Vinai Kumar Saxena

Saxena was born on 23 March 1958 in Uttar Pradesh.{{cite web|url=https://lg.delhi.gov.in/lg-profile|title=Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena — The Lieutenant Governor|website=lg.delhi.gov.in|publisher=The lieutenant Governor of Delhi|access-date=3 August 2023|location=New Delhi|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803083641/https://lg.delhi.gov.in/lg-profile|archive-date=3 August 2023}} In 1975, he founded a student union within his institution, Mardhan Singh Inter College in Talbehat, Lalitpur, and was later elected its general secretary.{{cite web|url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/politics/inai-kumar-saxena-the-new-l-g-of-delhi-had-opposed-medha-patkar-over-narmada-project-13593562.htm/amp|title=Vinai Kumar Saxena, the new L-G of Delhi, had opposed Medha Patkar over Narmada project|first=Sudarsanan|last=Mani|date=24 May 2022|access-date=25 February 2023|website=cnbctv18.com|publisher=CNBC Television|archive-date=3 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803164523/https://www.cnbctv18.com/politics/inai-kumar-saxena-the-new-l-g-of-delhi-had-opposed-medha-patkar-over-narmada-project-13593562.htm/amp}} In 1981, he graduated from Kanpur University. He holds a pilot license.

Saxena began his professional career as an assistant officer in J.K. Group of companies in Rajasthan. He was eventually appointed the general manager of the group.{{cite web|url=https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/education/gk-update/vinay-kumar-saxena-biography-in-hindi/articleshow/91764771.cms|title=जानिए कितने पढ़े-लिखे हैं दिल्ली के नए एलजी विनय सक्सेना...|trans-title=Know how educated and experienced Delhi's new LG Vinay Saxena is...|language=hi|date=24 May 2022|access-date=26 June 2023|first=Neha|last=Upadhaya|website=navbharattimes.indiatimes.com|publisher=The Navbharat Times|location=New Delhi|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220626033202/https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/education/gk-update/vinay-kumar-saxena-biography-in-hindi/articleshow/91764771.cms|archive-date=26 June 2022}} Saxena later went on to become the CEO and Director of the Dholera Port Project in Dholera.{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/gandhinagar/hailed-as-indias-singapore-dholera-dressed-up-and-waiting-8609294/|website=The Indian Express|title=Hailed as 'India's Singapore': Dholera, dressed up and waiting|date=15 May 2023|access-date=26 June 2023|first=Avinash|last=Nair|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230608044922/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/gandhinagar/hailed-as-indias-singapore-dholera-dressed-up-and-waiting-8609294/|archive-date=8 June 2023}} He also led the construction of concrete gravity dam of the Sardar Sarovar Project (SSP) with the backing of the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited.

In 1991, he started the National Council for Civil Liberties of India (NCCL), an NGO headquartered in Ahmedabad.{{cite web|title=Delhi gets new LG: Who is Vinai Kumar Saxena?|url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/delhi-gets-new-lg-who-is-vinai-kumar-saxena20220523214415/|website=aninews.com|publisher=Asian News International|location=New Delhi|access-date=28 November 2022|archive-date=17 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220817153458/https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/delhi-gets-new-lg-who-is-vinai-kumar-saxena20220523214415/}} NCCL opposed Medha Patkar and the Narmada Bachao Andolan, an environmental initiative aimed at the ecological preservation and prevention of the displacement of thousands of people owing to the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Project in Gujarat, and other upcoming hydro projects on Narmada Valley.{{Cite news |date=16 March 2023 |title=AAP's 'proof' in Medha Patkar assault case: 'Should he remain Delhi L-G?' |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/aaps-proof-in-medha-patkar-assault-case-should-he-remain-delhi-lg-101678969661611-amp.html |website=hindustantimes.com |publisher=The Hindustan Times |access-date=26 April 2023 |archive-date=5 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405021137/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/aaps-proof-in-medha-patkar-assault-case-should-he-remain-delhi-lg-101678969661611-amp.html }}{{cite web|url=https://delhi.gov.in/lt-governor-office|title=Govt of Delhi: Lt. Governor office — Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena (The Lieutenant Governor)|website=delhi.gov.in|publisher=Government of Delhi|access-date=3 August 2023|location=New Delhi|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803115942/https://delhi.gov.in/lt-governor-office|archive-date=3 August 2023}}{{Cite web |date=2022-07-10 |title=FIR against social activist Medha Patkar in Madhya Pradesh |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bhopal-news/fir-against-social-activist-medha-patkar-in-madhya-pradesh-101657472253674.html |access-date=2022-11-17 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=17 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221117040447/https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bhopal-news/fir-against-social-activist-medha-patkar-in-madhya-pradesh-101657472253674.html }}{{Cite web |date=2017-09-17 |title=A short history of the Sardar Sarovar Dam on river Narmada |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/research/a-short-history-of-the-sardar-sarovar-dam-on-river-narmada-4847807/ |access-date=2022-11-20 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=19 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221019030049/https://indianexpress.com/article/research/a-short-history-of-the-sardar-sarovar-dam-on-river-narmada-4847807/ }}{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/cross-defamation-cases-court-issues-non-bailable-warrant-against-medha-patkar-4679624/lite/|title=Cross defamation cases: Court issues non-bailable warrant against Medha Patkar|date=29 May 2017|access-date=26 January 2023|agency=PTI|website=indianexpress.com|publisher=The Indian Express|archive-date=29 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170529152639/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/cross-defamation-cases-court-issues-non-bailable-warrant-against-medha-patkar-4679624/lite/}} A prolonged criminal defamation case filed by Saxena in the year 2001 against Patkar resulted in her conviction by the Delhi Court on 24 May 2024.{{cite web|url=https://m.economictimes.com/news/india/court-convicts-activist-medha-patkar-in-defamation-case-filed-by-delhi-lg-v-k-saxena/articleshow/110400968.cms|title=Court convicts activist Medha Patkar in defamation case filed by Delhi LG V K Saxena|agency=Press Trust of India|date=24 May 2024|work=The Economic Times|access-date=1 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240524131405/https://m.economictimes.com/news/india/court-convicts-activist-medha-patkar-in-defamation-case-filed-by-delhi-lg-v-k-saxena/articleshow/110400968.cms|location=New Delhi|archive-date=24 May 2024}} The court held Patkar guilty of deliberately and maliciously defaming Saxena.{{cite web|url=https://app.ecourts.gov.in/ecourt_mobile_encrypted_DC/display_pdf.php?filename=ZIIe%2Fe0AN94spfLXRdONYGpsCj2fFlYJbcTGl5J5E0G2AoZh6LLbJh4hlcICdQaz&caseno=jjnxpM%2FKeFpCOBNpVep%2BtojlXN%2Fm5%2B7Igus30dFXBiI%3D&cCode=9ZlIEp0G5VNxKgqa5ZA1kA%3D%3D&appFlag=&state_cd=DytSfGyRsIC664sNz2SgoA%3D%3D&dist_cd=3PM%2Be6%2FxchEBB9x1jMGwIw%3D%3D&court_code=9ZlIEp0G5VNxKgqa5ZA1kA%3D%3D&bilingual_flag=0|title=IN THE COURT OF SH. RAGHAV SHARMA, METROPOLITAN MAGISTRATE-06, SOUTH EAST DISTRICT, SAKET COURTS, NEW DELHI — V. K. SAXENA VS MEDHA PATKAR (CC NO: 613940/2016)|work=ecourts.gov.in|access-date=1 August 2024|archive-date=1 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240801143027/https://app.ecourts.gov.in/ecourt_mobile_encrypted_DC/display_pdf.php?filename=ZIIe%2Fe0AN94spfLXRdONYGpsCj2fFlYJbcTGl5J5E0G2AoZh6LLbJh4hlcICdQaz&caseno=jjnxpM%2FKeFpCOBNpVep%2BtojlXN%2Fm5%2B7Igus30dFXBiI%3D&cCode=9ZlIEp0G5VNxKgqa5ZA1kA%3D%3D&appFlag=&state_cd=DytSfGyRsIC664sNz2SgoA%3D%3D&dist_cd=3PM%2Be6%2FxchEBB9x1jMGwIw%3D%3D&court_code=9ZlIEp0G5VNxKgqa5ZA1kA%3D%3D&bilingual_flag=0}} Subsequently, on 1 July 2024, the court sentenced Patkar to a five-month imprisonment and ordered her to pay ₹10 lakh as compensation to Saxena.{{cite web|url=https://app.ecourts.gov.in/ecourt_mobile_encrypted_DC/display_pdf.php?filename=ZIIe%2Fe0AN94spfLXRdONYGpsCj2fFlYJbcTGl5J5E0FeNOCoYjT2X6TqLofI1Fis&caseno=jjnxpM%2FKeFpCOBNpVep%2BtojlXN%2Fm5%2B7Igus30dFXBiI%3D&cCode=9ZlIEp0G5VNxKgqa5ZA1kA%3D%3D&appFlag=&state_cd=DytSfGyRsIC664sNz2SgoA%3D%3D&dist_cd=3PM%2Be6%2FxchEBB9x1jMGwIw%3D%3D&court_code=9ZlIEp0G5VNxKgqa5ZA1kA%3D%3D&bilingual_flag=0|title=CT CASES 613940/2016 — V. K. SAXENA VS. MEDHA PATKAR (1 July 2024) ORDER ON SENTENCE|work=ecourts.gov.in|access-date=1 August 2024|archive-date=1 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240801150751/https://app.ecourts.gov.in/ecourt_mobile_encrypted_DC/display_pdf.php?filename=ZIIe%2Fe0AN94spfLXRdONYGpsCj2fFlYJbcTGl5J5E0FeNOCoYjT2X6TqLofI1Fis&caseno=jjnxpM%2FKeFpCOBNpVep%2BtojlXN%2Fm5%2B7Igus30dFXBiI%3D&cCode=9ZlIEp0G5VNxKgqa5ZA1kA%3D%3D&appFlag=&state_cd=DytSfGyRsIC664sNz2SgoA%3D%3D&dist_cd=3PM%2Be6%2FxchEBB9x1jMGwIw%3D%3D&court_code=9ZlIEp0G5VNxKgqa5ZA1kA%3D%3D&bilingual_flag=0}}{{cite web|url=https://english.gujaratsamachar.com/news/national/maximum-punishment-sought-for-medha-patkar-in-case-tied-to-ahmedabad-ngo|title=Maximum punishment sought for Medha Patkar in case tied to Ahmedabad NGO|website=english.gujaratsamachar.com|publisher=Gujarat Samachar|date=30 May 2024|access-date=1 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240801145328/https://english.gujaratsamachar.com/news/national/maximum-punishment-sought-for-medha-patkar-in-case-tied-to-ahmedabad-ngo|archive-date=1 August 2024}}

