Haryana

The Powerhouse Class of 1989: Six Chief Secretaries Currently Serving

Anuj Gaur — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 08:07:34 +0000

The remarkable IAS batch of 1989 has delivered an extraordinary administrative milestone by producing a total number of 16 Chief Secretaries over the years. A rarest of rare things to happen!

10 of these 16 stalwart officers who held the highest post in state bureaucracies have already moved on after completing their tenure. These officers include Amritlal Meena (Bihar), Shivdas Meena (Tamil Nadu), Dharmendra (Delhi), Santhi Kumari (Telangana), Somesh Kumar (Telangana), Rebecca Suchiang (Meghalaya), TT Toy (Nagaland), Pavan Borthakur (Assam), BP Gopalika (Bengal), and Pankaj Joshi (Gujarat).

The other Six distinguished officers produced by this golden batch of 1989 currently helm the bureaucracy in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir.

Such outcomes are never accidental. They are shaped by years of perseverance, discipline and the quiet resolve that defines the civil service at its best. Surrounded by peers of equal caliber, these officers appear to have inspired one another to greater heights — turning a strong batch into a genuinely historic phenomenon!

Together, the six Chief Secretaries currently oversee governance for about 61 crore people — more than 40% of India’s total population. The scale of responsibility they collectively shoulder is immense, and their leadership sits at the heart of administration across some of India’s most politically and economically significant states and union territories.

Here’s a glimpse into their individual journeys.

Anurag Jain — the 35th Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh — brings to the role a blend of technical depth, policy exposure, and a calm administrative temperament shaped over three decades in public service.

A 1989-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, Jain took charge as Chief Secretary on 3 October 2024. Born in Gwalior, he is an alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, where he completed his B. Tech in Electrical Engineering, and the Maxwell School in the United States, from which he earned a Master’s in Public Administration — a combination that has long informed his analytical and reform-driven approach.

His career has traversed key positions across the state and Centre. From serving as Collector in Mandla, Mandsaur and Bhopal to holding senior roles such as Finance Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary, and Secretary to the Chief Minister, Jain has been central to several phases of the state’s administrative evolution. At the national level, his tenure as Joint Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office and later as Secretary in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways broadened his exposure to complex policymaking and national infrastructure development.

Jain has also been recognised for championing e-governance, earning the “Web Ratna Award” for initiatives that enhanced digital delivery and institutional efficiency.

Since assuming the top bureaucratic position in Madhya Pradesh, he has placed emphasis on timely service delivery, tighter administrative discipline, and stronger inter-departmental coordination. His one-year extension, now taking his tenure through August 2026, signals the confidence both the state and Centre place in his steady and results-oriented leadership.

At a time when Madhya Pradesh faces the dual demands of fiscal prudence and administrative strengthening, Anurag Jain’s mix of technical acumen, field experience, and reformist outlook positions him as a reliable and forward-looking steward of the state’s governance.

Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, a 1989-batch IAS officer, assumed charge as Karnataka’s Chief Secretary in July 2024, becoming only the fifth woman to occupy the state’s highest bureaucratic post. Backed by a formidable academic record — gold medals in Psychology, an MBA, and a Ph.D. in rural development — she brings intellectual depth to her administrative work.

Her wide-ranging career has included key assignments across finance, civil aviation, rural development, women and child welfare, and major reform-driven roles at both the state and central levels. As Mission Director of the Sakala programme, she led one of Karnataka’s most celebrated governance reforms, ensuring time-bound delivery of services and earning accolades such as the Google Innovation Award and a National e-Governance Award.

Widely regarded for her clarity, integrity and citizen-first approach, Dr. Rajneesh continues to drive efforts to streamline administration and strengthen transparent, technology-led public service delivery.

Atal Dulloo, a 1989-batch IAS officer from the AGMUT cadre, currently serves as Jammu & Kashmir’s Chief Secretary, carrying into the role both technical grounding as a civil engineer and decades of administrative experience in the region.

