts-whether through capacity building, planning, or field facilitation-help create opportunities for people to live with dignity and self-reliance. The process of learning from communities, co-creating solutions, and watching them evolve into local leaders is deeply rewarding. It reminds me that real development is not about projects or numbers but about enabling people to believe in their own potential and shaping systems that sustain that empowerment.
Q. Has your learning at IIFM helped in shaping how you approach your professional roles?
Absolutely. My learning at IIFM has been central to how I approach my professional roles even today. The institute’s unique blend of ecological understanding, social insight, and managerial rigor shaped the way I perceive development challenges and design solutions. Courses on participatory management, livelihood systems, and sustainability taught me to view issues holistically balancing environmental integrity with community well-being and economic viability.
Beyond academics, IIFM instilled in me the values of field immersion, teamwork, and reflective learning. These experiences helped me build empathy, sharpen my analytical thinking, and strengthen my commitment to community-led change. Whether it’s designing a training framework, planning a watershed project, or engaging with Panchayati Raj Institutions, I often find myself drawing from the systems-thinking and participatory approaches I learned at IIFM. It truly provided me with the foundation and perspective needed to navigate complex development contexts with both heart and mind.
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. Several influences-both people and experiences—have shaped my career. My early fieldwork during college and at IIFM exposed me to the realities of rural life and the resilience of communities, which became a constant source of motivation. I have been deeply influenced by mentors, especially Professor Om Prakash Madguni, and by colleagues who emphasized the importance of working at the grassroots level, practicing patience, and pursuing continuous learning in the development sector. Working closely with government departments, civil society organizations, and communities has taught me that collaboration and humility are the true drivers of sustainable change.
To freshers and IIFM graduates aspiring to enter this field, my advice is simple-spend more time in the field, listen to people, and understand their context before designing any solutions. Communities often hold deeper practical wisdom than academicians, and their traditional knowledge can greatly contribute to developing sustainable prototype models in the long run. I intentionally began my career at the grassroots level to gain firsthand experience rather than focusing on a high salary package. Once you gain real field experience, there will be ample opportunities for professional growth. But don’t spend more than two years on field learning. Stay grounded, keep learning, and let your sense of purpose guide your career choices rather than positions or designations.
Q. Do you plan to go for higher studies post IIFM?
A. I had always dreamed of pursuing a Ph.D. after completing my studies at IIFM. However, my professional commitments never allowed me the time to do so. Even now, I aspire to enroll in a doctoral program and earn a Ph.D., but due to work and family responsibilities, I haven’t yet been able to manage it.
Q. What are your favorite memories during your IIFM days?
A. Every moment at IIFM was truly unforgettable. I actively participated in almost every event organized on campus-be it festivals, birthday celebrations, sports activities (both indoor and outdoor), cultural evenings, night walk, hiking trips, training programs for government officials, conferences, or paper presentations by Ph.D. scholars. Among all these experiences, what I cherished the most were our informal evening gatherings before dinner. We would call our friends, meet in the hostel garden, and walk together to the dining hall. Those walks—filled with laughter, conversations, and the calm beauty of the campus followed by post-dinner strolls around the premises remain some of my fondest memories from IIFM. Another memorable moment was a special ‘non-veg’ dance that my male colleague and I used to perform and enjoy in our hostel room during weekend leave. We did it as a group, and it remains a fun and cherished memory.
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. In hindsight, the biggest contribution of IIFM in shaping me both personally and professionally was the holistic learning environment it provided. The rigorous courses and expert faculty gave me a strong foundation in my field, while the library and research resources honed my analytical and problem-solving skills. Equally important were the friendships and interactions with peers and alumni, which broadened my perspective, encouraged collaborative learning, and taught me the value of networking. Together, these experiences not only enhanced my professional knowledge but also helped me develop confidence, adaptability, and lifelong curiosity-qualities that continue to guide me in my career and personal growth.
