From Maharashtra to Uttarakhand: IPS Akshay Konde’s Inspiring Journey of Service and Sacrifice
IPS Akshay Prahlad Konde is one of the young and energetic officers of the Uttarakhand Police, having joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) as part of the 2018 batch. He is known for his calm demeanor, professional work style, and a sensitive approach towards law and order. He secured his place in the IPS after clearing the prestigious Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and is currently counted among the key officers of the Uttarakhand cadre. Early Life and Education Akshay Prahlad Konde hails from Maharashtra. From childhood, he maintained an interest in understanding society and the administrative system alongside his academic pursuits. He completed both his early and higher education in Maharashtra. The UPSC Journey Akshay Konde cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2017, leading to his induction into the Indian Police Service (IPS) in the 2018 batch. Initially allotted the Tripura cadre, he was later transferred to the Uttarakhand cadre on the grounds of marriage. This inter-cadre transfer was effected in August 2020 through a notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. Police Service Journey After completing his training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad, he undertook various responsibilities within the Uttarakhand Police. Key responsibilities held during his career include: In every role, he placed special emphasis on maintaining law and order, ensuring road safety, controlling crime, and fostering better communication with the general public. His administrative competence and leadership qualities led to his posting in a district like Rudraprayag, which holds significant religious importance and is considered a sensitive area. Akshay Prahlad Konde’s wife, Akansha Konde (née Akansha Verma), is an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 2018 batch, serving in the Uttarakhand cadre. Akshay Konde’s cadre was transferred from Tripura to Uttarakhand following their marriage. Work Style Akshay Konde’s work style reflects a balance between discipline and sensitivity. He views policing not merely as a means to enforce the law, but as a way to build trust within society. His priorities included— His administrative role has been particularly significant in a mountainous state like Uttarakhand, which hosts the Char Dham Yatra and other major religious events.
‘Singham’ IAS Officer Tukaram Mundhe Back in Action: Surprise FDA Raids Spark Public Praise Across Maharashtra
Senior IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe, who has been transferred 25 times during his 21-year career, is once again in the spotlight. Appointed as the FDA Commissioner by the Maharashtra government in the first week of June, he immediately launched a fresh wave of raids and strict enforcement drives against adulterators and the illegal drug trade. He has clearly stated that this campaign is not directed at any specific individual but is a well-planned move to safeguard public health, and that honest businesses have no reason to fear it. Senior IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe currently serves as the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Maharashtra. He is renowned for his strict stance against corruption and his disciplined approach. Prior to assuming the role of FDA Commissioner in June, he had undergone transfers in March and April as well; these marked his 24th and 25th transfers, moving him from the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities to the Revenue Department. Since taking charge as FDA Commissioner, he has initiated surprise inspections and stringent enforcement actions across the state, earning him widespread praise from the general public and on social media. His work style has led to comparisons with Haryana’s famous IAS officer Ashok Khemka. Due to his bold and uncompromising style, Mundhe is often referred to as “Singham” and the “Man of Mission.” He is known for refusing to yield to political pressure and for taking direct action against the sand mafia, land mafia, and corrupt officials. Tukaram Mundhe was born on June 3, 1975, in Tadsona village, Beed district, Maharashtra. He hailed from a very humble background. He received his early education at a Zilla Parishad school before moving to Aurangabad for higher studies. He earned a bachelor’s degree in History and a master’s degree in Political Science. After clearing the UPSC examination in 2005, he became an IAS officer. His first posting as an IAS officer was in Solapur, where he immediately crippled the mafia by conducting continuous raids on illegal liquor dens, shooting to fame overnight.