Recognised for his practical, results-driven approach, Dulloo has consistently pushed for on-schedule delivery of major urban programmes, including AMRUT and Swachh Bharat, while emphasising rigorous oversight and coordination across departments. His leadership has also been central to advancing large-scale agricultural and climate-resilience projects, where he has pressed for faster execution and closer integration with financial institutions to benefit farmers.

Dulloo’s steady, consensus-oriented style has stood out in moments of high pressure, particularly during recent elections, where the Election Commission acknowledged the administration’s smooth and efficient conduct under his supervision.

V. Srinivas, a 1989-batch IAS officer of the Rajasthan cadre, has formally taken charge as the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan, returning to the state after a widely noted stint at the Centre. A chemical engineer by training, with B.Tech and M.Tech degrees from Osmania University, Srinivas has served in several key Union government positions, including Secretary of the Departments of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, and Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare.

Born in Telangana and deeply shaped by decades of service in Rajasthan, Srinivas has also represented India at the International Monetary Fund and participated in global administrative forums, including the Commonwealth Heads of Public Service and Secretaries to Cabinet. He is a Digital India Award recipient for his leadership in implementing e-Office across the Government of India.

Assuming office as Chief Secretary in November 2025, he also heads Rajasthan State Mines & Minerals Ltd. His mandate focuses on strengthening administrative coordination, enhancing transparency, and accelerating policy implementation in line with the state’s ambitious “Viksit Rajasthan @ 2047” vision.

Notably, Srinivas recently achieved a rare international distinction—becoming the first Indian in 100 years to be elected President of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences, marking a milestone for India’s civil service leadership on the global stage.

Shashi Prakash Goyal, a 1989-batch IAS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, took over as the state’s Chief Secretary on July 31, 2025, succeeding Manoj Kumar Singh. His three-decade career began in Etawah as Assistant Magistrate, followed by key district leadership roles in Mathura, Prayagraj and Deoria.

Goyal also brought central administrative experience to the table, having served as Joint Secretary in the Department of Higher Education before returning to Lucknow in 2017 to play a pivotal role in the Chief Minister’s Office under Yogi Adityanath.

Widely regarded for his quiet efficiency, strategic clarity and ability to coordinate complex government machinery, he has long been seen as a reliable hand behind major policy execution. As Chief Secretary, Goyal has committed himself to the state’s core governance goals — zero tolerance, corruption-free administration, timely delivery of projects and accelerated economic growth — as he works to guide Uttar Pradesh’s developmental trajectory.

Rajesh Agarwal, a 1989-batch IAS officer from the Maharashtra cadre, has taken over as the state’s Chief Secretary from November 2025. His appointment marks a return to Mumbai after an impactful tenure at the Centre, where he most recently served as Secretary in the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
Agarwal’s career spans key assignments in information technology, finance and administrative reforms, reflecting a rare breadth of expertise across critical governance sectors. Colleagues often describe him as a measured, reform-driven administrator with a knack for simplifying complex systems and pushing institutions toward greater efficiency.

With a one-year tenure ahead, Agarwal is seen as the steady, methodical hand Maharashtra needs—someone capable of ensuring policy continuity, sharpening administrative processes and reinforcing accountability at a time when governance demands both speed and stability.

Anurag Rastogi Appointed as Haryana Chief Secretary, Succeeding Vivek Joshi

Anuj Gaur — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 11:33:53 +0000

In a significant bureaucratic reshuffle, Anurag Rastogi, a 1990-batch IAS officer, has been appointed as the Chief Secretary of Haryana, replacing Vivek Joshi (IAS: 1989: HY), who took charge as Election Commissioner earlier in the day. Rastogi’s appointment was officially confirmed late Wednesday night.

According to an official order, Rastogi will oversee several key departments, including General Administration, Human Resources, Personnel & Training, Parliamentary Affairs, Vigilance, and Plan Coordination. Additionally, he will continue as the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the Finance and Planning Department, further consolidating his leadership in Haryana’s administration.