As president of NCCL, he petitioned the Gujarat High Court in 2011 against then-Governor of Gujarat Kamla Beniwal's appointment of retired judge Rameshchandra Amrut Mehta as Lokayukta, alleging a "breach of constitutional propriety" for bypassing the advice of the state's council of ministers, led by then-Chief Minister Narendra Modi.{{cite web|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/delhis-new-lieutenant-general-vinai-kumar-saxena-fought-many-battles-for-his-second-home-state-gujarat/articleshow/91774258.cms|title=Delhi's new Lieutenant General Vinai Kumar Saxena fought many battles for his 'second home state' Gujarat|date=25 May 2022|access-date=26 November 2022|first=Anubhuti|last=Vishnoi|website=economictimes.com|agency=The Economic Times|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524194935/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/delhis-new-lieutenant-general-vinai-kumar-saxena-fought-many-battles-for-his-second-home-state-gujarat/articleshow/91774258.cms|archive-date=24 May 2022}}

{{cite news | title = Anna man is Gujarat Lokayukta| url = https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/Anna-man-is-Gujarat-Lokayukta/articleshow/9753412.cms | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110909124128/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-08-27/ahmedabad/29935689_1_gujarat-hc-gujarat-high-court-chief-justice | url-status = live | archive-date = 9 September 2011 | work = The Times of India| date = 27 August 2011}}{{cite news |last=Shah |first=Jumana |date=15 June 2011 |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_is-justice-ra-mehta-likely-to-be-appointed-gujarat-lok-ayukta_1555291 |title=Is Justice RA Mehta likely to be appointed Gujarat lok ayukta? |work=DNA India |access-date=12 April 2013 |archive-date=5 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005044427/http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_is-justice-ra-mehta-likely-to-be-appointed-gujarat-lok-ayukta_1555291 }}{{cite web |url=http://in.news.yahoo.com/r-mehta-gujarat-lokayukta-111044463.html |title=R.A. Mehta is Gujarat Lokayukta — Yahoo! News India |publisher=In.news.yahoo.com |date=26 August 2011 |access-date=12 April 2013 |archive-date=13 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120513125749/http://in.news.yahoo.com/r-mehta-gujarat-lokayukta-111044463.html }} However, in 2012, the appointment of the Lokayukta in Gujarat was upheld by multiple courts, including the Gujarat High Court and the Supreme Court of India.{{cite web|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/setback-for-narendra-modi-gujarat-hc-upholds-lokayuktas-appointment/221825-37-64.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130105023557/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/setback-for-narendra-modi-gujarat-hc-upholds-lokayuktas-appointment/221825-37-64.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=5 January 2013 |title=Setback for Narendra Modi, Gujarat HC upholds Lokayukta's appointment|publisher=IBNLive.IN.com |date=18 January 2012 |access-date=7 July 2014}}{{cite web|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/gujarat-government-challenges-lokayukta-appointment-in-sc/222212-37-161.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140715162826/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/gujarat-government-challenges-lokayukta-appointment-in-sc/222212-37-161.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=15 July 2014 |title=Gujarat government challenges Lokayukta appointment in SC|publisher=IBNLive.IN.com |date=19 January 2012 |access-date=7 July 2014}}{{cite web |url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/supreme-court-upholds-gujarat-lokayukta-s-appointment-312160 |title=Supreme Court upholds Gujarat Lokayukta's appointment |publisher=NDTV |date=2 January 2013 |access-date=7 July 2014 |archive-date=14 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714212359/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/supreme-court-upholds-gujarat-lokayukta-s-appointment-312160 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.tehelka.com/apex-court-upholds-justice-mehtas-appointment-as-gujarat-lokayukta/|title=Apex court upholds Justice Mehta's appointment as Gujarat Lokayukta|publisher=TEHELKA|access-date=7 July 2014|archive-date=14 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714205209/http://www.tehelka.com/apex-court-upholds-justice-mehtas-appointment-as-gujarat-lokayukta/|url-status=dead}} The courts ruled that while "the governor is bound to act under the advice of the Council of Ministers," the appointment of Mehta was valid as it was made in consultation with the Chief Justice of the Gujarat High Court.{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/setback-to-modi-as-supreme-court-upholds-lokayukta-appointment/article4264450.ece |title=Setback to Modi as Supreme Court upholds Lokayukta appointment |newspaper=The Hindu |publisher=TheHindu |date=3 January 2013 |access-date=7 July 2014 |last1=Venkatesan |first1=J. |archive-date=26 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140326075645/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/setback-to-modi-as-supreme-court-upholds-lokayukta-appointment/article4264450.ece }}

