IAS V. Vigneshwari is a 2015 Batch officer of Kerala cadre and is currently posted as District Collector of Idukki, Kerala.Her Vision for the district focuses on strategic holistic development by addressing unique challenges of migration, education and livelihoods through community-driven initiatives.

Fulfilling Children’s Dreams through “Chinna Chinna Aashi”

She launched a unique and heartwarming initiative called “Chinna Chinna Aashi”meaning “small desires of children.” Under this effort, wishes of children in welfare homes were collected and fulfilled with the help of local sponsors on Children’s Day. “To bring some joy, we started this small initiative” she said. 

Long-Term Educational Support 

Recognising that these children are not orphans but come from families who either can’t afford education or live too far from schools, she is now working to find long-term sponsors so that these children can either stay with their families and continue their studies or be admitted to boarding schools where needed.

“Pursuit of Happiness” for Higher Education

To further support financially backward students, a new project titled “Pursuit of Happiness” has been launched to sponsor their education.

Promoting Adoption of Older Children

For orphans and semi-orphans, especially older children aged 13–14, she is actively promoting adoption. “Since most people prefer adopting infants, we’re highlighting success stories to encourage older child adoption” she explained.

Extended Crèches for Plantation Workers’ Children

Understanding the needs of plantation workers, Vigneshwari is addressing gaps in child care by introducing extended crèche facilities. “While there are crèches, they shut by 3 PM. Parents return home only by 6–7 PM. So, we’re launching this to keep children safe,” she said, referring to the new 7 AM to 7 PM crèche model.

Sustainable Tourism  

In the tourism sector, she aims to promote eco and sustainable tourism to improve infrastructure and services.” We’re planning “Idukki Plaza”a public-private project with community participation—to support street vendors and create better tourist infrastructure.” 

Empowering Local Skilled Workforce

Additionally To encourage local entrepreneurship and skilling, she noted that Idukki already has a skilled workforce trained in tourism, wellness, and food services “We plan to create small groups of 5–6 skilled individuals to offer customized tourism services from local tours to photography and wellness” she said

Launching a CSR Portal for Development Partnerships

To bring together resources, Vigneshwari is also launching a CSR portal where companies, individuals, and volunteers can contribute financially or through services to the district’s development.

With an ambitious vision, IAS Vigneshwari is working towards building a more inclusive, self-reliant, sustainable, and empowered Idukki.