Lucknow: The corridors of power in Uttar Pradesh are abuzz with speculation over the post of Chief Secretary, as the tenure of the incumbent Manoj Kumar Singh is set to expire on July 31, 2025. With no official word yet from the central government, the suspense surrounding his possible extension or replacement is growing.
Mr Singh, a 1988 batch IAS officer, was appointed Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh on June 30, 2024. Widely seen as a trusted and influential bureaucrat in the Yogi Adityanath government, Singh has played a key role in driving industrial development, attracting investment, and helping shape the state’s one trillion-dollar economy vision.
Proposal for Extension Sent to Centre
According to senior officials, the Yogi Adityanath-led government has formally recommended an extension of one year for Manoj Kumar Singh. A letter to this effect has been sent to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) at the Centre.
The proposal cites Singh’s pivotal role in major events such as the Global Investors Summit and the Ground Breaking Ceremony, along with his performance in policy coordination and bureaucratic streamlining.
However, the final call lies with the central government, and an official decision is expected by July 30.
Who’s in the Race if Extension Denied?
If the Centre does not grant an extension, the stage is set for a change at the top of the state bureaucracy. Several senior IAS officers are being considered as frontrunners–
SP Goyal (1989 Batch): Currently serving as Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, Goyal is considered to be one of CM Yogi Adityanath’s closest advisors. Known for his administrative control and influence within the secretariat, Goyal is viewed as a strong internal candidate.
Devesh Chaturvedi (1989 Batch): Serving as Secretary, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, Chaturvedi is known for his competence and crisis management abilities. He was District Magistrate of Gorakhpur during Yogi Adityanath’s MP tenure. His appointment would require clearance from the central government.
Deepak Kumar (1990 Batch): Currently holding the position of Agriculture Production Commissioner, Deepak Kumar is known for his integrity, fast decision-making, and clean administrative record. He is considered an effective and neutral administrator.
Political and Bureaucratic Implications
According to insiders, the state government prefers continuity, especially in view of ongoing investment, infrastructure, and welfare projects being overseen by Manoj Kumar Singh. However, if a change is necessitated, it may signal a reshuffling of responsibilities and realignment of bureaucratic priorities ahead of the 2027 state assembly elections.
The decision may also reflect Centre-State coordination on key bureaucratic postings, especially given the political significance of Uttar Pradesh.
Countdown Begins: Decision Expected Soon
With less than 10 days remaining in Manoj Singh’s official tenure, the coming days are critical. The central government’s decision will determine whether Singh’s experience continues to guide UP’s administrative machinery or a new leadership takes the reins.
Until then, speculation continues to swirl in bureaucratic and political circles alike.