In May 2008, Saxena drew public attention by raising concerns about the placement of Mahatma Gandhi's statue at Madame Tussauds in London.{{Cite web |last=Nair |first=Avinash |date=27 May 2022 |title=Newsmaker — Vinai Kumar Saxena, a dyed in the wool L-G |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/newsmaker-delhi-vinai-kumar-saxena-a-dyed-in-the-wool-l-g-7939972/lite/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220616172156/https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/newsmaker-delhi-vinai-kumar-saxena-a-dyed-in-the-wool-l-g-7939972/ |archive-date=16 June 2022 |access-date=28 January 2023 |website=indianexpress.com |publisher=The Indian Express |language=en}} He discovered that the statue was positioned on the second floor near an ice cream parlour and close to a dustbin, rather than in the museum's section featuring prominent world leaders. On 17 May 2008, he addressed the issue by writing to then-British Prime Minister Gordon Brown on 17 May 2008. The following day, the museum authorities issued an apology and relocated the statue to the World Leaders' Exhibition hall.

Saxena was appointed as a "Member of University Court" of Jawaharlal Nehru University in 2019. In 2020, he was nominated as a member of the decision-making body of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research at the Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology. In November 2020, he was nominated as a member of the Padma Awards selection panel for the year 2021.{{cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/delhi-gets-new-lieutenant-governor-who-is-vinai-kumar-saxena-101653319308681.html|title=Delhi gets new lieutenant governor: Who is Vinai Kumar Saxena?|publisher=The Hindustan Times|website=hindustantimes.com|location=New Delhi|date=23 May 2022|access-date=26 January 2023|archive-date=3 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803120349/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/delhi-gets-new-lieutenant-governor-who-is-vinai-kumar-saxena-101653319308681.html}}In March 2021, he was appointed by the Union government as a member of the national committee to commemorate 75 years of India's independence.{{Cite news |agency=PTI |date=26 May 2022 |title=Vinai Kumar Saxena takes oath as Lt Governor of Delhi |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/vinai-kumar-saxena-takes-oath-as-lt-governor-of-delhi/articleshow/91806256.cms |work=The Economic Times |access-date=26 May 2022 |archive-date=26 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220526070402/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/vinai-kumar-saxena-takes-oath-as-lt-governor-of-delhi/articleshow/91806256.cms }}

Saxena became associated with Kumarappa National Handmade Paper Institute (KNHPI); the institution launched the production of handmade paper pads in Jaipur, Rajasthan, from white currency waste that stemmed from the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/handmade-paper-from-white-currency-waste-launched/articleshow/92760512.cms|title=Handmade Paper From White Currency Waste Launched In Jaipur|date=9 July 2022|access-date=16 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221001154545/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/handmade-paper-from-white-currency-waste-launched/articleshow/92760512.cms|agency=TNN|archive-date=1 October 2022|work=The Times of India}}{{cite web|url=https://papermart.in/knhpi-develops-handmade-paper-of-white-currency-waste/|title=KNHPI develops Handmade Paper from White Currency Waste|date=18 August 2022|access-date=16 July 2024|website=papermart.in|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220908081503/https://papermart.in/knhpi-develops-handmade-paper-of-white-currency-waste/|archive-date=8 September 2022}}

In 2015, Saxena was appointed the chairman of Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC),{{Cite web|date=2021-05-21|title=Tribunal bars unauthorised use of Khadi brand name|url=https://www.indiaretailing.com/2021/05/21/fashion/tribunal-bars-unauthorised-use-of-khadi-brand-name/|access-date=2021-05-23|website=Indiaretailing.com|language=en-US|archive-date=23 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210523044550/https://www.indiaretailing.com/2021/05/21/fashion/tribunal-bars-unauthorised-use-of-khadi-brand-name/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite news|agency=PTI|date=2021-05-20|title='Khadi', 'Khadi India' not generic names, rules tribunal|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/khadi-khadi-india-not-generic-names-rules-tribunal/article34603078.ece|access-date=2021-05-23|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=23 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210523044549/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/khadi-khadi-india-not-generic-names-rules-tribunal/article34603078.ece}}{{Cite web|last=MPost|date=2021-05-20|title=KVIC: Court bars individuals/cos from using 'Khadi' brand name without authorisation|url=http://www.millenniumpost.in/business/kvic-court-bars-individualscos-from-using-khadi-brand-name-without-authorisation-440669|access-date=2021-05-23|website=millenniumpost.in|language=en|archive-date=23 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210523044558/http://www.millenniumpost.in/business/kvic-court-bars-individualscos-from-using-khadi-brand-name-without-authorisation-440669}} which oversaw a number of employment generation programs.{{Cite web|date=24 May 2022|title=New Delhi LG V.K. Saxena: The man who made Khadi Commission grew by massive 248%|url=https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=961408|access-date=26 August 2022|website=daijiworld.com|publisher=Daiji World News|agency=IANS|language=en-US|archive-date=25 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220625190545/https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=961408|location=New Delhi}} He led the development of Plastic-mixed Handmade Paper and patented Khadi Prakritik Paint, India's first wall paint made of cow dung. KVIC's turnover, sales, and brand recognition improved during his tenure.{{cite web|url=https://www.livemint.com/industry/kvic-turnover-crosses-rs-1-lakh-crore-in-2021-22-beats-all-indian-fmcg-cos-11651310719703.html|title=KVIC turnover crosses ₹1 lakh crore in 2021–22, beats all Indian FMCG cos|date=30 April 2022|access-date=3 August 2023|location=New Delhi|website=livemint.com|publisher=The Live Mint|archive-date=9 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221109101149/https://www.livemint.com/industry/kvic-turnover-crosses-rs-1-lakh-crore-in-2021-22-beats-all-indian-fmcg-cos-11651310719703.html}}

File:Manoj Sinha along with the Minister of State for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (IC), Shri Giriraj Singh launching the New Dress Code for Postman and Multi-Tasking Personnel of Department of Posts, in New Delhi.jpg

File:Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, the Minister of State for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (IC), Shri Giriraj Singh and the Chairman, KVIC, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena at the ‘Khadi Fashion Show’.JPG, April 23, 2018]]

