Shimla: In a significant bureaucratic reshuffle, the Himachal Pradesh government has appointed Shyam Bhagat Negi, a 1990-batch IPS officer, as the Additional Chief Secretary (Social Justice & Empowerment). The appointment takes immediate effect, as per an official notification released on Wednesday.
Appointment Details and Official Notification
The Department of Personnel issued an official notification on Wednesday confirming the appointment. The Governor of Himachal Pradesh has approved the posting of Negi to this pivotal role, where he will oversee the state’s social justice and empowerment initiatives. His services have been formally placed at the disposal of the Department of Personnel for this assignment.
Simultaneously, the government has cancelled the earlier posting of IPS officer Abhishek Trivedi (1996 batch) as Secretary of the same department. This cancellation was also effective immediately and was issued to maintain administrative efficiency.
Significance of the Role
The Additional Chief Secretary (Social Justice & Empowerment) heads the department responsible for welfare and empowerment programmes across Himachal Pradesh. The role is critical in driving policies aimed at social equity, inclusion, and the upliftment of marginalized communities.
Administrative Compliance
Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta signed the orders, directing all concerned departments and officers to comply with the new postings. Copies of the notification have been sent to the Establishment Officer, Government of India, Ministry of Personnel, and other senior state officials to ensure smooth transition and coordination.
Background of IPS Shyam Bhagat Negi
IPS Negi, who hails from the Kinnaur district, is set to retire on March 31, 2026. He has been on central deputation since May 23, 2022. According to sources, IPS Negi met with Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu in Delhi in July, sparking speculation about his return.
Mr Negi is a veteran officer originally from the Haryana Police cadre, with decades of experience in various administrative and policing roles. His appointment is expected to bring seasoned leadership and focus to the Social Justice & Empowerment Department at a crucial time for the state’s social policy implementation.
Abhishek Trivedi’s Posting Cancelled
Alongside Negi’s appointment, the government has also cancelled the earlier posting order of Abhishek Trivedi, a 1996-batch IPS officer, who was appointed as Secretary (Social Justice & Empowerment) via an order dated September 30, 2025.
The new appointment effectively supersedes the previous posting, consolidating the department’s leadership under a senior officer.
