In a significant transition at the top of Odisha's bureaucracy, outgoing Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, on his final day in office, delivered a powerful message to departmental secretaries. He emphasised the critical need to continue prioritising governance that puts people first and to further strengthen the ease of doing business in the state.
Ahuja's Final Meeting and Key Achievements
Chairing a meeting of senior officials, Ahuka steered discussions that extensively covered Odisha's strategic advantages as a coastal state, the advancement of world-class infrastructure projects, and the state's ongoing investment commitments. When questioned about his personal achievements during his tenure, Ahuja humbly stated that governance is a collective endeavour. He credited the state government for key milestones, including attracting massive industrial investments, the seamless rollout of the Subhadra cash incentive scheme for women, and the provision of an Rs 800-per-quintal bonus for paddy farmers under the Samruddha Krushak Yojana.
A Legacy of Administrative Expertise
Manoj Ahuja, a 1990-batch IAS officer of the Odisha cadre, took charge as the state's chief secretary on July 1, 2024, succeeding Pradeep Kumar Jena. His extensive administrative experience, spanning both state and central assignments, proved pivotal in driving the programmes and reforms of the Mohan Charan Majhi government. His diverse portfolio included serving as secretary in the Union Agriculture Ministry, Chairman of the CBSE, and holding key positions in Odisha's steel and mines, sports and youth services, and food & civil supplies departments.
Anu Garg Makes History as First Woman Chief Secretary
Ahuja was succeeded by Anu Garg, who assumed charge as the Chief Secretary of Odisha. With this appointment, Garg has created history by becoming the first woman to hold the state's top bureaucratic post. Outlining her vision, Garg stated she would work with renewed focus to realise Odisha's aspiration of becoming a 'Developed Odisha' by its centenary year in 2036, a goal embedded in the government's Vision 2036 and Vision 2047 frameworks.
Acknowledging the significant challenges on the road ahead, Garg expressed confidence that the goals are achievable through collective collaboration and contribution. She described her new role as both a "huge responsibility and a profound opportunity" to serve the people of Odisha.
"When one joins the IAS, one carries many dreams for the development of one's state. We will work towards ensuring that the vision for Odisha is implemented effectively, along with strengthening the state's contribution to the nation," Garg said after taking over the reins from Manoj Ahuja.
