Ranchi: Jharkhand Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari, a 1988-batch IAS officer, is set to officially retire on September 30, 2025, marking the end of her distinguished administrative career. However, her last working day was September 26 due to upcoming government holidays.
Despite her official tenure continuing until the end of the month, a notification announcing her successor is expected on September 30, with sources indicating that a new Acting Chief Secretary could be appointed to ensure administrative continuity.
Who Will Be the Next Chief Secretary?
The top contenders for the role are:
- Avinash Kumar (1993 batch IAS)
- Ajay Kumar Singh (1995 batch, promoted IAS)
The two senior bureaucrats are reportedly under serious consideration for one of the most influential administrative positions in the state.
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Avinash Kumar: The Front-Runner
Avinash Kumar is currently serving as the Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, a position reflecting high trust within the state leadership. He also holds the portfolios of:
- ACS, Energy Department
- Chief Resident Commissioner, Jharkhand Bhawan, New Delhi
With experience in energy policy, CMO coordination, and inter-state affairs, Kumar is widely considered the leading candidate for the Chief Secretary role.
Ajay Kumar Singh: A Strong Administrator
Ajay Kumar Singh, a 1995-batch promoted IAS officer, brings rich experience from key portfolios such as:
- Finance
- Health, Medical Education, and Family Welfare
- Rural Works and Cabinet Secretariat
His administrative background in core departments makes him a strong contender, especially as Jharkhand faces complex financial and social challenges.
Other Senior Officers: Not in the Race
While other officers at the ACS level include:
- Shailesh Kumar Singh – currently on central deputation
- Dr. Nitin Madan Kulkarni – posted at Raj Bhavan
Sources suggest neither is likely to be considered for the Chief Secretary role due to logistical and political reasons.
Legacy of Alka Tiwari
Alka Tiwari became Jharkhand’s third woman Chief Secretary on November 1, 2024, and played a key role in preparing the administration for the 2024 Jharkhand Assembly elections.
Educational Background and Achievements
- Gold Medalist from Meerut University in Psychology
- M.Sc. from the University of Manchester, UK – also a Gold Medalist
- Law degree from Ranchi University
Completed executive programs from Harvard University, Duke University, and others
Alka Tiwari has held significant positions and is recognized for her academic brilliance and administrative leadership.
Vacuum in the Secretariat
Due to overlapping public holidays from September 27 to October 2, administrative functioning is expected to be limited. The government is likely to finalize and announce the new Chief Secretary on September 30, to prevent any leadership vacuum in the Secretariat.
Challenges Awaiting the Next Chief Secretary
The new Chief Secretary will step into a role that demands:
- Policy continuity
- Administrative stability
- Addressing developmental gaps and financial constraints
- Preparing for upcoming legislative and governance challenges
The decision will be pivotal in shaping Jharkhand’s governance landscape for the coming years.
