She Ate With Farmers, Gave Up Her Chair For A Monkey: Who Is IAS Officer Asmita Lal?

Last Updated:April 17, 2026, 14:02 IST

A video of Baghpat DM Asmita Lal eating with farmers and offering her chair to a monkey named ‘Matru’ has gone viral online. Her simplicity has won widespread praise

IAS officer Asmita Lal, currently serving as the District Magistrate (DM) of Baghpat in Uttar Pradesh, has been drawing widespread attention on social media for her grounded approach and respectful interaction with farmers.

Her actions during a recent Farmers’ Day event have resonated strongly with the public, earning her praise for her simplicity and humility.

Viral Video Of Meal With Farmers

The attention began after a video from a Farmers’ Day programme at Vikas Bhawan in Baghpat went viral online. Following the official event, Asmita Lal joined farmers for a meal, choosing to sit with them rather than maintain formal distance.

Those present at the venue recorded the moment, and the clip quickly spread across social media platforms. Many users appreciated the gesture, noting that such behaviour is uncommon among senior officials. Some even remarked that she appeared to share a deep connection with farmers, with comments suggesting she seemed ‘like a farmer’s daughter’.

Unexpected Visit By Matru The Langur

During the same Farmers’ Day meeting, an unusual yet light-hearted moment added to the buzz. A langur named ‘Matru’ entered the meeting hall while proceedings were underway. Moving across tables, the animal approached the District Magistrate directly.

In a calm and composed manner, Asmita Lal stood up, smiled, and invited the langur to sit. She was heard saying, “Sit here," after which the animal settled on her chair. The incident, captured on video, soon went viral, adding a humorous dimension to the day’s events.

The langur, Matru, is not an unfamiliar sight in the area. He is known to frequent the Collectorate premises and is well recognised by staff and officials. According to accounts, he has even appeared during farmers’ protests in the past.

On one such occasion, Matru reportedly grabbed the DM’s scarf and sat among the farmers, further cementing his reputation as an unusual but familiar figure in the administrative circle.

Profile Of IAS Asmita Lal

Asmita Lal belongs to the 2015 batch of the Indian Administrative Service. Born on December 17, 1989, in Delhi, she pursued her studies before preparing for the civil services examination, which she successfully cleared in 2015.

She officially began her administrative career on September 7, 2015. At present, she serves as the District Magistrate and Collector of Baghpat, a position she assumed on January 18, 2025.

Asmita Lal has frequently been in the news for her empathetic leadership style and people-centric approach. Her willingness to engage directly with citizens, particularly farmers, reflects a governance style rooted in accessibility and understanding.

Her recent actions, sharing a meal with farmers and responding calmly to an unexpected situation involving an animal, have reinforced her image as an officer who connects with people beyond official boundaries.

Public Response And Appreciation

The viral videos have triggered a wave of positive reactions online, with many praising her humility and natural demeanour. For many observers, her conduct serves as a reminder that public service is not only about administration but also about human connection.

Asmita Lal’s approach continues to stand out, illustrating how simple gestures can leave a lasting impression and strengthen trust between officials and the public.

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