New Delhi: The Government of India has issued fresh appointment and extension orders for senior civil servants across key ministries, as per notifications released by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on Monday.
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the following postings and tenure extensions in a series of decisions that impact the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Ministry of Defence, and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
Sandeep Ahuja Appointed OSD to MoS Jitin Prasada
In a notable appointment, Mr Ahuja (IRS-IT: 2015) has been designated as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Jitin Prasada, Minister of State for Commerce & Industry and Electronics & Information Technology.
- Position Level: Deputy Secretary
- Tenure: Four years, starting from the date of assumption of charge
- Conditions: Co-terminus with the Minister’s tenure or until further orders
The appointment places Ahuja in a pivotal support role to MoS Jitin Prasada at a time when both commerce and digital governance sectors are witnessing accelerated reforms and policy thrust.
Dharmendra Kumar Singh Gets Second Extension as Defence Joint Secretary
Mr Singh (IA&AS: 2000), serving as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Defence since August 2022, has received a six-month extension to his central deputation.
- New Tenure Validity: Up to March 31, 2026, or until further orders
- Previous Extension: March 19, 2025 – September 30, 2025
This marks Singh’s second extension, signaling continuity in senior leadership at the Defence Ministry during a critical time for defence modernization and strategic planning.
Gaurav Garg Appointed DIG in NHRC
Mr Garg (IPS: 2011: PB), currently serving as Passport Officer under the Ministry of External Affairs, has been appointed as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
- Tenure: Till November 15, 2027
- New Role: Key position in India’s apex human rights body
His posting to NHRC comes at a time when the Commission is increasingly engaged in addressing high-profile human rights issues, both domestic and international.
