Srinagar: In a significant administrative decision, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has entrusted senior IAS officer Saurabh Bhagat with the additional charge of the Information Technology (IT) Department and the Public Grievances Department, further expanding his responsibilities within the Union Territory administration.
The decision was approved by the Lieutenant Governor and formalized through an official order issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) on June 3, 2026.
Additional Responsibilities Assigned
According to Government Order No. 1038-JK(GAD) of 2026, Saurabh Bhagat (IAS: AGMUT: 2002), who is currently serving as Commissioner/Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, has been assigned the additional charge of Administrative Secretary, Information Technology Department and Administrative Secretary, Public Grievances Department.
The arrangement will remain in force until further orders.
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The government stated that the decision has been taken in the interest of efficient administration and governance.
Key Role in Governance and Service Delivery
The Information Technology Department plays a crucial role in advancing digital governance initiatives, improving online public services and driving technology-enabled administrative reforms across Jammu and Kashmir.
Similarly, the Public Grievances Department serves as an important interface between citizens and the government by addressing complaints, ensuring accountability and facilitating responsive governance.
With the additional responsibilities, Bhagat will now oversee three important administrative portfolios, adding to his existing role in the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department.
Who Is IAS Officer Saurabh Bhagat?
Mr Bhagat is a 2002-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre and is regarded as one of the experienced administrators serving in Jammu and Kashmir.
Born on April 30, 1977, in Madhya Pradesh, Bhagat possesses a strong academic background. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management, a Master’s degree in Psychology, and has also acquired qualifications in Company Law.
Over the years, he has held several key assignments across departments dealing with governance, development and public administration.
Extensive Administrative Experience
During his career spanning more than two decades, Bhagat has served in a number of significant positions within the Jammu and Kashmir administration.
His notable assignments include:
- Director General, Jammu and Kashmir Institute of Management, Public Administration and Rural Development (JK IMPARD)
- Commissioner/Secretary, Skill Development Department
- Commissioner/Secretary, Science and Technology Department
- Commissioner/Secretary, Labour and Employment Department
- Commissioner/Secretary, Tribal Affairs Department
His experience across diverse sectors has given him extensive exposure to policy implementation, institutional development and public service delivery.
Administrative Reshuffle Aimed at Strengthening Governance
Officials indicated that the assignment of additional charge has been made as an interim administrative arrangement to ensure continuity in the functioning of the Information Technology and Public Grievances Departments.
Given the increasing importance of digital governance and citizen-centric service delivery, the move places an experienced officer at the helm of departments that play a critical role in government outreach and administrative responsiveness.
The order will remain effective until the government issues further instructions regarding regular appointments or redistribution of responsibilities.
With the latest assignment, Saurabh Bhagat further consolidates his role within the Jammu and Kashmir administration, adding two strategically important departments to his existing portfolio.
