Mumbai: Senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Rajesh Aggarwal, a 1989-batch officer of the Maharashtra cadre, has returned to his home state after more than a decade of service at the Centre. The Government of Maharashtra has appointed him as the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) for Innovative Administration and Good Governance in the General Administration Department (GAD).
Long Tenure at the Centre
Aggarwal has had an illustrious stint at the Central government, most recently serving as Secretary in the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Known for his result-driven administrative style, he also worked on several national-level initiatives promoting digital governance, inclusion, and citizen-centric service delivery.
Known for his result-driven administrative style, he also worked on several national-level initiatives promoting digital governance, inclusion, and citizen-centric service delivery.
Read also: Who Is Rajesh Aggarwal? Technocrat IAS Officer Poised to Become Maharashtra’s Next Chief Secretary
Key Roles and Reforms in Maharashtra
Before his Central deputation, Aggarwal held several key positions in Maharashtra, including Principal Secretary of the Information Technology Department. During his tenure, he led transformative e-governance and administrative reform projects, strengthening the state’s digital ecosystem and citizen service infrastructure.
His leadership was pivotal in implementing technology-driven solutions aimed at improving transparency and efficiency in public administration.
His leadership was pivotal in implementing technology-driven solutions aimed at improving transparency and efficiency in public administration.
Possible Successor to Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar
Aggarwal ’s return comes at a strategic time as Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar’s extended tenure nears its end this month.
According to senior bureaucratic sources, Rajesh Aggarwal is being seen as a strong contender for the Chief Secretary’s post. However, officials suggest that Kumar may continue for a brief period, given the ongoing local body election code of conduct, which often delays major administrative changes.
Focus on Innovation and Good Governance
In his new role, Aggarwal is expected to spearhead initiatives aimed at promoting innovative governance models, administrative efficiency, and transparency. His dual experience at the state and central levels positions him to enhance Maharashtra’s bureaucratic effectiveness, drive policy innovation, and strengthen citizen trust in governance mechanisms.
His appointment underscores the state government’s emphasis on leadership continuity, reform-oriented governance, and modernization of administrative processes.
A Technocrat with a Vision for Digital Governance
Born on November 12, 1966, Rajesh Aggarwal holds a B.Tech. in Computer Science from IIT Delhi (1987) and began his civil services journey after clearing the UPSC Civil Services Examination at the age of 22. His background as a technocrat has deeply influenced his administrative style, especially in the fields of digital governance, finance, and e-governance innovation.
During his tenure as Secretary, IT Department, Maharashtra (2011–2015), he spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives like DigiLocker, Jeevan Pramaan, and e-governance platforms that transformed public service delivery. His contribution to cyber law adjudication — with over 70 rulings under the IT Act — has been instrumental in shaping India’s digital jurisprudence.
