RAJIV KUMAR LIKELY TO BE NEXT UP CHIEF SECRETARY
LUCKNOW: Rajiv Kumar, a 1981 batch IAS officer of the state cadre and union secretary, shipping, is likely to become the next chief secretary of Uttar Pradesh.
Although the state government is yet to issue an order about Kumar’s appointment as chief secretary, the union government has approved Kumar’s premature repatriation to the state.
An order, signed by secretary, appointments committee of union cabinet, on June 21, 2017 reads: “Appointments committee of the cabinet has approved premature repatriation of Shri Rajiv Kumar IAS (UP 81) secretary, ministry of shipping, to his parent cadre.”
Kumar will replace Rahul Bhatnagar, who may be shifted to some other post.
Bhatnagar has been empanelled for secretary’s post with the union government and may also go on deputation to the centre.
An upright officer, Kumar has held various important posts in the state. He was considered a front runner for chief secretary’s post ever since installation of the Yogi Adityanath-led BJP government in the state on March 19, 2017. The chief minister, it is said, was keen on having Kumar as the state’s chief secretary.
Kumar was not available for comment. Sources, however, said he may join soon. Kumar’s appointment may trigger an administrative reshuffle in the state. Meanwhile, senior IAS officer Sanjay Bhusreddy has returned from central deputation and is likely to get an important post soon.