Shri Puneet Kumar Goel, a distinguished officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) from the AGMUT cadre of the 1991 batch, has cultivated over 25 years of comprehensive experience in administration and management, focusing on key areas such as energy, urban water supply, and financial advisory. Throughout his extensive career, he has worked with a range of national and international organizations, including ministries of the Government of India, corporate entities, and international funding bodies, gaining significant expertise in the power and renewable energy sectors.
Shri Goel’s educational journey is as impressive as his professional career. He holds multiple advanced degrees that have equipped him with a strong foundation in technical, managerial, and financial disciplines. His M.Tech. in Power Systems Engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, where he later completed a Ph.D. in Renewable Energy, highlights his deep technical knowledge in the energy domain. Furthering his skill set, he obtained an M.B.A. in Finance from Indira Gandhi National Open University , Delhi, and an M.S. in Computer Networks from a university in California, USA. These qualifications provided Shri Goel with the theoretical and practical tools needed to handle the complex challenges of his administrative roles.
Shri Goel began his career in public administration with positions that emphasized land revenue management and district administration. His initial postings as Deputy Collector in Goa (1993-1995) and Deputy Commissioner in Arunachal Pradesh (1997-1999) gave him a solid grounding in governance and field-level administration. These roles were essential for honing his leadership skills, particularly in managing complex administrative functions at the district level .
He also served in significant roles within the power sector, starting with the Delhi Vidyut Board , where he worked as an Additional General Manager in 1999. He quickly rose through the ranks, assuming key positions within the power and finance sectors. From 2004 to 2005, he served as Secretary (Finance) and Secretary (Power) in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, overseeing critical financial and energy-related responsibilities.
In 2005, Shri Goel embarked on a seven-year central deputation, where he held the positions of Director and Executive Director at the Rural Electrification Corporation Ltd. , a crucial public sector enterprise that plays a pivotal role in India’s rural electrification and energy infrastructure. During this tenure, he gained invaluable experience in power management, furthering his expertise in both conventional and renewable energy systems. This period also allowed him to develop strong relationships with various stakeholders in the energy sector, including corporate bodies and international organizations.
Shri Goel’s experience in the power sector is extensive, spanning over nine years, with a particular focus on renewable energy in recent years. His technical qualifications in power systems and renewable energy, combined with his vast administrative experience, have positioned him as a leader in India’s energy transition efforts. His tenure at the Rural Electrification Corporation was marked by strategic initiatives to promote rural electrification and improve energy access across India. Furthermore, his Ph.D. in Renewable Energy from IIT Delhi underscores his dedication to the sector’s evolving landscape, particularly as India seeks to expand its renewable energy footprint.
Shri Goel’s administrative versatility is evident in his roles within urban governance and municipal administration. From 2014 to 2019, he served as Commissioner of the South Delhi Municipal Corporation , first as a Joint Secretary and then as an Additional Secretary. His leadership at SDMC was pivotal in managing urban development projects and municipal services in one of the largest urban agglomerations in the country. Under his stewardship, SDMC undertook several initiatives to improve urban infrastructure, waste management, and public services.
Shri Puneet Kumar Goel’s career reached new heights when he was appointed Chief Secretary to the Government of Goa in February 2022, the highest-ranking position in the state administration. Prior to this, he had served as the Development Commissioner and Principal Secretary in the state from 2019 to 2022. His tenure in Goa has been marked by a focus on environmental conservation, particularly within the Environment and Forests department. As Chief Secretary, Shri Goel has been at the forefront of coordinating policy initiatives, ensuring the smooth functioning of government operations, and addressing key administrative challenges. His leadership in Goa demonstrates his ability to balance developmental needs with environmental sustainability, a key concern in a state known for its rich biodiversity.
Shri Goel’s commitment to professional growth is evident from his participation in several high-level domestic and international training programs. He completed the Phase IV Programme of Mandatory Mid-Career Training for IAS officers in 2007, focusing on enhancing his leadership and management capabilities. His foreign training includes a program on the management of public-private partnerships (PPP) at the Australian National University in 2008. These experiences have further sharpened his expertise in governance, public administration, and project management.
With over two decades of experience across various sectors, Shri Puneet Kumar Goel’s career reflects a blend of technical proficiency and administrative acumen. His deep involvement in the power sector, particularly in renewable energy, coupled with his leadership roles in urban development and state administration, showcases his ability to handle multifaceted responsibilities. As the Chief Secretary of Goa, he continues to play a crucial role in shaping the state’s policy landscape, contributing to both its economic development and environmental sustainability.
Shri Goel’s journey from district-level administration to the highest echelons of state governance is a testament to his versatility, dedication, and leadership. His expertise in energy and power, particularly in renewable energy, remains a highlight of his career, positioning him as a key figure in India’s ongoing efforts towards sustainable development.
