Asif K Yusuf, a 2016-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Kerala cadre, has carved a niche for himself in India’s bureaucratic landscape. Known for his dedication to public service, Yusuf’s career trajectory reflects both commendable achievements and significant controversies.
Early Life and Education
Asif K Yusuf was born in Kerala, India, into a family with a modest background. Details about his exact birth date and family are not widely publicized, as is typical for many IAS officers who maintain a low personal profile. Growing up in Kerala, a state known for its high literacy rates and progressive social policies, Yusuf was exposed to an environment that valued education and community service.
Yusuf pursued his schooling in Kerala, excelling academically and demonstrating leadership qualities early on. He went on to complete his higher education, though specific details about his undergraduate institution or degree remain scarce in public records. His academic prowess and determination led him to prepare for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, one of the most competitive exams in India.
In 2015, Yusuf cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination with an All India Rank (AIR) of 215, securing his entry into the prestigious IAS under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) non-creamy layer category. His success was celebrated as a testament to hard work, especially given his background, but it later became the focal point of a major controversy.
Career in the Indian Administrative Service
Asif K Yusuf joined the IAS in 2016 and was allotted the Kerala cadre. His early postings included roles that allowed him to engage directly with grassroots governance, shaping his understanding of administrative challenges in a diverse state like Kerala. Below is an overview of his key postings:
- Sub-Collector, Thalassery: One of Yusuf’s initial significant roles was as the Sub-Collector of Thalassery, where he handled land revenue, law and order, and developmental projects. His tenure here was marked by efforts to streamline administrative processes, though it later came under scrutiny due to allegations related to his UPSC selection.
- District Development Commissioner, Kollam: By 2020, Yusuf was appointed as the District Development Commissioner in Kollam. In this role, he oversaw developmental initiatives, coordinated with local bodies, and worked on improving public service delivery. His work was noted for its focus on rural development and cooperative governance.
- Managing Director, Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (MILMA): In September 2022, Yusuf was transferred to serve as the Managing Director of MILMA, a prominent cooperative responsible for dairy development in Kerala. This role highlighted his ability to manage large-scale public enterprises, contributing to the state’s dairy sector growth.
Throughout his career, Yusuf has been recognized for his administrative acumen and commitment to public welfare. However, his journey has not been without challenges, particularly due to controversies that have questioned his integrity.
Recent News and Controversies
Asif K Yusuf has been embroiled in a significant controversy related to his UPSC selection, which has cast a shadow over his otherwise promising career. Below are the details of the allegations and recent developments:
Allegations of Forged OBC Certificate
In 2020, a probe by the Kerala government revealed irregularities in the income certificate Yusuf submitted to claim OBC non-creamy layer benefits during his UPSC application. The Central Government’s guidelines stipulate that candidates whose parents’ gross annual income exceeds ₹6 lakh for three consecutive years fall under the creamy layer and are ineligible for OBC reservation. According to income tax records, Yusuf’s parents had a combined income of ₹21.80 lakh in 2012-13, ₹23.05 lakh in 2013-14, and ₹28.71 lakh in 2014-15, rendering him ineligible for the non-creamy layer category.
The Kanayannur Tahsildar canceled Yusuf’s income and OBC certificates based on the Revenue Department’s order. The Union Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions (DoPT) recommended disciplinary action, including the cancellation of his IAS appointment. Despite these findings, the Kerala government has not yet acted decisively, leading to accusations of bureaucratic inaction.
Removal from Election Duty in Tamil Nadu
In March 2021, Yusuf was recalled from his role as an election observer in Tamil Nadu by the Election Commission of India. This decision was linked to the ongoing investigation into his OBC certificate, which raised concerns about his eligibility to hold sensitive posts. He was replaced by Dr. Sharmila Mary Joseph, IAS, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations.
Supreme Court Developments
As of June 2025, posts on X indicate that the controversy has reached the Supreme Court, with concerns raised about Yusuf’s alleged use of a forged OBC certificate to gain an unfair advantage in the UPSC exam. The DoPT’s inaction despite confirming the fraud has drawn criticism from activists and the public, who argue that it undermines the integrity of the civil services. These claims, however, remain inconclusive without official court rulings or further evidence.