Rastogi’s appointment follows Haryana’s long-standing tradition of elevating the Financial Commissioner Revenue (FCR) to Chief Secretary. He is expected to take charge today and is set to retire on June 30, 2025. Before this promotion, he served as the ACS & Financial Commissioner in the Revenue & Disaster Management & Consolidation Department, playing a pivotal role in shaping Haryana’s financial and disaster management policies.

His predecessor, Vivek Joshi, had a brief tenure as Chief Secretary after taking over on November 1, 2024, following the retirement of TVSN Prasad (IAS: 1988: HY). Joshi’s transition to Election Commissioner marks a significant shift in Haryana’s top bureaucratic structure.

Originally from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, Rastogi embarked on his administrative career as SDM of Narnaul on August 17, 1992. Over the years, he has held key positions, including ADC, DC of Panipat and Hisar, and served as Director and Principal Secretary in various departments. He was elevated to Additional Chief Secretary in 2021.

This high-profile appointment underscores Haryana’s commitment to strengthening administrative efficiency, financial planning, and strategic governance. With Rastogi at the helm, the state is expected to witness stronger policy execution and enhanced bureaucratic coordination in the coming months.

IAS Dr. Vivek Joshi: From Hisar to Geneva: Charting the Inspiring Career of Haryana’s Chief Secretary

Anuj Gaur — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 07:52:22 +0000

Dr. Vivek Joshi, IAS (1989 Batch)…
Dr. Vivek Joshi’s illustrious career as an IAS officer exemplifies a commitment to administrative excellence and policy innovation. A member of the 1989 IAS batch of the Haryana cadre, Dr. Joshi has ascended to the pinnacle of state administration as the Chief Secretary of Haryana. His journey reflects a dynamic blend of academic rigor, field experience, and a distinguished tenure in central and state assignments.

Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Joshi holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) from the University of Roorkee (now IIT Roorkee), a Postgraduate Diploma in International Business from the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), and an M.A. and Ph.D. in International Economics from the University of Geneva. His academic pursuits underscore a deep engagement with global trade and economic policy, areas that have informed his approach to governance.

Dr. Joshi began his service in 1989, embarking on roles that honed his skills in administration and public policy. His early assignments included stints as Assistant Commissioner and Sub-Divisional Officer in Haryana, where he demonstrated exceptional aptitude in district administration.

Deputy Commissioner, Hisar and Jind: As Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Joshi showcased strong leadership in district governance, focusing on land revenue management and infrastructure development.
Principal Secretary Roles: In Haryana, he served as Principal Secretary in key departments such as Women and Child Development, Sainik Welfare, and Trade Fair Authority, steering significant reforms in public welfare and industrial promotion.
Divisional Commissioner, Ambala: His tenure in Ambala marked impactful efforts in revenue management and administrative efficiency.

Dr. Joshi’s expertise gained national recognition with his deputation to the Government of India, where he undertook critical roles:

Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (2019–2022):* Dr. Joshi played a pivotal role in leading the country’s Census operations and managing demographic data critical for policy planning.
Secretary, Department of Financial Services (2022–2024):* His leadership in the finance ministry involved spearheading initiatives to enhance financial inclusion and streamline banking operations.

Currently, as Chief Secretary of Haryana, Dr. Joshi oversees the administrative machinery of the state, ensuring the implementation of policies that foster development and good governance. His tenure has been marked by a focus on modernizing administrative practices, fostering public-private partnerships, and prioritizing economic growth.

A scholar-practitioner, Dr. Joshi has contributed significantly to the academic discourse on international trade. His publications in esteemed journals, such as the Journal of World Trade and Asian Economic Journal, reflect deep insights into preferential tariff formation and trade agreements.

Dr. Joshi’s career has been enriched by numerous training programs, including the Phase V Mid-Career Training Programme and international courses on trade policy under the World Trade Organization in Switzerland. His exposure to global best practices has equipped him with a unique perspective on governance and economic development.

Dr. Vivek Joshi’s career is a testament to the impact that an accomplished administrator can have on public service. His blend of academic achievement, policy acumen, and field experience positions him as a transformative leader in Haryana’s governance landscape.

