New Delhi: The Government of India has issued fresh orders revising the list of Central Nodal Officers (CNOs) responsible for monitoring Aspirational Agricultural Districts under the Prime Minister Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY). Simultaneously, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has appointed senior IPS officer Sundarraj P (IPS:2003:CG) as Inspector General (IG) in the National Investigation Agency (NIA), recognizing his extensive contribution to anti-Maoist operations in Chhattisgarh.
The two decisions reflect the Centre’s continued focus on strengthening both developmental governance and internal security through strategic administrative appointments.
Centre Revises Central Nodal Officers Under PMDDKY
The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), through an Office Memorandum issued on June 17, 2026, announced the appointment and replacement of Central Nodal Officers tasked with reviewing and monitoring Aspirational Agricultural Districts under PMDDKY.
The latest order has been issued in continuation of earlier notifications released in October 2025 and subsequent amendments.
Role of Central Nodal Officers
Central Nodal Officers serve as key coordinators between the Union Government, state administrations, and district authorities for effective implementation of PMDDKY.
Their responsibilities include:
- Monitoring developmental progress in Aspirational Agricultural Districts.
- Reviewing implementation of agricultural and rural development initiatives.
- Coordinating with district administrations and line departments.
- Identifying bottlenecks and suggesting corrective measures.
- Ensuring outcome-based monitoring of scheme implementation.
The revised list of officers has been notified through an annexure attached to the government order.
PMDDKY Focuses on Agricultural Transformation
The Prime Minister Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana has been designed to accelerate agricultural growth and rural prosperity in identified districts through targeted interventions and coordinated governance.
The programme seeks to improve:
- Agricultural productivity
- Farmer income
- Rural infrastructure
- Market linkages
- Sustainable agricultural practices
For operational coordination and clarifications related to PMDDKY, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has designated Chinmay P. Gotmare, Joint Secretary (Marketing & PMDDKY) as the nodal contact officer.
Sundarraj P Appointed Inspector General in National Investigation Agency
In a significant appointment in the internal security domain, the Ministry of Home Affairs has approved the appointment of senior IPS officer Sundarraj Pattilingam (Sundarraj P) as Inspector General in the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
The appointment has been made against an existing vacancy under the standard terms and conditions governing Central deputation. The MHA has also requested the Chhattisgarh Government to relieve the officer immediately so that he can assume charge of his new assignment in New Delhi.
Bastar’s Longest-Serving IPS Officer
Sundarraj P is widely regarded as one of India’s most experienced anti-Maoist police officers.
A 2003-batch IPS officer of the Chhattisgarh cadre, he has spent nearly 12 years in the Bastar region, making him the longest-serving IPS officer in the area.
His tenure includes:
- Nearly 12 years in Bastar.
- Seven continuous years as Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range.
- Leadership across seven districts of south Chhattisgarh.
- Coordination of major anti-Naxal operations.
- Close collaboration with Central Armed Police Forces.
During this period, Bastar remained one of India’s most Maoist-affected regions.
Architect of the ‘Bastar Model’
Sundarraj is credited with pioneering what became popularly known as the “Bastar Model”—a strategy combining aggressive counter-insurgency operations with community engagement and development-oriented policing.
Among his notable initiatives was:
Poona Margham (New Path)
The programme aimed to encourage Maoist cadres to surrender and reintegrate into mainstream society through rehabilitation, counseling, and livelihood support.
Security experts have often cited the initiative as an important complement to traditional counter-insurgency operations.
Key Role in Anti-Maoist Operations
Over the years, Sundarraj supervised numerous security operations against Maoist groups and became the principal face of law enforcement efforts in Bastar.
He frequently briefed the media following major encounters, security successes, and operational developments.
Officials credit his leadership with helping security agencies substantially weaken Maoist influence in several parts of south Chhattisgarh. His tenure coincided with some of the most decisive phases of anti-Maoist operations undertaken by state and central forces.
Educational Background
Originally from Tamil Nadu, Sundarraj possesses a strong academic background.
Academic Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science (Agriculture)
- Tamil Nadu Agricultural University
IPS Career
- Joined the Indian Police Service on September 5, 2003.
- Allocated to Chhattisgarh cadre.
- Served in various operational and leadership roles before becoming IGP Bastar.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his distinguished career, Sundarraj has received several prestigious honours.
Notable Decorations
- Police Medal for Gallantry (2008)
- President’s Police Medal for Meritorious Service (2022)
These awards recognised his contributions to internal security and public service.
Special Recommendation by MHA
According to reports, the Ministry of Home Affairs made a special recommendation for Sundarraj’s deputation to the NIA in recognition of his leadership and operational experience in combating Maoist insurgency.
His appointment is expected to strengthen the agency’s expertise in handling cases related to left-wing extremism, terrorism, and national security.
With extensive field experience, deep operational knowledge, and a proven track record in one of India’s most challenging internal security environments, Sundarraj’s move to the NIA marks another important chapter in his distinguished policing career.
