Born on July 25, 1965, in Ranchi, Jharkhand, Shri Manoj Kumar Singh, a highly esteemed Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1988 batch, recently took charge as the new chief secretary of Uttar Pradesh. As one of the senior-most officers in the state, he has earned a stellar reputation in the bureaucracy due to his experience and efficiency but also unimpeachable integrity, tenacity, and a strong work ethic, IAS Manoj Kumar Singh is recognised as a consistent performer.
His service record exemplifies dedication and professionalism in public service. With a rich academic background and an exemplary career spanning over three decades, he has made significant contributions to the governance and development of Uttar Pradesh. His professional journey is marked with a series of progressive appointments, impactful initiatives, and a commitment to improving the lives of citizens.
IAS Manoj Kumar Singh pursued his education with a strong focus on agriculture. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture followed by a Master of Science in Agronomy, both of which equipped him with valuable knowledge and laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in the administrative services.
IAS Manoj Kumar Singh joined the services on August 31, 1988, through direct recruitment. His entry into government service was marked by a commitment to public welfare and a determination to address the challenges faced by the state’s populace. Due to his commitment and result oriented approach, he soon began to ascend the ranks within the Uttar Pradesh cadre.
Shri Singh’s career trajectory includes a diverse range of responsibilities across various departments. He has held numerous pivotal positions, contributing to both state and central administrations:
Initial Years (1990-2001): After his confirmation in the services in 1990, Singh’s early assignments included key roles in land revenue management and district administration. He served as the District Collector and District Magistrate in various districts, including Lalitpur and Pilibhit. These roles honed his administrative skills and provided firsthand experience in grassroots governance.
Industrial & Urban Development (2002-2013): Transitioning to more senior roles, he served as the Director of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises at the central level, where he focused on industrial development. Subsequently, he was appointed the Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Noida Authority, significantly contributing to urban development in the region.
Leadership Roles (2014-2022): His tenure as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change from October 2014 to August 2017 marked a significant chapter in his career. Here, he played a crucial role in shaping policies related to environmental sustainability and climate action. Following this, he returned to Uttar Pradesh and was appointed the Additional Chief Secretary in the Panchayati Raj Department, furthering local self-governance initiatives.
Current Appointment (2024): As of June 30, 2024, IAS Manoj Kumar Singh has taken on the role of Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh, a position of immense responsibility that underscores his extensive experience and leadership capabilities. In this critical role, he oversees the state’s administrative functions and implements policies that impact millions of residents in the state.
Throughout his career, Shri Singh has been involved in several noteworthy initiatives aimed at improving governance and enhancing service delivery:
Rural Development Projects: His work in rural development has focused on empowering local self-governments, improving infrastructure, and ensuring the efficient delivery of services to rural communities.
Urban Development: During his tenure in urban development, Singh implemented key projects aimed at improving urban infrastructure and housing, particularly in the Greater Noida area, which has become a model for sustainable urban planning.
Environmental Initiatives: As Joint Secretary at the central level, he was instrumental in formulating policies addressing climate change and promoting sustainable environmental practices.
Over the years, IAS Singh has continually worked on his professional development, participating in various training programs to enhance his skills and knowledge. Notably, he completed a Master’s in Public Administration at the University of Minnesota, which broadened his understanding of public policy and governance. He also attended mid-career training programs to keep abreast of the latest developments in administration.
Fluent in Hindi and English, Manoj Kumar Singh effectively communicates across diverse groups, facilitating better engagement with both officials and the public. His commitment to service, combined with his academic background and administrative acumen, positions him as a capable leader in the IAS community.
Shri Manoj Kumar Singh’s journey from a young student in Ranchi to the Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh is a testament to his dedication and service to the nation. His extensive experience, commitment to public welfare, and leadership in key administrative roles highlight the impact he has made in the Indian Administrative Service. His initiatives will undoubtedly continue shaping the future of Uttar Pradesh, ensuring a better quality of life for its residents.
As IAS Manoj Kumar Singh continues to navigate the complexities of governance and reaches new heights in his career, his journey is sure to inspire hundreds of young administrative officers on whose shoulders lie the welfare and development of our great nation.
