Mr. Bhatnagar began his career as an Assistant Professor of Economics. Demonstrating public service aptitude, he qualified for the All India Civil Services Examination (1982) and joined the IRS (1983). For continuous professional growth, he completed an Executive General Management Programme at IIM Bangalore and obtained certifications in Investigation, Cyber Crimes, and Money Laundering from the University of Maryland and Duke University, along with a “Soft Skills and Management for Senior Management” course from IIM Bangalore.
On December 1, 2017, he became Director General of the IIST Group of Institutes, leading to unprecedented growth. Notably, under his leadership, IIST Indore achieved NAAC A+, while IIP and IIMR Indore both secured NAAC A grades in their first cycles, reflecting his commitment to quality assurance and institutional excellence.
DIVERSE ROLES AND SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS
Mr. Bhatnagar’s distinguished career encompasses diverse roles and significant contributions. During his IRS tenure, he conducted in-depth investigations of complex IT cases across India. As Additional Director General at the National Academy of Direct Taxes, he was crucial in training IRS probationers and senior Income Tax officials. He also forged strategic partnerships with international universities, governments, and IIMs and led major infrastructure projects.
Selected by the Indian government under the UNDP Programme to study the Australian taxation system, he subsequently established the first Model Range in Chennai. After retiring as Principal Commissioner of Income Tax, Mr. Bhatnagar directed business development and marketing in the corporate sector until 2017. Additionally, as a published poet, his work Shiv Se Samvad has been well received.
STRATEGIC PERSPECTIVE AND INNOVATIVE INITIATIVES
Mr. Bhatnagar’s strategic vision is focused on elevating the IIST Group of Institutes to a position of national and international eminence. He spearheaded the implementation of the Samagra Samutkarsha Yojana, a holistic programme meticulously designed to foster the comprehensive development of students by addressing both their intrinsic and extrinsic growth. By seamlessly integrating personal development with the acquisition of academic and professional competencies, this initiative empowers students to effectively navigate and address the complexities of the external world while simultaneously enhancing their Emotional-Intelligence-Spiritual Happiness Quotient. Mr. Bhatnagar also demonstrates a profound commitment to environmental sustainability, evidenced by the establishment of the “Green Waves Club.” This impactful initiative actively encourages both students and staff to participate in tree plantation drives and the practice of organic farming.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
Mr. Bhatnagar has been widely recognised for his impactful leadership, receiving honours such as the Best Practices Award from the Ministry of Finance, the “Captain of Industry” award from the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh (2019), and the “Gems of MP” award from the Railway Cabinet Minister. His contributions to education have earned him the Eminent Educationist Award 2024 by AICTE and the Transformational Leader in Education Award 2025 at the National Education Summit. A respected speaker, he shares insights on personal excellence. His talks continue to inspire professionals and students alike to pursue purposeful and balanced lives. Yet, he considers the love and respect of his students to be his greatest reward.
