New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has appointed 2007-batch IAS officer Anindita Mitra (IAS:2007:PB) as the new Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Punjab.
She succeeds Sibin C (IAS:2005:OB), who has moved to central deputation as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Selection Process
The Punjab government had forwarded a panel of three IAS officers – Anindita Mitra, Ramvir, and Sonali Giri – for the post of CEO. After careful consideration, the ECI selected Anindita Mitra. Following this, the Punjab government issued the formal order for her appointment. Mitra will relinquish her current responsibilities under the Punjab government before assuming charge as CEO.
About Anindita Mitra
IAS Mitra, born on November 7, 1978, hails from Chhattisgarh and holds a B.E. in Computer Science from Guru Ghasidas University, Bilaspur.
She is proficient in Bengali and English and is married to S. Karuna Raju (IAS:1998:PB), who previously served as the Chief Electoral Officer of Punjab.
Career Highlights
- Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab (2026–Present): Appointed by ECI.
- Administrative Secretary, Punjab (2024–2025): Oversaw portfolios including Higher Education & Languages, School Education, and Co-operation.
- Municipal Commissioner, Chandigarh (2021–2024): First regular IAS officer from Punjab cadre in this role; led Chandigarh to 11th rank in Swachh Survekshan 2023 and won the “Safaimitra Surakshit Shehar” national award.
- CEO, Chandigarh Smart City Limited: Managed urban development and smart city initiatives alongside municipal commissioner role.
- Previous District Postings: Deputy Commissioner in Nawanshahr and Hoshiarpur; Additional Deputy Commissioner in Patiala.
Notable Achievements
UPSC 2007: Secured 8th rank nationally and was the woman topper.
Civic Transformation: Implemented 100% waste segregation and bioremediation at Dadumajra landfill in Chandigarh, showcasing her focus on sustainable urban development.
Significance of Appointment
Ms Mitra’s appointment comes at a critical time, reinforcing administrative efficiency in Punjab’s electoral management. Her experience in civic administration, smart city projects, and district governance positions her to oversee elections with transparency and innovation.
