The Odisha Chief Secretary, Manoj Ahuja has received a one-year extension in his tenure, a development that had been widely anticipated. An IAS officer of 1990 batch and Odisha cadre Mr. Ahuja will now serve as Chief Secretary until December 31, 2025, with his original term set to end on December 31, 2024.
The Odisha government had requested the central government’s approval for the extension, which has now been officially granted.
Ahuja took charge as Chief Secretary on July 1, 2024, shortly after the BJP government, led by Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, assumed office on June 12. His return to Odisha was facilitated at the state government’s request. Prior to this, Ahuja served as Union Secretary for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, bringing his extensive administrative experience to the state.