In 2017–18, during his chairmanship, KVIC's sales growth witnessed a 13% rise, almost twice that of Hindustan Unilever's. During 2018–19, the company has reported an over 25% jump in sales to a little under ₹75,000 crore.{{cite web|url=https://www.kvic.gov.in/kvicres/newhm/hmnewspagination.html|title=Honey Mission News — Papad, cosmetics, honey push Khadi Commission sales up 25% to Rs.75, 000 crore|website=kvic.gov.in|publisher=Khadi and Village Industries Commission|agency=TNN|date=16 August 2019|access-date=26 December 2022|archive-date=3 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803164527/https://www.kvic.gov.in/kvicres/newhm/hmnewspagination.html}} When the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi inaugurated the 'Sweet Revolution' program in 2016, Saxena drafted an initiative titled 'Honey Mission'. As part of the KVIC's Honey Mission, the launch of the nation's first Mobile Honey Processing Van took place at Sirora, in Ghaziabad, on 7 January 2022.{{cite web|url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1788375|title=KVIC rolls out innovative "Mobile Honey Processing Van" to support farmers and beekeepers|website=pib.gov.in|publisher=Press Information Bureau|date=7 January 2022|access-date=26 December 2022|archive-date=15 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230515011632/http://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1788375}} 'Khadi prakritik paint', another notable innovation of Khadi India, was conceptualized by Saxena in March 2020 and the trial issue was launched in November of the same year. Cow dung paint, one of the notable innovations of the KVIC, incorporated by Saxena, which got the patent certificate from the Government of India on 23 September 2022.

During the chairmanship of KVIC from 2015 to 2022, Saxena initiated a nationwide campaign for plantation of Moringa oleifera (over 45,000 trees) in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Delhi.{{cite web|url=https://lg.delhi.gov.in/sites/default/files/publication/striving_for_a_sustainable_habitat_0.pdf|title=Striving for a sustainable habitat: The ongoing journey of Delhi Lt. Vinai Kumar Saxena|archive-date=15 July 2024|work=lg.delhi.gov.in|access-date=15 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240715110310/https://lg.delhi.gov.in/sites/default/files/publication/striving_for_a_sustainable_habitat_0.pdf}} His efforts on the plantation of Moringa saplings were predominantly aimed at supporting beekeeping activities as well as creating awareness about its medicinal values among the masses. He also administered the plantation of saplings of sandalwood and bamboo, ensuring financial sustainability of Indian farmers and local land owners. In July 2020, he earned an invitation from the UNESCO to attend an international workshop on 'Wise Coastal Practice for Sustainable Human Development' for his major works related to water security in coastal Bhal region of Gujarat. Saxena initiated Project BOLD (known fully as 'Bamboo Oasis on Lands in Drought') on 4 July 2021, aiming the creation of bamboo-based green patches in arid and semi-arid land zones in India. As a result of the project, over 31,000 bamboo saplings were planted over 42.47 lakh Square feet in areas of Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Leh and Ladakh, Goa, Gujarat, Varanasi and Jammu.

Saxena, in association with Delhi Development Authority, which maintains 733 parks, 7 biodiversity parks, the Yamuna floodplains and roadside greens, carried out plantation drives in different parts of the national capital territory as part of the sustainable habitat development programme in July 2024 to make the city greener.{{cite web|url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2024/state-editions/plantation-drives-carried-out-in-different-parts-of-city.html|title=Plantation drives carried out in different parts of city|archive-date=15 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240715052751/https://www.dailypioneer.com/2024/state-editions/plantation-drives-carried-out-in-different-parts-of-city.html|website=dailypioneer.com|publisher=The Daily Pioneer|location=New Delhi|date=14 July 2024|access-date=15 July 2024}} Newly elected Prime Minister of India – Narendra Modi joined the initiative with Saxena, in which 50,000 trees and 5,50,000 shrubs have been planted in different locations of Delhi, including District Park and Lake, Vikaspuri, G17, Paschim Vihar and Punjabi Bagh.{{cite web|url=https://thepatriot.in/delhi-ncr/delhi-dda-plants-50000-trees-across-the-capital-this-year-53383|title=Delhi: DDA plants 50,000 trees across the Capital this year|date=13 July 2024|access-date=15 July 2024|first1=Saurav|last1=Gupta|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240715060235/https://thepatriot.in/delhi-ncr/delhi-dda-plants-50000-trees-across-the-capital-this-year-53383|archive-date=15 July 2024|work=The Patriot}} The campaign was inaugurated by Modi and Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change – Bhupender Yadav, assisted by Saxena in Delhi, on World Environment Day 2024, with the name of "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" ({{lit|Project One Tree in the name of mother}}), aiming to mobilize every Indian to plant a tree as a measure against climate change.{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/india/project-one-tree-ek-ped-maa-ke-naam-and-other-green-campaigns-adopted-by-pm-modi-and-his-ministers-8957991.html|title=Project One Tree: 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' and Other Green Campaigns Adopted by PM Modi and His Ministers|archive-date=10 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240710204335/https://www.news18.com/india/project-one-tree-ek-ped-maa-ke-naam-and-other-green-campaigns-adopted-by-pm-modi-and-his-ministers-8957991.html|date=9 July 2024|access-date=15 July 2024|website=News18}}{{cite web|url=https://www.abplive.com/states/punjab/ek-ped-maa-ke-naam-campaign-started-in-haryana-minister-sanjay-singh-big-announcement-ann-2732957|title='एक पेड़ मां के नाम' अभियान की हरियाणा में शुरुआत, मंत्री संजय सिंह ने किया ये बड़ा ऐलान|trans-title='One tree in the name of mother' campaign started in Haryana, Minister Sanjay Singh made this big announcement|date=8 July 2025|access-date=15 July 2024|language=hi|archive-date=9 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709041413/https://www.abplive.com/states/punjab/ek-ped-maa-ke-naam-campaign-started-in-haryana-minister-sanjay-singh-big-announcement-ann-2732957|work=ABP News}}{{cite web|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/india/pm-modi-launches-ek-ped-maa-ke-naam-campaign-on-world-environment-day-article-110746242/amp|title=PM Modi Launches 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' Campaign On World Environment Day|date=6 June 2024|access-date=15 July 2024|work=Times Now News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240606002359/https://www.timesnownews.com/india/pm-modi-launches-ek-ped-maa-ke-naam-campaign-on-world-environment-day-article-110746242|archive-date=6 June 2024|first1=Rosali|last1=Ghosh}} He also incepted the 'Green Plan' for Delhi, with having motto of layered plantations, Miyawaki and aquatic forestation, setting a target of planting 67 lakh trees and shrubs in 2024–25 season.{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/layered-plantation-miyawaki-aquatic-forests-among-l-gs-green-plan-for-delhi-9462400/|title=Layered plantation, Miyawaki, aquatic forests among L-G's green plan for Delhi|work=The Indian Express|location=New Delhi|access-date=8 August 2024|date=19 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240722212915/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/layered-plantation-miyawaki-aquatic-forests-among-l-gs-green-plan-for-delhi-9462400/|archive-date=22 July 2024}}

As part of the sustainable development projects, Saxena made an impact in water resource planning and watershed management in both the states, Gujarat and Rajasthan, helping prevent drought in India. He cooperated with foreign scientists in commissioning an initiative named 'Trishna', through which, unutilized water was parched into areas of Gujarat and Rajasthan. In 2000, he administered pond deepening process in areas of Dholera, Ahmedabad district.