IAS Abhinav Gopal – India’s Very Own IronMan Bureaucrat

Anuj Gaur — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 09:01:24 +0000

IAS officer Abhinav Gopal’s life has been full of accomplishments and yet he is always striving for more. “Accomplishments only fuel my desire for greater challenges,” he says. Originally from the Prayagraj district of Uttar Pradesh, he is currently serving as the Chief Development Officer in Ghaziabad.

IAS Abhinav Gopal is an IIT Madras alumni, who is no stranger to significant achievements. He completed his early education in his hometown and earned his B.Tech and M.Tech degrees from the prestigious IIT Madras. He became an IFS officer and later, cleared the UPSC to become an IAS officer. Recently, he has added another feather in his cap by successfully finishing the world’s most gruelling athletic endeavour, the Ironman Triathlon.

As both a public servant and an athlete, Gopal has pushed boundaries to leave a significant impact in governance and sports. His transition from the bureaucratic world to the demanding Ironman Triathlon exemplifies his unwavering commitment to excellence.

For the uninitiated, the Ironman Triathlon consists of a 3.9 km swim, 180.2 km bike ride, and a 42.2 km marathon, all of which must be completed without any break or rest. This is not an easy feat for any participant and even those who are highly trained have been known to bow out.

IAS Abhinav Gopal completed this seemingly impossible challenge in 14 hours and 28 minutes, demonstrating incredible athleticism, focus and determination. He tackled each demanding segment of the triathlon with a level of endurance that garnered international attention. Needless to say that he had rigorously trained for the Ironman competition for months before applying for the government permission for his participation in the event.

He prepared for the Ironman along with his batchmate Deepak Karwa, IAS Haryana cadre. They prepared together, and kept motivating and pushing each other during the entire preparation duration under their Coach, Kishlay Kumar Rai who himself is a 13 times Ironman and will soon be representing India in the Ironman World Championships this year in October in Kona, Hawai.

The triathlon itself is a true test of endurance. In Estonia, Gopal faced frigid waters at a temperature of 17 degrees Celsius during the swim, presenting a very tough initial challenge. The subsequent 180-kilometer bike ride through rugged terrain required intense concentration and stamina, while the final 42-kilometer marathon pushed him to the limits of his physical capabilities. His successful completion of the triathlon underscored his remarkable endurance and mental resilience, securing his place in the Ironman legacy.

“The Ironman challenge represented not just a race, but a chance for me to test my limits. With steadfast resolve, I approached this formidable challenge, seeing it as the ultimate evaluation of my physical and mental capabilities and I am proud to say that I proved to myself what I believed from the very outset, that I am indeed an Iron Man,” he says with a smile.

IAS Abhinav Gopal earned the Ironman Triathlon’s Finisher title, joining an elite group of just 1,000 participants worldwide. This international event was organized by the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) on August 24 in Estonia, Northern Europe.

IAS Abhinav Gopal has had a passion for sports and athletics since his early years. Since the age of five, he has won numerous competitions, including recognition as a national-level swimmer. In 2022, he earned the Half Ironman title, and this year, he proved his capabilities by conquering the full Ironman.

It is indeed a matter of great pride for the whole nation that IAS Abhinav Gopal has successfully completed the Ironman Triathlon, one of the toughest international competitions.

IAS Abhinav Gopal’s academic journey is no less inspiring, which began at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, where he earned both his B.Tech and M.Tech degrees. He then took the CAPF exam in 2015 and became an Indian Forest Service officer in 2017. However, he still wished to pursue his dream to become an IAS officer, a goal that he finally achieved through his hard work and determination when he passed the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2019.

His exemplary story encompasses not just the Ironman achievement, but the entire journey that brought him to this point. Balancing his responsibilities as the Chief Development Officer of Ghaziabad with his dedication to fitness, he exemplifies how physical health can enhance the quality of both professional and personal life.

“Fitness encompasses more than just physical health and involves mental well-being too. It is imperative to navigate professional challenges with greater efficiency and effectiveness. I truly believe that a disciplined approach in life demonstrates that excelling in demanding roles and maintaining physical fitness can coexist, contributing to overall success of any individual.

