DoPT Approves Director-level Re-designation of IAS Vishal Gupta as PS to Culture and Tourism Minister

New Delhi: IAS officer Vishal Gupta (IAS:2012:GJ) has been re-designated as Private Secretary at the Director level to the Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in the Ministry of Culture. The re-designation marks a significant elevation in his role within the central government framework.

DoPT Issues Official Order

The re-designation was approved by the competent authority and formally notified through an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. As per the order, the post of Private Secretary (Deputy Secretary level), which was earlier held by Vishal Gupta, has now been upgraded and re-designated as Private Secretary (Director level) to the same Minister.

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Tenure and Validity of the Re-designated Post

According to the DoPT order, the re-designated Director-level post will take effect from the date Vishal Gupta assumes charge in the upgraded capacity. The tenure of the post will remain valid up to June 5, 2030.

However, the order also specifies that the appointment is subject to certain conditions. The tenure will be applicable on a co-terminus basis with the Minister, or until Vishal Gupta ceases to function as Private Secretary to the Minister, or until further orders are issued, whichever comes earlier.

Officer Profile and Cadre Details

Mr Gupta is a 2012-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Gujarat cadre. Over the years, he has held various administrative responsibilities before moving to the central government.

Central Deputation Since June 2025

Vishal Gupta began his central deputation on June 6, 2025. Since then, he has been serving as Private Secretary to Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The latest re-designation reflects the government’s confidence in his administrative capabilities and performance at the Centre.

Significance of the Re-designation

The elevation from Deputy Secretary level to Director level is considered an important administrative upgrade, indicating enhanced responsibilities and a higher level of involvement in policy coordination, ministerial support, and decision-making processes within the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

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