Saxena made an impact in commencing the Project 'Rainbow Hills' in Sabarkantha district of Gujarat for re-constructions and modernization of tribal houses. Under the initiative, repairing of walls, floor, roof, verandas were done including the construction of eco-friendly toilets as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission, including overall developments of basic amenities to the local Adivasis.

File:Vinai Saxena seated in his office room, photographed on January 18, 2023.jpg

On 23 May 2022, Saxena was appointed the Lieutenant Governor of National Capital Territory of Delhi by the President of India,{{Cite news |date=23 May 2022 |title=Khadi commission head Vinai Kumar Saxena is Delhi's new Lieutenant Governor |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/vinai-kumar-saxena-new-lieutenant-governor-delhi-7932386/ |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Indian Express |archive-date=24 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524234651/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/vinai-kumar-saxena-new-lieutenant-governor-delhi-7932386/ }}{{cite news |agency=PTI |date=26 May 2022 |title=Vinai Kumar Saxena takes oath as 22nd Lt Governor of Delhi |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/vinai-kumar-saxena-takes-oath-as-22nd-lt-governor-of-delhi/cid/1866969 |access-date=28 May 2022 |work=The Telegraph |archive-date=28 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220528081009/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/vinai-kumar-saxena-takes-oath-as-22nd-lt-governor-of-delhi/cid/1866969 }} becoming the maiden corporate individual ever selected for a gubernatorial post.{{cite web|title=Meet Delhi's new LG: First corporate man on such a gubernatorial post who holds a pilot's license|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/meet-delhi-s-new-lg-vinai-kumar-saxena-first-corporate-man-on-such-a-gubernatorial-post-who-holds-a-pilot-s-license-11653360110193.html|website=livemint.com|publisher=The Live Mint|location=New Delhi|access-date=24 May 2022|archive-date=24 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524040217/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/meet-delhi-s-new-lg-vinai-kumar-saxena-first-corporate-man-on-such-a-gubernatorial-post-who-holds-a-pilot-s-license-11653360110193.html}}{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/kvicindia/status/1528773221436096512|title=A proud moment for the whole KVIC. Incumbent Chairman of KVIC Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena has been appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of NCT of Delhi. He is the first corporate man ever selected for such gubernatorial post.|date=23 May 2022|access-date=3 August 2023|website=Twitter.com (@kvicindia) – Khadi India Official|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220523162235/https://twitter.com/kvicindia/status/1528773221436096512|archive-date=23 May 2022}}{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/meet-delhis-new-lg-vinai-kumar-saxena-a-kanpur-university-graduate-who-holds-a-pilots-licence/articleshow/91752167.cms|title=Meet Delhi's new LG Vinai Kumar Saxena: A Kanpur University graduate who holds a pilot's licence|date=23 May 2022|access-date=24 May 2022|website=timesofindia.indiatimes.com|publisher=The Times of India|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524041416/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/meet-delhis-new-lg-vinai-kumar-saxena-a-kanpur-university-graduate-who-holds-a-pilots-licence/articleshow/91752167.cms|archive-date=24 May 2022}} He succeeded Anil Baijal for the post.{{cite news |title=Vinai Kumar Saxena is the new Lieutenant-Governor of Delhi |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/vinai-kumar-saxena-is-the-new-lieutenant-governor-of-delhi/article65454828.ece |access-date=2 September 2022 |website=thehindu.com |publisher=The Hindu |location=New Delhi |date=23 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220902153003/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/vinai-kumar-saxena-is-the-new-lieutenant-governor-of-delhi/article65454828.ece |archive-date=2 September 2022 |language=en-IN}} In June, he launched e-sanjeevani services at the Hindu Rao Hospital of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, as part of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana.{{cite web|url=https://www.cdac.in/index.aspx?id=print_page&print=pk_itn_spot1285|title=Delhi L-G Vinai Kumar Saxena launches e-Sanjeevani Services in MCD hospital|date=7 June 2022|access-date=23 February 2024|website=cdac.in|publisher=Center for Development of Advanced Computing|agency=TIE|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240223053633/https://www.cdac.in/index.aspx?id=print_page&print=pk_itn_spot1285|archive-date=23 February 2024}} In October 2022, he launched one-time property tax amnesty scheme 'SAMRIDDHI 2022–23', to provide a major relief to lakhs of residential and commercial property owners in the city.{{cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/delhi-l-g-launches-one-time-property-tax-amnesty-scheme-samriddhi-2022-23/article66053097.ece|title=Delhi L-G launches one-time property tax amnesty scheme 'SAMRIDDHI 2022–23'|date=25 October 2022|access-date=15 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627075326/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/delhi-l-g-launches-one-time-property-tax-amnesty-scheme-samriddhi-2022-23/article66053097.ece|agency=Press Trust of India|archive-date=27 June 2024|work=The Hindu}}{{cite web|url=https://theprint.in/india/delhi-lg-launches-one-time-property-tax-amnesty-scheme-samriddhi-2022-23/1181815/|title=Delhi LG launches one-time property tax amnesty scheme 'SAMRIDDHI 2022–23'|work=The Print|agency=Press Trust of India|date=25 October 2022|access-date=15 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240715061800/https://theprint.in/india/delhi-lg-launches-one-time-property-tax-amnesty-scheme-samriddhi-2022-23/1181815/|archive-date=15 July 2024}} Saxena attended as chief guest and inaugurated the 'Drug Free India Pakhwada campaign' at Talkatora Stadium in New Delhi in June 2023, which was part of "Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan" (NMBA), in which 15,000 kilograms of illegal drugs were destroyed as per procedure at the incinerator located at SSI Industrial Area, in Jahangirpuri.{{cite news |title=Vinai Kumar Saxena is the new Lieutenant-Governor of Delhi |url=https://delhipolice.gov.in/LatestUpdates# |access-date=5 August 2023 |website=delhipolice.gov.in |publisher=Delhi Police |location=New Delhi |date=26 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805103619/https://delhipolice.gov.in/LatestUpdates |archive-date=5 August 2023 |language=en-IN}} He then took part in an official event hosted by PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), describing aspects and future developments according to the 'New Master Plan Delhi 2041'.{{cite news |title=Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor of Delhi in an event of PHDCCI dedicated to "New Master Plan Delhi 2041" assures clearing |url=https://www.phdcci.in/2023/07/13/shri-vinai-kumar-saxena-honble-lieutenant-governor-of-delhi-in-an-event-of-phdcci-dedicated-to-new-master-plan-delhi-2041-assures-clearing-of-the-three-garbage-landfills-within/ |access-date=12 October 2023 |website=phdcci.in |publisher=PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry |location=New Delhi |date=28 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231012132126/https://www.phdcci.in/2023/07/13/shri-vinai-kumar-saxena-honble-lieutenant-governor-of-delhi-in-an-event-of-phdcci-dedicated-to-new-master-plan-delhi-2041-assures-clearing-of-the-three-garbage-landfills-within/ |archive-date=12 October 2023 |language=en-IN}} In 2023, National Green Tribunal appointed Saxena as chairperson of a high-level committee on the Yamuna Rejuvenation Project, which is a part of Namami Gange Programme, but the appointment was stayed by an order of the Supreme Court of India in July of the same year.{{cite news |title=SC stays NGT order to appoint Delhi LG VK Saxena as Chairperson of Yamuna panel |first1=Nitin |last1=Kumar |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/delhi/delhi-sc-stays-ngt-order-to-appoint-lg-vinai-kumar-saxena-chairperson-yamuna-rejuvenation-project-panel-national-green-tribunal-aap-govt-2023-07-11-880460 |date=11 July 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |work=IndiaTVNews.com |archive-date=14 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230714051224/https://www.indiatvnews.com/delhi/delhi-sc-stays-ngt-order-to-appoint-lg-vinai-kumar-saxena-chairperson-yamuna-rejuvenation-project-panel-national-green-tribunal-aap-govt-2023-07-11-880460 }}{{cite news |title=Supreme Court stays NGT order appointing Delhi L-G VK Saxena as head of Yamuna panel |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/supreme-court-stays-ngt-order-appointing-delhi-lg-vk-saxena-as-head-of-yamuna-panel-8825759/lite/ |date=11 July 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |work=IndianExpress.com |archive-date=11 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711072225/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/supreme-court-stays-ngt-order-appointing-delhi-lg-vk-saxena-as-head-of-yamuna-panel-8825759/ }}{{cite news |title=SC stays NGT order naming Delhi L-G as Yamuna panel head |url=https://legal.economictimes.indiatimes.com/amp/news/litigation/sc-stays-ngt-order-naming-delhi-l-g-as-yamuna-panel-head/101676231 |date=11 July 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |work=economictimes.indiatimes.com |agency=IANS |archive-date=21 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240421165217/https://legal.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/litigation/sc-stays-ngt-order-naming-delhi-l-g-as-yamuna-panel-head/101676231 }}

