Lucknow: In a significant administrative reshuffle, the Yogi government has made changes in key positions within the Uttar Pradesh bureaucracy. Two IAS officers have had their responsibilities revised, impacting the leadership of the state’s Transport Department.
Archana Agarwal Appointed Principal Secretary, Transport
1990 batch IAS officer Archana Agrawal, who was on the waiting list, has been appointed as the Additional Chief Secretary, Transport, and Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh State Government Transport Corporation (UPSRTC). Ms Agrawal had previously gone on central deputation on February 16, 2016. After returning from the central government on October 16, 2025, she joined the Appointments Department.
Ms Agrawal has prior experience in the transport sector, having served as the Transport Commissioner of Uttar Pradesh in 2009-10. With her new appointment, the command of the Transport Department will now be in the hands of two women IAS officers, alongside IAS Kinjal Singh, who was appointed Transport Commissioner last month.
Amit Gupta Relieved of Transport Responsibilities
2000 batch IAS officer Amit Kumar Gupta, who was earlier given the additional responsibilities of Principal Secretary, UP Transport Department, and Chairman of UPSRTC, has been relieved of these duties. He will continue to hold the position of Principal Secretary, Stamps and Registration.
This change comes just six months after Amit Gupta was assigned the additional responsibilities in the Transport Department. The Yogi government’s latest decision reflects a shift in administrative priorities and the strengthening of experienced leadership in the transport sector.
Impact on UP Transport Department
The leadership change in the Transport Department signifies an increased role for women officers in the state administration. With Archana Agarwal taking charge as Principal Secretary and Kinjal Singh as Transport Commissioner, the department is now under a dual-women leadership, aimed at improving governance and operational efficiency.
Background
The Uttar Pradesh Transport Department oversees the state’s public transportation systems, including the UPSRTC. Leadership roles like Principal Secretary and Transport Commissioner are critical for policy implementation, strategic planning, and day-to-day administration. Archana Agarwal’s return to the Transport Department is expected to bring experienced oversight and continuity in the state’s transportation initiatives.
