Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Mr. Chandrababu Naidu is actively searching for a new Chief Secretary (CS) as the incumbent, Mr. Neerabh Kumar Prasad, a 1987-batch IAS officer, prepares to retire on December 31. Mr. Prasad, whose tenure was extended by six months after his initial retirement date of June 30, will leave behind a vacancy for one of the most crucial administrative roles in the state.
Among the probable candidates, Ms. Y Sri Lakshmi, a 1988-batch IAS officer currently awaiting posting, tops the seniority list. However, her chances may be undermined by corruption charges and her association with former Chief Minister Mr. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, potentially prompting Mr. Naidu to explore alternative options.
Another contender is Mr. G Anantha Ramu, a 1990-batch IAS officer currently serving as Special Chief Secretary (Environment, Forest, Science, and Technology). However, sources suggest he may not be considered for the top position.
The focus then shifts to four Special Chief Secretaries from the 1991 batch: Mr. G Sai Prasad (Water Resources), Mr. Ajay Jain (Housing), Ms. Sumita Dawra (currently on deputation), and Mr. RP Sisodia (Revenue).
Among them, Mr. Sai Prasad emerges as a strong frontrunner. A member of the Kamma community, he has a significant amount of service left, with his retirement due in May 2026. His proven competence during his tenure as Principal Secretary in the Chief Minister’s Office (2014-19) strengthens his candidacy. While appointing someone from his community might invite criticism, sources indicate that Mr. Naidu prioritizes efficiency over caste considerations, which bodes well for Mr. Sai Prasad.
Other names in the fray include Mr. K Vijayanand, a 1992-batch IAS officer and Special Chief Secretary (Energy), and Mr. RP Sisodia, Special Chief Secretary (Revenue). Both are being discussed as potential choices for the coveted post.
As the state awaits Mr. Naidu’s decision, the Secretariat remains abuzz with speculation about who will succeed Mr. Prasad and take on the mantle of Chief Secretary.