File:Vinai Saxena and other officials discussing about Yamuna revival works in Delhi, photographed on February 12, 2023.jpg

In September, Saxena inaugurated an online portal in Delhi, devoted to Vigilance Complaint Information Management System (VCIMS), the first of its kind in India, that aiming the handling of corruption complaints and ensuring transparency and confidentiality.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/delhi-lg-launches-portal-for-speedy-action-on-graft-complaints/articleshow/103844195.cms|title=Delhi LG launches portal for speedy action on graft complaints|date=21 September 2023|access-date=24 September 2023|website=timesofindia.indiatimes.com|publisher=The Times of India|location=New Delhi|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230924085741/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/delhi-lg-launches-portal-for-speedy-action-on-graft-complaints/articleshow/103844195.cms|archive-date=24 September 2023}} On 23 September, after the conclusion of G20 New Delhi summit, he approved allotment and transfer of lands in Bhalswa and Uttam Nagar, for completion of infrastructural development projects.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/delhi-lg-vk-saxena-approves-land-transfer-among-depts-for-infra-projects/articleshow/103880260.cms|agency=TNN|title=Delhi LG VK Saxena Approves Land Transfer Among Depts For Infra Projects|date=23 September 2023|access-date=24 September 2023|website=timesofindia.indiatimes.com|publisher=The Times of India|location=New Delhi|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230924091249/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/delhi-lg-vk-saxena-approves-land-transfer-among-depts-for-infra-projects/articleshow/103880260.cms|archive-date=24 September 2023}} On 11 November, Saxena inaugurated Rajghat Power Plant Chimney, which became one of the tallest illuminated landmarks in the city.{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/delhis-skyline-transformed-rajghat-power-plant-chimney-lights-up-as-tallest-illuminated-landmark-9022345/|title=Delhi's skyline transformed: Rajghat power plant chimney lights up as tallest illuminated landmark|date=11 November 2023|access-date=12 November 2023|first1=Upasika|last1=Singhal|website=indianexpress.com|publisher=The Indian Express|location=New Delhi|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231111223518/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/delhis-skyline-transformed-rajghat-power-plant-chimney-lights-up-as-tallest-illuminated-landmark-9022345/|archive-date=11 November 2023}} On 9 December, he inaugurated the new annexe building of the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Delhi.{{cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/new-forensic-science-laboratory-building-inaugurated-in-delhi/article67622764.ece|title=New Forensic Science Laboratory building inaugurated in Delhi|location=New Delhi|website=thehindu.com|publisher=The Hindu Bureau|date=10 December 2023|access-date=10 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231210050641/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/new-forensic-science-laboratory-building-inaugurated-in-delhi/article67622764.ece|archive-date=10 December 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://www.latestly.com/agency-news/latest-news-lg-inaugurates-new-building-at-delhi-fsl-aimed-at-boosting-testing-capacity-5619597.html|agency=PTI|title=LG Inaugurates New Building at Delhi FSL Aimed at Boosting Testing Capacity|location=New Delhi|website=latestly.com|publisher=LATEST-LY|date=9 December 2023|access-date=10 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231210050908/https://www.latestly.com/agency-news/latest-news-lg-inaugurates-new-building-at-delhi-fsl-aimed-at-boosting-testing-capacity-5619597.html|archive-date=10 December 2023}} In February 2024, joining with Police Commissioner of Delhi Sanjay Arora, Saxena inaugurated 'All Women Police Post' at Shraddhanand Marg Police Station, setting up a groundbreaking move.{{cite web|url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/delhi-lg-vinai-saxena-inaugurates-all-women-police-post-calls-it-historic-moment20240218230639/|agency=PTI|title=Delhi LG Vinai Saxena inaugurates All Women Police Post, calls it "historic moment"|location=New Delhi|website=aninews.in|publisher=Asian News International|date=18 February 2024|access-date=20 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240223055338/https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/delhi-lg-vinai-saxena-inaugurates-all-women-police-post-calls-it-historic-moment20240218230639|archive-date=23 February 2024}}

On 20 February 2025, Saxena administered the oath of office and secrecy to the newly elected CM of Delhi Rekha Gupta and the ministers at the official oath ceremony hosted in Ramlila Maidan.{{cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/rekha-gupta-sworn-in-as-delhi-cm-six-ministers-take-oath-of-office-101740037864206.html|title=Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi CM; six ministers take oath of office|date=20 February 2025|access-date=27 February 2025|first1=Alok|last1=KN Mishra|work=The Hindustan Times|archive-date=20 February 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250220082906/https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/rekha-gupta-sworn-in-as-delhi-cm-six-ministers-take-oath-of-office-101740037864206.html}}{{cite web|url=https://ddnews.gov.in/en/rekha-gupta-sworn-in-as-delhi-chief-minister-becomes-4th-woman-cm-of-national-capital/|title=Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi's fourth woman chief minister in grand ceremony at Ramlila Maidan|date=20 February 2025|access-date=27 February 2025|work=DD News|archive-date=20 February 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250220073206/https://ddnews.gov.in/en/rekha-gupta-sworn-in-as-delhi-chief-minister-becomes-4th-woman-cm-of-national-capital/}}