His philosophy resonates widely, serving as a source of inspiration for colleagues and the broader public. According to him, fitness is an essential aspect of a balanced lifestyle, enhancing productivity and mental clarity.

“I sincerely hope that my journey inspires people to take better care of their health and keep themselves in shape no matter how hard it may seem considering their work and other commitments. So, let us all make genuine efforts to stay fit. We all owe it to ourselves and our families,” he concludes.

It is indeed a whole new way of looking at one’s achievements. In times like today when everyone’s focused on immediate gratification, IAS Abhinav Gopal represents the values of perseverance, patience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

His story challenges established views on what can be accomplished, proving that with the right mindset, no challenge is insurmountable. His rigorous year-long training regimen, balancing morning and evening workouts, exemplifies his ability to harmonize professional obligations with personal goals. It will be no wonder to see his accomplishments inspire future generations, illustrating the limitless potential of the human spirit.

Let’s cheer for our own Ironman!

IAS Sujata Saunik – A True Inspiration for Female Officers & Aspirants…

Anuj Gaur — Sat, 21 Sep 2024 06:47:03 +0000

IAS Sujata Saunik, a 1987 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Maharashtra cadre, has had an illustrious career spanning over three decades. A native of Haryana, with Hindi as her mother tongue, she has displayed a remarkable aptitude in administration, working across diverse sectors at both the state and central levels.

The highlight of her illustrious career is surely her recent appointment as Maharashtra’s first female Chief Secretary. Her journey towards this achievement is sure to inspire all female officers and aspirants.

IAS Sujata Saunik holds postgraduate and undergraduate degrees in History and Political Science from Punjab University. She was a Gold medalist and topper in History Honours and her record remained unbroken for several years even after she joined the service.

Her intellectual prowess has been instrumental in building the foundation of her career in public service, where she has handled some of the most critical portfolios across various departments.

Under the Government of India, she served as the Executive Director in the Central Social Welfare Board in the Ministry of Women and Child Development, and as the Advisor and Jt. Secretary in the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) under the Ministry of Home Affairs. She later returned to the state and worked in the department of Public Health and Financial Reforms as the Principal Secretary.

As Additional Chief Secretary she served in Skill Development, General Administration, Administrative Reforms and Home departments.

She received her first award as Principal Secretary Health from Hon’ble Union Minister Shri JP Nadda, for reduction in maternal mortality in the state. She has also been the recipient of several SKOCH Awards for Excellence.

Currently serving as the Chief Secretary to the Government of Maharashtra since July 2024, IAS Sujata Saunik has played a pivotal role in overseeing personnel and general administration. Prior to this, she held the post of Additional Chief Secretary in the Home Department from June 2023. She has also been entrusted with multiple significant assignments in the General Administration Department between 2020 and 2023, where she was responsible for administrative reforms and personnel management.

Her earlier career saw her serve as the Additional Chief Secretary in the Department of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, demonstrating her commitment to empowering youth and advancing economic opportunities in the state. From 2016 to 2017, IAS Sujata Saunik was also the Principal Secretary of the Finance Department in Maharashtra, showcasing her expertise in financial management.

IAS Sujata Saunik has also garnered international exposure during her foreign training stint in New York between 2017 and 2019, where she gained valuable insights in health and family welfare, which would later inform her domestic administrative responsibilities in the Public Health Department from 2013 to 2016.

She was instrumental in leading health initiatives as the Principal Secretary for Public Health in Maharashtra, managing critical public health programs, including those related to tuberculosis and organ donation, for which she received national recognition.

Her earlier roles also included serving as the District Collector in Jalgaon and Municipal Commissioner of Nashik, where she managed urban development and land revenue administration. Additionally, her international experience extended to a role in Kosovo as a Civil Affairs Officer with the Government of India, focusing on training and capacity building from 2000 to 2004.

Throughout her career, IAS Sujata Saunik has pursued continuous learning, participating in multiple training programs, including prestigious stints at Harvard University and the University of Cambridge. She has been honored with various awards for her work in public health and governance, notably receiving the Custodians of Humanity Award in 2021 and several accolades for her efforts in promoting organ donation and male sterilization programs.

With her extensive experience in governance, administrative reforms, and public health, IAS Sujata Saunik continues to serve Maharashtra with dedication, leaving a lasting impact on the state’s administrative landscape.

IAS Mamta Yadav: Village to UPSC AIR 5, Cracked Exam Twice with Self-Study, Now Posted as…

Anuj Gaur — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 10:04:36 +0000

One inspiring story is that of IAS Mamta Yadav, hailing from Basai village in Haryana. Her father, Ashok Yadav, is employed in a private company, while her mother manages the household.Some individuals achieve remarkable success despite humble beginnings and significant challenges.

One such inspiring story is that of IAS Mamta Yadav, a native of Basai village in Haryana. Her father, Ashok Yadav, works in a private company, and her mother is a homemaker. Mamta completed her schooling at Balwant Rai Mehta School in Delhi and graduated from Hindu College, DU.

Determined to fulfill her dream of becoming an IAS officer, she dedicated four years to UPSC preparation. In 2019, she cleared the exam with an AIR of 556 but fell short of her IAS goal. Undeterred, Mamta attempted the exam again in 2020, securing an impressive AIR 5, making her the first IAS officer from her village.

In addition to attending coaching classes, Mamta Yadav dedicated herself to rigorous self-study, initially committing 8 to 10 hours daily, which she later increased to 10 to 12 hours. Relying on NCERT books and other study materials, she methodically prepared for the exam.

Her father expressed immense pride, sharing that his daughter’s achievement as the village’s first IAS officer has brought him great fulfillment. Mamta is currently serving as the SDM of Najafgarh.

IAS Manoj Ahuja: The 1990 batch IAS officer Manoj Ahuja has been appointed as the Chief Secretary of Odisha, succeeding Pradeep Kumar Jena.

Anuj Gaur — Sat, 29 Jun 2024 09:22:16 +0000

The 1990-batch IAS officer, with extensive administrative experience, was most recently posted as the Union Agriculture Secretary.

On Friday, the newly formed BJP government in Odisha appointed Manoj Ahuja, a 1990-batch cadre officer, as the new chief secretary following the retirement of incumbent Pradeep Kumar Jena on June 30. Additionally, Ahuja has been appointed as the secretary of the general administration department.

A native of Haryana, Ahuja has been on central deputation since 2017 and has now been repatriated to his parent cadre, Odisha, at the request of the state government. He will be the first person from outside Odisha to serve as the state’s top administrator in two decades.

Ahuja, who has extensive administrative experience, was most recently posted as the Union agriculture secretary. He has previously held significant positions such as the special director of the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) and chairman of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).

During his tenure with the state government, Ahuja held positions as secretary of several key departments, including cooperation, steel and mines, sports and youth affairs, and food supplies and consumer welfare. He also served as commissioner of commercial tax.

Ahuja’s repatriation from the Centre and subsequent appointment as chief secretary is particularly noteworthy given that many of the ministers in the new BJP government lack experience in managing portfolios.

Ahuja’s role will be crucial not only for the successful implementation of the BJP’s election promises but also in selecting senior IAS officers for various departments and district collectors in the Mohan Majhi government. As the chief minister has yet to choose his team, these appointments are expected to take place after Ahuja assumes his position as chief secretary.

Sources indicate that the Odisha government, following the advice of the BJP central leadership, requested Ahuja’s repatriation from the Centre.

“The new government has yet to begin functioning fully. It remains unclear whether all the schemes run by the previous BJD government will continue. Ahuja’s advice on these matters will be significant,” said a senior bureaucrat.

According to his profile on NABARD, Ahuja holds a B.E. (Mechanical) degree from Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala; an MBA from Punjab University, Chandigarh; and a Master’s in Public Administration (International Development) from Harvard University, USA.