Q. The best buddies / seniors /faculty at IIFM? Some memorable tidbits that you like to share?
A. The best part of my IIFM journey was the people – my colleague, seniors, and faculties-who made every moment memorable. My friends and classmates were always there to collaborate and celebrate, turning challenges into fun memories. The Ph.D seniors were incredibly supportive, offering guidance and sharing their experiences, which often helped me navigate both academic and personal hurdles. The faculty were not just teachers but mentors, always encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the subjects. I especially cherish moments like group discussions in the library, gardens and canteen. These connections and memories have truly enriched my time at IIFM and continue to inspire me.
Q. As an alumni, what’s your advice to freshers or those are joining IIFM to get best out of the 2 years there?
A. My advice to freshers joining IIFM would be to make the most of every opportunity-academic, co-curricular, and social. Engage actively in classes, discussions, and assignments, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or explore beyond the syllabus. Build strong relationships with peers, seniors, and faculty, as these connections often become lifelong learning and support networks. Take full advantage of the library, research resources, and workshops to deepen your knowledge. Also, participate in events, clubs, and informal gatherings-it’s these experiences that shape your personality and perspective. Most importantly, stay curious & open to new ideas, because the time at IIFM is not just about gaining knowledge, but about growing as a professional and as an individual.
Q. What would be your advice for recent graduates who look to change their sector after working for couple of years?
A. For recent graduates considering a sector change after a couple of years of work, my advice would be to approach it strategically and intentionally. First, invest time in understanding the new sector – its trends, skill requirements, and culture. Identify transferable skills from your current experience and think about how they can add value in the new domain. Upskilling through courses, certifications, or hands-on projects can help bridge any knowledge gaps. Networking is equally important-connect with professionals in the target sector to learn from their experiences and gain guidance. Lastly, be patient and open-minded; sector transitions may take time, but with clarity, preparation, and persistence, they can open doors to exciting opportunities and long-term career growth.
Q. What was your typical day at the work? And how does it look like while you are on a break?
A. A typical workday for me usually starts with planning and prioritizing tasks, followed by engaging with team members depending on project needs. I spend time analyzing data, preparing reports, and coordinating with colleagues to ensure smooth implementation of initiatives. Meetings, and collaborative problem-solving are often part of the day, keeping it dynamic and learning rich.
On a break, the pace changes completely. I use the time to relax and pursue personal interests-upgrading skills, spending time with family and friends. Breaks also give me the space to reflect on past experiences and plan for future goals.
Q. And how about weekends, hobbies, family and anything else you want to add?
A. Weekends are my time to unwind and recharge. I usually spend them catching up on power-packed sleep, cooking my favorite dishes, or exploring the outdoors. I also value spending quality time with family and friends, catching up and creating memories together. Beyond this, I enjoy exploring new learning opportunities or simply relaxing with a good movie or music. These moments outside of work are equally important in shaping a well-rounded and fulfilling life.
Q. Favorite Books, movies, authors?
A. Movies like 3 Idiots, Run, Zindagi Na Mile Dobara, and PK, which blend drama, comedy, and social-inspirational themes, are my favorites.
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?
A. IFM has given me invaluable learning, experiences, and connections, and I would love to give back by actively contributing to its alumni network and student community. I can engage by mentoring current students, sharing insights from my professional journey, and guiding them in career choices, placements, or sector transitions.
Q. What do you think is different at IIFM now vs when you studied there? When was the last time you visited IIFM?
A. IIFM has evolved significantly since my time there, with improved infrastructure, advanced learning resources, and a wider range of workshops and industry collaborations. The number of students and courses has also increased. The focus on experiential learning and student engagement appears even stronger now, reflecting the institute’s steady growth.
I last visited IIFM in October 2019, and it was inspiring to reconnect with the beautiful campus, staff, and faculties.
Q. Any suggestions on who you want to get profiled/interviewed here?
Raj Kumar Sahu (PFM 2012-14)
Vivek Jain (M.Phil NRM 2016-17)
Sushil Kumar Rai (M.Phil NRM 2016-17)
Deepak Sharma (M.Phil NRM 2018-19)