From a young man in Srinagar with a vision for public service to becoming the Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir, Atal Dulloo’s journey is nothing short of a dream for any aspiring civil servant. As the first local to hold this esteemed position since 2017, Dulloo represents the heart and spirit of Jammu & Kashmir, bringing decades of experience and a deep commitment to his homeland. His career—shaped by challenging assignments, strong leadership, and unwavering loyalty to his roots—reflects both personal and professional dedication. Now, at a crucial moment for Jammu & Kashmir, Dulloo stands poised to lead with insight, integrity, and a steady commitment to progress.
GROWING UP IN THE VALLEY
Born on October 24, 1966, into a Kashmiri Pandit family in Srinagar, Atal Dulloo’s formative years were spent in the iconic landscapes of Jammu & Kashmir. He attended Tyndale Biscoe School in Srinagar, known for its emphasis on discipline and character building, before moving on to pursue engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. The pull toward public service led him to attempt the All India Civil Services Examination, where he succeeded on his first try in 1989, joining the IAS with a posting in Jammu & Kashmir.
EARLY YEARS IN ADMINISTRATION
Dulloo’s career began with field postings that would test his resolve and lay the foundation for his journey as a top administrator. He first served as Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Ladakh and later in Reasi, part of Udhampur district at the time. His skills soon earned him roles in the state health department and a posting in Raj Bhavan, the office of the Governor, where he handled crucial responsibilities.
In 1995, Dulloo was appointed Deputy Commissioner of Rajouri, where he made a name for himself by successfully conducting the state assembly elections during a challenging period, earning a state award for his service. Over the next decade, he served as Deputy Commissioner in Baramulla and Udhampur, progressively building a reputation as a reliable and capable administrator.
LEADERSHIP IN CRISIS
One of Dulloo’s most notable contributions came during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he served as Financial Commissioner of Health and Medical Education. At a time when resources were stretched, he oversaw the expansion of health infrastructure, ensured a steady supply of oxygen, and coordinated the emergency response across Jammu & Kashmir. His management of the crisis demonstrated his ability to lead under pressure and won him widespread recognition as an effective crisis manager.
DIVERSE ROLES
After his work in health, Dulloo continued to serve in high-impact roles, each contributing to Jammu & Kashmir’s governance in unique ways. As Financial Commissioner for Finance in 2021 and later for Agriculture Production, he developed policies that aimed to uplift local industries. His work on the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) demonstrated his commitment to supporting farmers and advancing the agricultural sector with an eye toward long-term growth and sustainability.
In July 2023, he was appointed as Secretary of Border Management under the Ministry of Home Affairs in Delhi, a role that further underscored his versatility and depth in handling critical national issues.
RETURNING TO LEAD
On November 29, 2023, Dulloo returned to Jammu & Kashmir as the new Chief Secretary, symbolizing not only a career milestone but also a homecoming to the place where his journey began. Known for his hands-on approach, he immediately engaged with Secretariat employees, encouraging them to voice their concerns and ideas openly. He also emphasized the importance of workplace improvements, including hygiene and aesthetics, to create a positive and efficient environment.
RECOGNITIONS
Dulloo’s career is marked by a series of awards and achievements. His accolades include a state award for election management in Rajouri in 1996 and a 2013 award for meritorious public service. An advocate for continuous learning, he has attended specialized training programs in countries like South Korea and the USA, studying healthcare policy, ethics, and governance.
A NEW ERA
Atal Dulloo’s appointment as Chief Secretary brings with it a sense of hope and renewed purpose for Jammu & Kashmir. With his rich experience, local insights, and proven track record, he is poised to lead the Union Territory through an era of stability and progress. His journey from Srinagar’s streets to the highest administrative office in the region is not just a professional achievement but a testament to his lifelong dedication to serving and uplifting his homeland.
CHALLENGES AHEAD
As the new Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir, Atal Dulloo faces pressing challenges that require immediate attention and decisive action. The ongoing power crisis, especially acute in Kashmir, has led the Administrative Council to approve an additional 500 MW of power to meet the region’s base load, an issue Dulloo will need to stabilize. The choked Achan landfill site in Srinagar, ignored for over six years despite National Green Tribunal directives, continues to impact residents’ health, with waste leaching into water sources like the Jhelum and Dal Lake. Corruption is another persistent issue, with low conviction rates undermining public confidence despite the Anti-Corruption Bureau’s efforts. Dulloo will also confront rural waste mismanagement under the Swachh Bharat Mission and unlawful riverbed mining that threatens vital ecosystems. Addressing these multifaceted issues will be essential for Dulloo to steer Jammu & Kashmir towards stability and sustainable growth.
ROLE OF CHIEF SECY.
The Chief Secretary is the highest-ranking official and most senior civil servant in the state government. This role includes being the head of the state Civil Services Board, the State Secretariat, and the state’s Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers, along with all other civil services in the state. The Chief Secretary serves as the main advisor to the Chief Minister on all matters of state administration.
