Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh government has ordered the immediate transfer and posting of two Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers in the public interest. The decision was taken following recommendations of the Civil Services Board and has received approval from the Governor, according to an official notification issued by the Department of Personnel.
The administrative reshuffle comes alongside a major update on the upcoming Census 2027, which will be conducted in a fully digital format across the state in two phases starting mid-2026.
IAS Officer R Selvam Appointed Financial Commissioner (Appeals)
As part of the latest postings, IAS officer R Selvam, who was previously awaiting assignment, has been appointed as Financial Commissioner (Appeals) in Shimla.
He replaces IAS officer Kamlesh Kumar Pant, who has been relieved of the additional responsibility. The appointment is part of the state’s ongoing administrative restructuring aimed at improving governance efficiency.
Naveen Tanwar Assigned Youth Services and Sports Department
In another key posting, IAS officer Naveen Tanwar, also awaiting posting, has been appointed as Special Secretary (Youth Services and Sports) to the Government of Himachal Pradesh in Shimla.
The notification confirming both appointments was issued by Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta and circulated to all concerned departments for immediate compliance.
Himachal Pradesh Announces Digital Census 2027 Schedule
Separately, the state government has released the official schedule for Census 2027, which will be conducted entirely in digital mode. The exercise will be carried out in two major phases, beginning in mid-2026, as per the General Administration Department.
Officials stated that the digital approach aims to improve accuracy, transparency, and efficiency in data collection across the state.
Phase I: House Listing and Housing Census from June 2026
The first phase of the census, known as the House Listing and Housing Census, will be conducted from June 16 to July 15, 2026.
During this phase, detailed data will be collected regarding housing conditions, amenities, and household assets. In addition, residents will be given a 15-day window for self-enumeration, allowing them to submit their details online voluntarily before field verification begins.
Phase II: Population Enumeration Scheduled for 2027
The second phase, Population Enumeration, is scheduled for February 2027. However, in snow-bound and remote regions, enumeration will be conducted earlier in September 2026 due to harsh weather conditions and accessibility challenges.
The government has emphasized special arrangements to ensure complete coverage even in difficult terrains.
Strict Action Against False Information or Obstruction
The state government has also issued a strict warning regarding compliance with census procedures. Any individual found obstructing census officials or providing false information may face penalties under the Census Act, 1948.
The punishment includes a fine of up to ₹1,000 and imprisonment of up to three years, highlighting the seriousness of accurate data collection for national planning and policy-making.
With key IAS transfers and the rollout of a fully digital Census 2027, Himachal Pradesh is moving toward strengthening administrative efficiency and modernizing data collection systems. The initiatives reflect the state’s focus on transparency, governance reform, and improved public service delivery.
