Manish Kumar from Dumka, Jharkhand, grew up surrounded by nature. His father, a daily-wage worker, often accompanied forest officers into the jungle, teaching Manish the importance of forests and wildlife. Inspired by these early experiences, Manish later made a bold decision—leaving a city job at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) just one month after joining to pursue his true calling in nature and public service.
Early Life and Education
Coming from a modest background, Manish’s parents supported him as much as they could through his studies. His hard work paid off when he secured a job at TCS at the age of 24. But city life, far from his family and the forests he loved, did not give him peace of mind.
Leaving TCS for Inner Peace
Manish initially worked in a finance company and then joined TCS in Kolkata. Despite a good salary, he felt restless in the city’s hectic lifestyle. In an interview with Maanikontrol, he said, “I realized that a corporate life was not for me. I was not finding the mental peace I needed.”
Pursuing a Government Career in Forests
Determined to stay close to his roots and nature, Manish resigned from TCS within a month. With his father’s encouragement, he prepared for government exams from home using online resources and YouTube.
Within six months, he successfully cleared the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) exams for Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) and Forest Range Officer (FRO) posts. Today, as a Sub-Beet Officer (Forester), Manish serves not only his family but also the country—protecting wildlife, preventing forest crimes, and promoting eco-tourism in the region.
Giving Back to Nature and Community
Manish now manages a government eco-tourism resort near Masanjor Dam, contributing to local tourism development while applying the lessons about forests and wildlife that his father taught him as a child. His journey from a city IT job to the forests of Jharkhand is a source of inspiration for young people who dream of serving their country while staying close to nature.