New Delhi: In two significant administrative moves, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has approved the premature repatriation of senior Indian Forest Service officer Satya Prakash Vashishth from the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and appointed Gaurav Katiyar (IES:2013) as Deputy Secretary in NITI Aayog under the Central Staffing Scheme.
Satya Prakash Vashishth Repatriated to Parent Cadre
Senior IFoS officer Satya Prakash Vashishth (1994:AM), who has been serving as Executive Director (Administration) in NMCG since February 2022, has been prematurely repatriated to his parent cadre on personal grounds.
The Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation recommended the repatriation, which was approved by the DoPT on Friday (January 9, 2026).
Vashishth’s original appointment order, dated 23 February 2022, had stipulated his tenure until superannuation on 30 June 2026. The early repatriation, however, has curtailed his tenure following his personal request.
During his term, Vashishth played a pivotal role in administrative and operational management of NMCG, contributing to the mission’s efforts in river conservation and clean Ganga initiatives.
Gaurav Katiyar Appointed Deputy Secretary in NITI Aayog
In another key appointment, Gaurav Katiyar (IES:2013) has been selected as Deputy Secretary in NITI Aayog, New Delhi for a tenure of four years.
The Department of Economic Affairs recommended Katiyar for central deputation, and the DoPT approved his appointment under the Central Staffing Scheme (CSS). The tenure will be effective from the date he assumes charge or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
This appointment reflects the government’s continued efforts to place dynamic and experienced officers in key policy and planning institutions to drive national development initiatives.
Significance of the Changes
The repatriation of Satya Prakash Vashishth is a rare administrative move, highlighting flexibility in postings for officers on personal grounds.
Gaurav Katiyar’s appointment brings fresh administrative talent into NITI Aayog, strengthening its capacity for policy formulation, planning, and coordination across sectors.