Saxena was born and grew up in Banda, Uttar Pradesh. He is married to Sangita Saxena, who is an educationist and social worker based in New Delhi.{{cite web|url=https://www.thestatesman.com/india/police-families-stood-like-a-rock-behind-personnel-sangita-saxena-1503292940.html|title=Police families stood like a rock behind personnel: Sangita Saxena|website=The Statesman|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240422163950/https://www.thestatesman.com/india/police-families-stood-like-a-rock-behind-personnel-sangita-saxena-1503292940.html|archive-date=22 April 2024|date=22 April 2024|access-date=15 July 2024}} Saxena has a daughter named Shivangi Saxena, who is an interior designer.{{cite web|url=https://www.newslaundry.com/2022/09/01/delhi-lgs-daughter-designed-khadi-lounge-when-he-was-khadi-commission-chief|title=Delhi LG's daughter designed khadi lounge while he was khadi commission chief|work=newslaundry.com|access-date=29 January 2024|date=1 September 2022|first1=Prateek|last1=Goyal|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240810035350/https://www.newslaundry.com/2022/09/01/delhi-lgs-daughter-designed-khadi-lounge-when-he-was-khadi-commission-chief|archive-date=10 August 2024}}

While serving as the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, he was falsely accused by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders of involvement in a khadi scam and money laundering amounting to ₹1,400 crore during his tenure as chairman of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission.{{Cite news |date=29 Aug 2022 |title=AAP MLAs Allege Delhi Lt Governor Involved In Rs 1400 Crore "Khadi Scam" |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/in-2016-saxena-pressurised-his-employees-to-exchange-demonetised-notes-worth-rs-1400-cr-aap-3296051 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220829095048/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/in-2016-saxena-pressurised-his-employees-to-exchange-demonetised-notes-worth-rs-1400-cr-aap-3296051 |archive-date=29 August 2022 |access-date=29 Aug 2022 |work=NDTV India |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Anand |first1=Jatin |date=29 August 2022 |title=Furore in Delhi Assembly over graft allegations against L-G |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/furore-in-delhi-assembly-over-graft-allegations-against-l-g/article65827028.ece |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220830030645/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/furore-in-delhi-assembly-over-graft-allegations-against-l-g/article65827028.ece |archive-date=30 August 2022 |access-date=30 August 2022 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN}} He denied the accusations, and issued legal notices to the AAP leaders.{{Cite web |date=2022-09-05 |title=Delhi Lieutenant Governor Sends Legal Notice To AAP Leaders For Defamation |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/delhi-lieutenant-governor-vk-saxena-sends-legal-notice-to-aap-leaders-for-defamation-3317613 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220923090801/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/delhi-lieutenant-governor-vk-saxena-sends-legal-notice-to-aap-leaders-for-defamation-3317613 |archive-date=23 September 2022 |access-date=2022-09-23 |website=NDTV.com}} The Delhi High Court directed the AAP to remove defamatory posts from social media, ruling that the allegations were 'completely unsubstantiated,' noting that the sum was exaggerated into ₹1,400 crore without any proof or merit.{{Cite web |date=2022-09-27 |title=Delhi HC asks AAP leaders to take down posts defaming Lieutenant Governor |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/delhi-hc-passes-interim-order-in-favour-of-lg-after-he-alleged-defamation-101664256926989.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220928165422/https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/delhi-hc-passes-interim-order-in-favour-of-lg-after-he-alleged-defamation-101664256926989.html |archive-date=28 September 2022 |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Jha |first=Prashant |title=No material to substantiate AAP's allegations that Delhi LG Vinai Kumar Saxena was involved in ₹1,400 crore corruption: Delhi High Court |url=https://www.barandbench.com/news/litigation/no-material-substantiate-delhi-lg-vinai-kumar-saxena-involved-1400-corruption-delhi-high-court |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803083110/https://www.barandbench.com/news/litigation/no-material-substantiate-delhi-lg-vinai-kumar-saxena-involved-1400-corruption-delhi-high-court |archive-date=3 August 2023 |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=Bar and Bench — Indian Legal news |language=en}}

The Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, Manish Sisodia, accused Saxena of approving the Delhi Excise Policy (2021–22) introduced by the Delhi Government without raising concerns about the opening of outlets in unauthorized areas, alleging that Saxena changed his position according to evolving circumstances.{{Cite web |date=2022-08-23 |title=Delhi Excise Policy: NDMC to Bring Censure Motion in Aug 24 Meeting |url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/delhi-excise-policy-ndmc-to-bring-censure-motion-in-aug-24-meeting-5808931.html |access-date=2022-09-06 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=3 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103112902/https://www.news18.com/news/india/delhi-excise-policy-ndmc-to-bring-censure-motion-in-aug-24-meeting-5808931.html }}{{Cite news |date=2022-08-06 |title=Delhi Excise Policy {{!}} Aam Aadmi Party alleges 'corruption' in change of decision by Centre's LG; seeks CBI probe |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/delhi-excise-policy-aam-aadmi-party-alleges-corruption-in-change-of-decision-by-centres-lg-seeks-cbi-probe/article65735648.ece |access-date=2022-09-06 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=3 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103112845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/delhi-excise-policy-aam-aadmi-party-alleges-corruption-in-change-of-decision-by-centres-lg-seeks-cbi-probe/article65735648.ece }}{{Cite web |date=2022-08-31 |title=Explained: All about Delhi reverting to its old liquor policy from Sept 1 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-delhi-reverting-its-old-liquor-policy-from-sept-1-8123219/ |access-date=2022-09-06 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=3 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103114826/https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-delhi-reverting-its-old-liquor-policy-from-sept-1-8123219/ }}{{Cite web |first=Munish Chandra |last=Pandey |date=August 25, 2022 |title=High on liquor policy: Retail margins up by 989 per cent under Delhi's new excise rules, show probe papers |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/retail-margins-up-under-delhi-new-excise-rules-show-probe-papers-1992484-2022-08-25 |access-date=2022-09-06 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=3 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103112844/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/retail-margins-up-under-delhi-new-excise-rules-show-probe-papers-1992484-2022-08-25 }}{{Cite web |date=2022-09-05 |title=Delhi L-G Saxena sends legal notice to AAP leaders for defamation |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/delhi-l-g-saxena-sends-legal-notice-to-aap-leaders-for-defamation-101662384484228.html |access-date=2022-09-06 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=3 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103143900/https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/delhi-l-g-saxena-sends-legal-notice-to-aap-leaders-for-defamation-101662384484228.html }}{{Cite web |title=Zee News: Latest News, Live Breaking News, Today News, India Political News Updates |url=https://zeenews.india.com/video/india/delhi-lt-governor-sends-legal-notice-to-aap-leaders-2506308.html |access-date=2022-09-06 |website=Zee News |language=en |archive-date=3 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103112845/https://zeenews.india.com/video/india/delhi-lt-governor-sends-legal-notice-to-aap-leaders-2506308.html }} After assuming office in 2022, Saxena recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the Delhi liquor scam.{{cite web|url=https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/kejriwal-s-arrest-latest-in-liquor-policy-scam-who-else-is-behind-bars-124032200367_1.html|title=Kejriwal's arrest latest in liquor policy 'scam': Who else is behind bars?|date=22 March 2024|access-date=27 March 2024|work=business-standard.com|location=New Delhi|first1=Nisha|last1=Anand}}{{cite news |title=Delhi excise policy: ED issues 9th summons to CM Arvind Kejriwal |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/delhi-excise-policy-ed-issues-9th-summons-to-arvind-kejriwal-101710647199168.html |work=Hindustan Times |date=17 March 2024 |access-date=24 March 2024 |archive-date=23 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323170150/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/delhi-excise-policy-ed-issues-9th-summons-to-arvind-kejriwal-101710647199168.html }}{{cite news |title=Arvind Kejriwal Arrested. He Skipped Summons 9 Times. See Details |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-arrested-he-skipped-summons-9-times-see-details-5284875 |work=NDTV |date=21 March 2024 |access-date=24 March 2024 |archive-date=23 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323170149/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-arrested-he-skipped-summons-9-times-see-details-5284875 }}{{cite news |last1=Kakkar |first1=Shruti |date=20 March 2024 |title="Why don't you appear on receiving ED summons": Delhi HC asks Arvind Kejriwal |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/why-don-t-you-appear-on-receiving-ed-summons-delhi-hc-asks-arvind-kejriwal-101710918644418.html |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=24 March 2024 |archive-date=23 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323171519/https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/why-don-t-you-appear-on-receiving-ed-summons-delhi-hc-asks-arvind-kejriwal-101710918644418.html }}{{cite news |last1=Joseph |first1=Manu |date=24 March 2024 |title=Why the arrest of Kejriwal may have big consequences |url=https://www.livemint.com/opinion/online-views/why-the-arrest-of-kejriwal-may-have-big-consequences-11711283051976.html |work=Mint |access-date=26 March 2024 |archive-date=25 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325144438/https://www.livemint.com/opinion/online-views/why-the-arrest-of-kejriwal-may-have-big-consequences-11711283051976.html }}

