New Delhi — In a proud moment for India on the global stage, IAS officer Sonal Goel, currently serving as Secretary, Government of Tripura, was conferred the ‘D-20 Leader of Influence and Changemaker Award’ at the International Influencers Summit & Awards (IISA) held in Muscat, Oman. The prestigious event, organized by Gulf Skills Pioneers L.L.C, brought together over 300 eminent personalities, including senior ministers of the Sultanate of Oman, global policy experts, and academics.
Significantly, the recognition came on the same day Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured with Kuwait’s highest civilian award, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer, underscoring India’s rising stature in international diplomacy and leadership.
At the summit, Ms. Goel delivered a compelling keynote address advocating inclusive, people-centric development, and emphasized the importance of human capital as the bedrock of sustainable growth. Drawing connections between India’s initiatives like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and Oman’s focus on STEM education, she stressed how strategic investments in education can build resilient futures.
Participating in a high-level panel discussion, she also spotlighted India’s global leadership in climate action, including India-Oman cooperation in renewable energy and green technology. Her remarks reflected India’s growing engagement in shaping the global sustainability agenda.
The D-20 Award is presented to individuals demonstrating exceptional leadership in areas such as sustainable development, inclusive governance, and global cooperation. Ms. Goel’s award recognizes her extensive contributions to public policy, citizen engagement, and capacity building throughout her career.
About Sonal Goel
A 2008 batch IAS officer from the Tripura cadre, Sonal Goel has made a name for herself as a reform-oriented administrator. Known for her pioneering work in environmental sustainability, gender equality, and governance innovation, she has received national accolades including the SKOCH Award, MGNREGA Award, and inclusion among the Top 25 Women Transforming India by NITI Aayog and MyGov.
