In a significant administrative development, the Government of India has assigned additional charge of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to senior IAS officer Debashree Mukherjee. The decision was approved by the Competent Authority through an official order issued by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet on May 27, 2026.
Currently serving as Secretary in the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Mukherjee will hold the additional responsibility from May 29 to June 7, 2026.
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Temporary Charge During Srinivas Katikithala’s Leave
The move comes during the leave period of Shri Srinivas Katikithala, IAS (Gujarat cadre, 1989 batch), who presently serves as Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
According to the order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Debashree Mukherjee, an AGMUT cadre IAS officer of the 1991 batch, will manage the affairs of the ministry until Katikithala resumes office.
Experienced Bureaucrat Takes On Dual Responsibility
Known for her extensive administrative experience, Debashree Mukherjee has handled several key assignments in the Government of India. Her temporary appointment to oversee one of the country’s most crucial ministries highlights the Centre’s confidence in her administrative capabilities.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs plays a vital role in shaping India’s urban infrastructure, housing policies, smart city projects, and urban development initiatives.
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