Bhopal/New Delhi: IAS officer Avinash Lavania (IAS: 2009: MP) has been appointed as Director in the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, for a tenure of five years under the Central Staffing Scheme. The appointment order was issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on Tuesday, 18 November 2025. He will take charge after being relieved from his duties in Madhya Pradesh. Directive Issued to Relieve Him Immediately In its official communication to the Madhya Pradesh Chief Secretary, DoPT has instructed the state government to immediately relieve Lavania, enabling him to join his new post in Delhi at the earliest. His appointment will be valid for five years from the date he assumes charge or until further orders. Read also: IAS Nandini KR Visits Media House, Inspires Young Journalists with Her Vision and Insights Currently Serving as MD of MP Power Management Company Before his central deputation, Avinash Lavania was serving as the Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Power Management Company Limited (MPPMCL), Jabalpur, a role he has held since January 2025. His administrative capabilities and contributions in the energy sector have been widely acknowledged, particularly for his focus on efficiency and operational improvements. Rich Administrative Experience in Madhya Pradesh Lavania has held several significant positions in the Madhya Pradesh government. Notably, he served as: Collector, Bhopal Bhopal Municipal Corporation Commissioner (2018) Collector, Hoshangabad Various key roles across departments in the state government His brief six-month tenure as Bhopal Municipal Commissioner began in May 2018 under the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government. After the government transition in December 2018, he was replaced by P. Vijay Dutta. Known for Effective Work Ethic During his various administrative roles, Lavania has earned a reputation for: Effective implementation of public welfare schemes Strong management in urban governance Streamlined electrical and energy sector operations His work in the power sector, in particular, has been frequently praised by senior officials. Personal Background Avinash Lavania belongs to the 2009 batch of the Indian Administrative Service (MP cadre). He is also the son-in-law of former Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra, a fact that previously drew political attention during administrative reshuffles under different state governments. Will Soon Join Duty in Delhi Following DoPT orders, Lavania is expected to assume his new responsibilities at the Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare soon. His experience across governance, energy management, and district administration is expected to aid key agricultural policy initiatives at the national level. Read also: Centre Orders IAS Officers to Choose Between OPS, NPS or Unified Pension Scheme by November 30
