1989 batch IAS officer of Sikkim cadre, Mr Govind Mohan will be the new ‘Home Secretary of India.’ In a significant pre-Independence Day development, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has appointed Mr Mohan, as the new Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
He is currently serving as Secretary in the Ministry of Culture and will take over the role of Union Home Secretary from Ajay Kumar Bhalla, an IAS officer of 1984 batch from Assam-Meghalaya cadre, upon the completion of Bhalla’s extended tenure on August 22, 2024. Until then, he will serve as OSD in the MHA.
Mr Bhalla, the current Home Secretary, was granted an extension of his tenure on August 4, 2023. This extension was in relaxation of the Fundamental Rule 56(d) and Rule 16(1A) of the All India Services (Death-cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules, 1958. His extended term is set to conclude on August 22, 2024.
Mr Mohan’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as the nation gears up to celebrate its 78th Independence Day. With his extensive experience in government service, Mohan is expected to bring valuable insights and continuity to the Ministry of Home Affairs.
His appointment comes at a crucial juncture, particularly with the forthcoming Jammu and Kashmir elections. He will face immediate challenges including overseeing the security assessment and arrangements for the elections. This task will require close coordination with the Election Commission to ensure that adequate security personnel are deployed, as recommended, to safeguard candidates and ensure a peaceful election process in the Union Territory.
The transition is anticipated to be smooth, with Bhalla’s longstanding contributions to the Home Ministry being recognized as he steps down after his extended term.
