Bureaucrats Magazine – In a significant administrative reshuffle, the 1993 batch IAS officer of Assam-Meghalaya cadre, Dr. Ravi Kota, has been appointed as the next Chief Secretary to the Government of Assam. The appointment will take effect from the superannuation date of the present Chief Secretary, Mr. Paban Kumar Borthakur, on March 31.
Bureaucrats Magazine – This development follows the extension of Mr. Pawan Kumar Borthakur’s tenure for an additional three months in December 2023, making Dr. Ravi Kota’s appointment a pivotal change in the state’s bureaucratic landscape.
Bureaucrats Magazine – The official order issued by the personnel department of the Assam government on Tuesday stated, “Dr. Ravi Kota, IAS is appointed as Chief Secretary to the Govt. of Assam with effect from the date of superannuation of Shri Paban Kumar Borthakur, IAS Chief Secretary to the Govt. of Assam on 31/03/2024.”
Bureaucrats Magazine – In addition to his role as Chief Secretary, Dr. Kota has been entrusted with the responsibilities of Additional Chief Secretary for the Industries, Commerce & Public Enterprises Department, along with an additional charge of the Finance Department. He will also serve as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Office of Chief Secretary, Assam.
Bureaucrats Magazine – Previously, Dr. Kota served as the Additional Chief Secretary for the Home & Political Department, including Passport and Prisons. His diverse experience ranges from state administration to senior policy positions at the Union level, covering sectors such as food and agriculture, human resources, urban infrastructure, and internal security.
Bureaucrats Magazine – During his tenure as Principal Secretary, Finance, in Assam, Dr. Kota successfully navigated the state finances through critical transitions, including the post-Planning Commission era, demonetization, and the implementation of GST. His strategic management included mobilizing internal resources through taxation and market borrowings, as well as obtaining external support from multilateral development assistance.
Bureaucrats Magazine – His role as Joint Secretary at the 15th Finance Commission, Ministry of Finance, Government of India, provided him with in-depth knowledge of fiscal issues across states and Union Territories. Dr. Kota’s contributions extended to the international arena when he served as the head of the economic wing of the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C., focusing on India-US economic relations and climate partnerships.
Bureaucrats Magazine – Born on April 12, 1966, in Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Ravi Kota has also served as the Principal Resident Commissioner of Assam Bhawan in New Delhi, showcasing his versatility in administrative roles. His multifaceted experience positions him as a key figure in steering Assam’s administrative and economic landscape in the coming years.
