Lucknow/Delhi: In a significant administrative reshuffle that has caught the attention of political and bureaucratic circles alike, senior IAS officer of Uttar Pradesh cadre, Mr Kaushal Raj Sharma has been called to Delhi on deputation under the AGMUT cadre. The 2006-batch officer, who had only recently taken charge as Secretary to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is expected to be entrusted with a major responsibility at the Centre. His deputation is for a period of three years.
Mr Sharma, known for his no-nonsense work ethic and administrative acumen, served as both District Magistrate and Divisional Commissioner in Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s parliamentary constituency. His tenure in Varanasi from 2019 until late April 2025 spanned nearly six years – an unusually long and politically significant posting during which he oversaw the execution of high-profile projects, including the prestigious Kashi Vishwanath Corridor.
His sudden transfer to Lucknow just 14 days ago, where he was appointed as the CM’s Secretary, had already sparked curiosity. The swift follow-up order for central deputation has now fueled speculation about an even more prominent role awaiting him in Delhi. Sources indicate that his posting could be aligned with key national development programs or oversight roles in flagship government initiatives.
Close Ties to PMO
Mr Sharma’s professional journey has often intersected with national priorities. From being handpicked to lead Varanasi shortly after the BJP came to power in Uttar Pradesh, to being one of the few bureaucrats whose transfer orders were reversed under public interest – his proximity to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has been evident.
Three years ago, his transfer to Prayagraj as Divisional Commissioner was abruptly revoked at midnight, allowing him to continue serving as DM of Varanasi. Official sources had at the time cited “public interest” as the reason, underscoring his perceived indispensability in Varanasi’s transformation.
Architect of Varanasi’s Transformation
During his tenure in Varanasi, Mr Sharma oversaw the implementation of multiple infrastructure and urban development initiatives. The construction of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, road widening projects, and effective COVID-19 management earned him accolades across political lines. His ability to convince over 300 families to vacate land for the Corridor without triggering controversy is cited as a masterclass in administrative negotiation.
In 2020, Fame India Magazine named him among the 50 best IAS officers in the country, and in 2022, he was honored with the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration – personally presented by PM Modi.
Career Highlights and Background
Born in Bhiwani district of Haryana, Mr Sharma holds an M. Tech in Textile Engineering and an MA in Public Policy. Prior to Varanasi, he served as District Magistrate in Prayagraj and Kanpur – both considered challenging and strategically important postings.
Known for his calm demeanor and results-driven approach, Sharma has carved a niche as a trusted troubleshooter in high-stakes environments. His recent transfer to the CM’s Office in Lucknow was widely seen as a move to align the implementation of central schemes with the state’s development roadmap ahead of the 2027 assembly elections.
Political and Administrative Reactions
The pace and sequence of Mr Sharma’s recent transfers – from Varanasi to Lucknow and now to Delhi – have generated buzz within both political and bureaucratic circles. While some see it as an elevation, others view it as strategic positioning by the Centre ahead of national developments. Either way, Sharma’s new assignment in Delhi is being closely watched as an indicator of shifting priorities and rising stars within India’s administrative framework.
