Bhubaneswar: Ananya Awasthi, a 2022-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, assumed charge as aide-de-camp (ADC) to Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Sunday, making history as the first woman officer to hold the post in the state.
Appointment and Background
Awasthi, who previously served as Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in Cuttack, was appointed ADC to the governor as part of an IPS reshuffle on May 23. She succeeded 2021-batch IPS officer Kuldeep Meena, who has been posted as Superintendent of Police (SP) of Boudh district.
Significance of the Appointment
"As the first woman to serve as ADC to the governor of Odisha, her appointment marks a significant milestone for women in public service," a statement from Lok Bhavan said. The announcement underscores the state's commitment to gender equality in administrative roles.
Formal Induction Ceremony
A formal induction ceremony was held at Lok Bhavan on Sunday, where Governor Kambhampati welcomed Awasthi to her new role. Senior officials of the governor's secretariat attended the occasion, highlighting the importance of the position.
Role of ADCs
The governor is assisted by two ADCs — one from the Indian Navy and the other from the Odisha police. "While Awasthi will serve as the police ADC, Lieutenant Harshit Deo of the Indian Navy will continue as the naval ADC to the governor," the Lok Bhavan noted. The ADC plays a key role in supporting the governor during official engagements, ceremonial functions, and protocol-related duties.
About the Author
Debabrata Mohapatra is an Assistant Editor at The Times of India, Bhubaneswar. He has been writing for TOI from Puri since 2006 before joining the Bhubaneswar bureau in August 2010. He covers crime, law and order, and Congress.
