Mr. Mahendra Kumar Yadava is a senior Indian Forest Service officer currently serving as Special Chief Secretary to the Government of Assam, Environment & Forest Department. With a distinguished career spanning governance, environmental management, digital transformation, and technology-driven public administration, he has played a pivotal role in policy formulation, institutional reforms, and sustainable development initiatives at both state and national levels.

Advanced Education, Training & Certifications

Mr. Yadava has consistently pursued advanced and interdisciplinary learning, particularly at the intersection of artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and governance. He is presently enrolled in an Online Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) in AI & ML from Walsh College & Great Lakes @ Texas University at Austin, after successfully completing a PGDM in AI & ML.

His international academic credentials include the Stanford Advanced Cybersecurity Program from Stanford University (Ranked No. 1), along with specialized training in Machine Learning & AI (IIT Bombay). In addition, he has completed multiple executive and mid-career leadership and management programs from IIM Bengaluru, IIM Lucknow, IIM Kolkata, and prestigious international institutions in the USA, reflecting a rare blend of administrative leadership and cutting-edge technological expertise.

Research, Publications & Thought Leadership

Mr. Yadava has authored 20 research publications and several landmark government reports and policy documents. His major works include the Baghjan Oil Well Blowout Environmental Damage Enquiry Report, Tiger Conservation Plan of Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, and comprehensive reports on Kaziranga National Park and Rhino Conservation, which have significantly influenced conservation policy, judicial deliberations, and long-term ecological management strategies. He has also authored seven forest working plans, demonstrating deep technical expertise in sustainable forest management.

Awards & Recognitions

His contributions have been widely recognized through prestigious honors such as the Maati Samman (2023), Tech Sabha Award (2018), IDC Best e-Governance Award, Skoch “World is Open” Award, and Dataquest Best e-Governance State Award. These accolades underscore his impact in e-governance, open-source initiatives, digital inclusion, and technology-enabled public service delivery.

International Exposure, Conferences & Policy Engagement

Mr. Yadava has represented India and Assam at numerous national and international conferences, ISO/IEC standards meetings, global technology forums, and study tours across the UK, USA, Germany, China, and Nepal. He has served as a distinguished panelist, chair, and speaker on topics ranging from technology for development, digital reforms, GIS, forestry policy, and environmental governance.

Eligibility for the Most Determined Researcher Award 

Mr. Mahendra Kumar Yadava is highly eligible for the “Most Determined Researcher Award” under Scientific Laurels due to his exceptional perseverance and sustained commitment to research alongside demanding senior administrative responsibilities. His continuous pursuit of advanced degrees in AI & ML, high-impact research publications, authorship of authoritative environmental and conservation reports, and long-term contribution to evidence-based policymaking exemplify extraordinary determination in advancing scientific, technological, and applied research. His work bridges science, governance, and real-world impact, making him a distinguished and deserving candidate for this honor.