Centre approves six-month extension for Haryana chief secretary
The Government of India has granted a second service extension to 1990-batch IAS officer Anurag Rastogi, allowing him to continue as Haryana chief secretary for an additional six months. The extension, effective from July 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026, comes on the recommendation of the Nayab Singh Saini-led BJP government in Haryana. The order was issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) and received by the state's General Administration Department on Tuesday evening.
Rastogi, who was originally due to retire in June 2025, had already received a one-year extension earlier. His extended term was scheduled to end on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. The state government, keen to retain his services, moved a proposal for a further extension, which the Centre approved in relaxation of Rule 16 (1) of the All India Services (Death-cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules, 1958.
Relaxation of rules and state government's push
The DoPT order explicitly states that the extension is granted in relaxation of Rule 16 (1) of AIS (DCRB) Rules, 1958, which normally governs the retirement age of IAS officers. This relaxation is typically used for extensions beyond the age of superannuation. The Haryana government had strongly advocated for Rastogi's continuation, citing his administrative experience and the need for stability.
According to a senior official in the General Administration Department, the state government had sent the recommendation to the Centre well in advance to ensure a seamless transition. The official said, "The chief secretary has been instrumental in implementing key state initiatives, and the government wanted to ensure continuity."
Rastogi's career and impact
Anurag Rastogi, a 1990-batch IAS officer of the Haryana cadre, has held several key positions in the state and central governments. He took over as chief secretary in 2023 and has since overseen major projects in infrastructure, digital governance, and rural development. His extension is seen as a move to maintain administrative momentum ahead of upcoming state elections.
Political analysts note that the decision reflects the trust the state government places in Rastogi's leadership. "His tenure has been marked by efficient handling of bureaucratic processes and coordination with the Centre," said a political commentator based in Chandigarh.
The extension also ensures continuity in the state's administrative machinery, particularly in implementing flagship schemes like the Parivar Pehchan Patra and the 'Meri Fasal Mera Byora' portal, which have been championed by the chief secretary.
