New Delhi: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved two significant bureaucratic orders, extending the central deputation of senior IAS officer P Bala Kiran and assigning additional charge to senior IAS officer Niraj Verma. These appointments were issued through the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).
P Bala Kiran’s Deputation as DoPT Joint Secretary Extended
Senior IAS officer P Bala Kiran (IAS:2008:KL), currently serving as Joint Secretary in the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), has had his central deputation extended by two years beyond February 28, 2026, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
Tenure and Career
- Current Position: Joint Secretary, DoPT since October 2024
- Original Tenure End: February 28, 2026
- Previous Experience: Director of Census Operations (DCO) and Director of Citizen Registration (DCR), Andhra Pradesh (from February 28, 2021)
- Total Central Deputation Duration: Will now extend to seven years including the extended period
The extension ensures continuity in key administrative responsibilities within DoPT, which oversees personnel management, training, and policy implementation for civil services across India.
Niraj Verma Gets Additional Charge of Parliamentary Affairs Secretary
Senior IAS officer Niraj Verma (IAS:1994:AM), who currently serves as Secretary, Department of Justice in the Ministry of Law and Justice, has been given the additional charge of Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.
Appointment Details
- Order Issued: January 3, 2026, by DoPT
- Tenure of Additional Charge: January 3 to January 29, 2026
- Reason: Temporary charge during the leave of the regular incumbent, Nikunja Bihari Dhal (IAS:1993:OR)
Verma’s temporary assignment ensures the smooth functioning of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, which handles legislative business, parliamentary coordination, and policy advisory functions for the government.
Key Takeaways
- P Bala Kiran (IAS:2008:KL): Joint Secretary, DoPT; deputation extended by two years beyond February 2026
- Niraj Verma (IAS:1994:AM): Secretary, Department of Justice; additional charge of Parliamentary Affairs Secretary till January 29, 2026
- Both appointments were approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC)
- Issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT)
These moves reflect the government’s emphasis on continuity in senior bureaucratic positions and efficient administration of central departments.
