New Delhi: In a recent administrative development, the Government of India has approved the premature repatriation of IAS officer Saurav Pahari (IAS:2008:WB) to his parent cadre, West Bengal, on personal grounds. Pahari was serving as the Deputy Chairperson of the Tea Board in Kolkata.
Repatriation Approved by DoPT
According to an official order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on Friday, June 6, 2025, the proposal for repatriation was initiated by the Department of Commerce, which functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The repatriation has been cleared by the competent authority, marking an early conclusion to Pahari’s central deputation.
Departure Nearly Two Years Ahead of Schedule
Mr Pahari had joined the Tea Board on March 15, 2022, for a five-year tenure, but is returning 1 year and 9 months ahead of schedule. The exact reasons behind his early exit have not been detailed beyond the mention of “personal grounds” in the official communication.
Background and Service Profile
An IAS officer of the 2008 batch from the West Bengal cadre, Saurav Pahari has held multiple administrative positions in his home state prior to his deputation to the central government. His tenure at the Tea Board coincided with efforts to modernize India’s tea industry, address export challenges, and improve welfare schemes for tea garden workers.
Implications and Next Steps
While no immediate replacement has been announced, sources in the Ministry of Commerce suggest that an appointment may follow soon to ensure continuity in leadership at the Tea Board. Pahari’s return to the West Bengal cadre is expected to be followed by a fresh posting within the state administration.