Public and Media Sentiment
The controversy has sparked polarized reactions. Some view Yusuf as a victim of bureaucratic delays and political vendettas, while others see the allegations as a breach of trust in a system meant to uphold meritocracy. RTI activist Vijay Kumbhar has been vocal about the case, amplifying calls for accountability. The lack of resolution has kept the issue alive, making it a focal point in discussions about UPSC reforms and reservation policies.
Personal Profile
Little is known about Asif K Yusuf’s personal life, as he maintains a low profile outside his professional duties. He is believed to be married, but details about his family are not publicly available. Yusuf is described by colleagues as diligent and approachable, with a keen interest in rural development and cooperative movements. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration, though critics argue that the ongoing controversy has affected his public image.
Yusuf’s hobbies and personal interests are not well-documented, but his career choices suggest a passion for public service and governance. His ability to navigate complex administrative roles, such as managing MILMA, reflects a strategic mindset and adaptability.
Impact and Legacy
Asif K Yusuf’s career is a study in contrasts—marked by significant contributions to Kerala’s administrative framework and overshadowed by a controversy that questions his entry into the IAS. His work in MILMA and rural development has positively impacted communities, but the unresolved allegations continue to define his public narrative. The outcome of the Supreme Court proceedings and the Kerala government’s response will likely shape his legacy.
Top 5 Interesting Facts About Asif K Yusuf, IAS
- UPSC Success: Yusuf secured an All India Rank of 215 in the 2015 UPSC Civil Services Examination, a remarkable achievement given the exam’s competitiveness.
- MILMA Leadership: As Managing Director of MILMA, Yusuf has played a key role in strengthening Kerala’s dairy cooperative sector, a vital contributor to the state’s economy.
- Controversial Entry: Allegations of submitting a forged OBC certificate have made Yusuf a central figure in debates about reservation policies and UPSC integrity.
- Election Observer Recall: In 2021, Yusuf was recalled from election duty in Tamil Nadu due to the certificate controversy, a rare move by the Election Commission.
- Supreme Court Scrutiny: As of 2025, his case is reportedly under review by the Supreme Court, highlighting systemic issues in civil service recruitment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Asif K Yusuf, IAS?
Asif K Yusuf is a 2016-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre, currently serving as the Managing Director of MILMA. He cleared the UPSC exam in 2015 with an AIR of 215.
Asif K Yusuf is a 2016-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre, currently serving as the Managing Director of MILMA. He cleared the UPSC exam in 2015 with an AIR of 215.
2. What is the controversy surrounding Asif K Yusuf?
Yusuf is accused of submitting a forged OBC non-creamy layer certificate to avail reservation benefits in the UPSC exam. Investigations confirmed his parents’ income exceeded the eligibility threshold, but no final action has been taken.
Yusuf is accused of submitting a forged OBC non-creamy layer certificate to avail reservation benefits in the UPSC exam. Investigations confirmed his parents’ income exceeded the eligibility threshold, but no final action has been taken.
3. What is Asif K Yusuf’s current posting?
As of September 2022, he is the Managing Director of the Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (MILMA).
As of September 2022, he is the Managing Director of the Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (MILMA).
4. Why was Yusuf recalled from election duty?
In 2021, the Election Commission recalled him from his role as an election observer in Tamil Nadu due to the ongoing probe into his OBC certificate.
In 2021, the Election Commission recalled him from his role as an election observer in Tamil Nadu due to the ongoing probe into his OBC certificate.
5. Is the controversy resolved?
As of June 2025, the case remains unresolved, with recent posts on X indicating Supreme Court involvement. No official verdict has been confirmed.
As of June 2025, the case remains unresolved, with recent posts on X indicating Supreme Court involvement. No official verdict has been confirmed.
Conclusion
Asif K Yusuf’s journey as an IAS officer is a complex narrative of ambition, service, and controversy. While his contributions to Kerala’s administration are noteworthy, the allegations surrounding his UPSC selection have sparked critical discussions about ethics and accountability in India’s civil services. As the case unfolds, Yusuf remains a figure to watch, embodying the challenges and aspirations of a modern Indian bureaucrat.
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