On 16 March 2023, AAP politician Sanjay Singh released a video, accusing Saxena of "leading a violent mob" against activist and later AAP candidate Medha Patkar in 2002 at Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat. Saxena said that it was an attempt to malign his image alleging a nexus between Patkar and AAP.{{Cite news |title=Delhi LG VK Saxena had led mob against Medha Patkar, alleges AAP |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/delhi-lg-vk-saxena-had-led-mob-against-medha-patkar-alleges-aap/amp_articleshow/98718246.cms |access-date=2024-05-21 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=21 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240521190401/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/delhi-lg-vk-saxena-had-led-mob-against-medha-patkar-alleges-aap/amp_articleshow/98718246.cms }} The case remains sub-judice, with Saxena named as an accused.{{Cite web |last=Jha,DHNS |first=Satish |title=Patkar attack video was to malign me: Delhi L-G |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/patkar-attack-video-was-to-malign-me-delhi-l-g-1209077.html |access-date=2024-05-21 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en |archive-date=21 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240521191138/https://www.deccanherald.com/india/patkar-attack-video-was-to-malign-me-delhi-l-g-1209077.html }} Later in 2024, Patkar was convicted of criminal defamation by a Delhi Court for degogratory remarks against Saxena in 2001.{{Cite news |last=Mishra |first=Ishita |date=2024-07-01 |title=Medha Patkar sentenced to five months in prison in 23-year-old defamation case |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/activist-medha-patkar-sentenced-to-five-months-jail-in-defamation-case/article68355114.ece |access-date=2024-12-24 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241213144548/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/activist-medha-patkar-sentenced-to-five-months-jail-in-defamation-case/article68355114.ece |archive-date=13 December 2024 }}

• 2000 – selected as one of the four referees by the Third World Network of Scientific Organisation, for evaluation of an important Joint Research Project in Yemen titled "Characterization an Environmental Prioritisation of the Coastal region in the state of Yemen".{{cite web|url=https://rls.net.in/vinai-kumar-saxena.php|title=Vinai Kumar Saxena — Biography|website=rls.net.in|publisher=Retail Leadership Summit|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211229211951/https://rls.net.in/vinai-kumar-saxena.php|archive-date=29 December 2021|access-date=27 February 2023}}
• 2007 – Dubai International Award constituted by UN-HABITAT, for best practices to improve living environment in the city of Ahmedabad through project 'Mission ENDURE'.
• 2008 – International Excellence Award by the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNDESD) for "Outstanding Contribution to Environment Protection and Water Security".{{Cite web |title=I'll work as local guardian': Vinai Kumar Saxena takes oath as Delhi's LG. 10 points |url=https://www.livemint.com/politics/news/vinai-kumar-saxena-takes-oath-as-delhi-s-lg-all-you-need-to-know/amp-11653549153085.html |date=26 May 2022 |access-date=28 January 2023 |website=livemint.com |publisher=LiveMint |language=en |archive-date=8 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608033958/https://www.livemint.com/politics/news/vinai-kumar-saxena-takes-oath-as-delhi-s-lg-all-you-need-to-know-11653549153085.html }}
• 2017 – Luxury League Award for contributions in promoting Khadi in India and worldwide.

• Racing to Restore: the Yamuna Memoir (December 2023) – autobiography ([https://web.archive.org/web/20240719071801/https://lg.delhi.gov.in/sites/default/files/publication/yamuna_racing_to_restore_copy_low_res.pdf archived copy of the book]: PDF).{{cite web|url=https://www.theweek.in/review/books/2023/12/31/the-yamuna-memoir-from-an-admirer-of-the-river-to-its-custodian.html|title=V.K. Saxena's Yamuna memoir: From an admirer of the river to its custodian|first1=Mohit|last1=Sharma|archive-date=29 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240229123922/https://www.theweek.in/review/books/2023/12/31/the-yamuna-memoir-from-an-admirer-of-the-river-to-its-custodian.html|date=31 December 2023|access-date=15 July 2024|work=The Week}}

• List of lieutenant governors of Delhi
• Third Kejriwal ministry

{{Reflist}}

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• {{cite web|url=https://www.et-gbs.com/gbs2020/speakers/vinai-kumar-saxena/|title=GBS 2020 — Speakers — Vinai Kumar Saxena [Chairman, Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) in India]|website=et-gbs.com|publisher=Global Business Summit|date=2020|access-date=6 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922072945/https://www.et-gbs.com/gbs2020/speakers/vinai-kumar-saxena/|archive-date=22 September 2020}}
• {{cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/court-suspends-medha-patkars-sentence-in-defamation-case-filed-by-former-delhi-l-g-vk-saxena/article68460458.ece|title=Court suspends Medha Patkar's sentence in defamation case filed by former Delhi L-G V.K. Saxena|date=29 July 2024|work=The Hindu|access-date=1 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240801144014/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/court-suspends-medha-patkars-sentence-in-defamation-case-filed-by-former-delhi-l-g-vk-saxena/article68460458.ece|location=New Delhi|archive-date=1 August 2024}}
• {{cite web|url=https://thewire.in/law/medha-patkar-gets-bail-in-2001-defamation-case-heres-what-the-complaint-was-about|title=Medha Patkar Gets Bail in 2001 Defamation Case: Here's What the Complaint Was About|date=30 July 2024|work=The Wire|access-date=1 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240801143654/https://m.thewire.in/article/law/medha-patkar-gets-bail-in-2001-defamation-case-heres-what-the-complaint-was-about|location=New Delhi|archive-date=1 August 2024}}

{{Refend}}

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• {{official website|https://delhi.gov.in/lt-governor-office|Profile of Vinai Kumar Saxena}} at the Government of Delhi official website
• [https://twitter.com/LtGovDelhi Lieutenant Governor of Delhi] on Twitter

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