Dehradun: In a key administrative development, the Uttarakhand government has appointed Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Parag Madhukar Dhakate (Batch 2002, Uttarakhand cadre) as the Special Secretary to the Chief Minister. The announcement was made on Friday and comes as part of a strategic move to strengthen the Chief Minister’s Secretariat with experienced officers.
Dhakata, who currently serves as Special Secretary in the Minorities Welfare Department and Chairman of the Minorities Welfare & Waqf Development Board, will be taking on the new assignment as additional charge, continuing with all his present responsibilities.
Administrative Experience & Current Portfolio
A 2002-batch IFS officer, Dhakata has held several important roles in Uttarakhand’s administrative and forest departments. Known for his balanced approach to governance and minority welfare, he brings with him experience in both environmental policy and social welfare initiatives.
His appointment as Special Secretary to the Chief Minister is expected to enhance coordination and execution across departments, particularly in areas where development and social equity intersect.
Strengthening CM Secretariat
This move is seen as part of a broader administrative reshuffle aimed at streamlining governance and delivery efficiency within the Chief Minister’s core team. With Dhakata’s dual expertise in welfare administration and environmental governance, the government hopes to bolster cross-sectoral synergy at the Secretariat level.
