Lucknow: In a significant administrative development, the Uttar Pradesh government has granted No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to two IAS officers, Pankaj Kumar (IAS:2002:UP) and Aryaka Akhouri (IAS:2013:UP), clearing the way for their central deputation postings. Official posting orders from the central government are expected to follow soon.
Officers Cleared for Central Deputation
The NOCs formally allow both officers to serve in central government roles, marking a key transition in their careers. While Pankaj Kumar currently serves as the Managing Director of Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL), Aryaka Akhouri is the Special Secretary in the Medical, Health, and Family Welfare Department of Uttar Pradesh.
Officials indicated that at least one more IAS officer from the state may receive NOC for central deputation in the coming days, signaling ongoing administrative reshuffling in the Uttar Pradesh cadre.
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About Aryaka Akhouri
- Current Posting: Special Secretary, Medical Health and Family Welfare Department, Uttar Pradesh (since April 2025)
- Batch & Cadre: 2013, Uttar Pradesh
- Birth & Education: Born on December 14, 1985, in Patna, Bihar; B.Sc. in Botany and M.Sc. in Plant Molecular Biology/Biotechnology from the University of Delhi (Miranda House).
Career Highlights:
Started career as Joint Magistrate in Varanasi; later served as Chief Development Officer in Meerut.
District Magistrate, Bhadohi (2021–2022): Implemented strict law-and-order policies, invoking Gangster Act against local criminal elements, including former MLA Vijay Mishra. Introduced professional dress code in government offices.
District Magistrate, Ghazipur (2022–2025): Known for strict enforcement of prohibitory orders, including a viral 2024 incident with MP Afzal Ansari during the funeral of Mukhtar Ansari. Maintained zero tolerance toward administrative lapses, suspending officials for irregularities in welfare schemes.
Administrative Philosophy: Emphasizes discipline, infrastructure development, and strict adherence to laws. Recognized for anti-mafia initiatives and reforming rural administration.
About Pankaj Kumar
- Current Posting: Managing Director, Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL)
- Batch & Cadre: 2002, Uttar Pradesh
- Birth & Education: Born on September 10, 1979, in Banda, Uttar Pradesh; holds a B.A. (Hons) in Philosophy, reportedly from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi.
Career Highlights:
District Administration: Served as District Magistrate and Collector in several key districts including Agra, Aligarh, Sitapur, Muzaffarnagar (2011–2012), and Ballia (2008–2009).
Secretariat Roles: Principal Staff Officer to the Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh.
Other Assignments: Project Director at UP AIDS Control Society; Director of Rajasva Vishist Abhisuchna Nideshalaya (Revenue Intelligence), Lucknow; Director of Department of Tourism, Government of UP.
Professional Recognition: Elected as General Secretary of the UP IAS Association in 2025.
Significance of NOCs
The issuance of NOCs by the state government represents an essential step for IAS officers seeking central deputation. Central deputation allows officers to serve in key ministries, departments, or autonomous organizations under the Government of India, thereby broadening their administrative exposure and contributing to national-level policymaking.
With NOCs in hand, Pankaj Kumar and Aryaka Akhouri are expected to receive central postings shortly, which will mark the next phase of their distinguished administrative careers.
Read also: Centre Extends Tenure of Two IAS Officers as DCO/DCR in Maharashtra, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya
