India

Wayanad Collector Meghashree D.R. Takes Maternity Leave After Brief Post-Delivery Return to Work

By Shaju Philip

Meghashree D.R., the Collector of Kerala's Wayanad district, will begin her two-month maternity leave on Wednesday, September 17, 2026. She will hand over her responsibilities to her successor, Chelsasini V. Meghashree, a 2017-batch IAS officer, gave birth to her third daughter on August 25. She returned to work from her camp office on September 1, six days after delivery, to address official duties and files requiring her sanction. On August 24, she completed her official duties before checking into a hospital. On Tuesday, September 16, 2026, Meghashree brought her three daughters, including her newborn, to her farewell ceremony at the District Collectorate office. She stated that her decision to continue working after delivery was personal and not mandatory, emphasizing that such decisions depend on an individual's health and circumstances. Meghashree, who describes herself on social media as an “IAS officer, wife, mother, proud daughter,” also conducted an online interaction with college students as part of her “Good Morning Collector” program. On September 5, she posted an Instagram video showing her in the field and answering questions. When asked about the biggest game-changer for Wayanad, she responded, “All of it, in a way. Development, empowerment and conservation should go hand in hand.” A native of Chitradurga, Karnataka, Meghashree assumed the role of Wayanad District Collector on July 10, 2024. She led rescue and relief operations following a landslide in the district on July 30 and has been involved in the rehabilitation of survivors and the construction of a new township.