Ms. Upma Srivastava, former Member Secretary, Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF), & Secretary, National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC), breathed her last breath at a private hospital in Saket on Thursday night after battling cancer. She was 60. She is survived by her daughter Ms. Anandi, her husband Mr. Deepak Ji and her sister Ms. Poonam Srivastava. Her lifeless body was brought to her home in new Motibagh wherein her kith and kin visited to pay heartfelt condolences. The funeral ceremony took place on Friday at Lodhi Road crematorium grounds. Ms. Upma Srivastava recently retired from the post of Member Secretary, DAF, on 31.07.2023.
Hailing from the state of Uttar Pradesh, Ms. Srivastava held B.Sc. in Physics, M.Sc. in Statistics, M.Phil. in Public Administration and M.B.A. from a University in the United Kingdom. Belonging to the 1988 batch, she served Sikkim in many positions such as Sub-Divisional Administration / Land Revenue Management & District Administration, OSD, District Collector, Additional Secretary and so on. Her journey during her central deputation from 2017 onwards stands as an inspiring tale of exceptional achievement.
Advancing to the role of Joint Secretary of Civil Aviation showcased her adaptability and strategic acumen, contributing significantly to the sector’s advancement. Progressing to Additional Secretary at Agriculture & Farmers Welfare demonstrated her commitment to rural development and sustainable agriculture, empowering farmers and strengthening the agrarian domain.
Further ascending, she assumed the mantle of Additional Secretary at Social Justice & Empowerment, emerging as a champion of inclusivity and societal welfare, dedicated to uplifting marginalised communities and ensuring equal opportunities. In due course, her elevation to the position of Secretary of Social Justice & Empowerment at the central level marked the pinnacle of her unwavering efforts and remarkable leadership. Her transformative ability and advocacy for marginalised sections propelled the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) and Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC) to unparalleled achievements.
The funeral ceremony was attended by the Former Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Ms. Anjali Bhawra, Former Member Secretary, DAF, Ms. Rashmi Chowdhury, Senior Officials of various Ministries, Senior Officials from NCSC, Senior Officials of Sikkim Cadres were present. Apart from these officials, Financial Advisor, Shri. Anil Kumar Raina, SAO, Shri Nandu Shaw, Shri Gaurav Meena (NSL), Editor, DAF, Shri Sudhir Hilsayan, Assistant, DAF, Shri Prashant Poddar, Consultant, DAF, Shri Anil Rawat, Consultant, DAF, Shri A.K. Singh, Junior Engineer-I, Shri Subhash Kumar, Junior Engineer-II, DAIC, Shri Mukesh Mandal, Robinson (DAIC), and other officials of DAIC and DAF were also present at the event.
Every aspect of the last rites was carried out meticulously at the Lodhi Road crematorium grounds by Ms. Poonam Srivastava, elder sister of Ms. Upma Srivastava.
Ms. Srivastava’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide those who carry forward the mission of the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) and Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC). Her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to social justice serve as a beacon of light in a world that still strives for equality and empowerment for all.
In a heart-warming display of solidarity and respect, Dr. Vikas Trivedi, Director, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC), was also present at the crematorium ground and gave his moral support to the bereaved family. As the DAF and DAIC team mourns the loss of a remarkable frontrunner, it is heartening to witness the deep bonds of unity and respect that have come to the fore during this time of remembrance. The legacy of Ms. Upma Srivastava lives on, forever etched in the hearts and minds of all who have been touched by her indomitable spirit. May her soul respect in peace.
