Ms. Archana Das Pattanaik, presently with the State Civil Service of Odisha, has been promoted to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) of the Odisha Cadre.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Ms. Archana Das Pattanaik the very best.
Dipika Sanyamath IAS appointed as Secretary – Mass Education Extension and Library Services, West Bengal
Smt Dipika Sanyamath IAS (West Bengal 2008), presently Secretary, Agriculture Department, is appointed as Secretary – Mass Education Extension and Library Services Department, West Bengal.
A highly regarded officer known for her meticulous administrative skills and deep understanding of public welfare systems, Smt. Sanyamath brings with her a rich and diverse experience across key departments of the West Bengal government.
Her tenure as Commissioner at the Directorate of Textiles (April 2021 – December 2023) was marked by major strides in policy reform and promotion of Bengal’s traditional textile sector. She played a pivotal role in strengthening artisan networks and expanding handloom initiatives, ensuring economic upliftment of rural weavers and craftsmen.
Earlier, from September 2018 to April 2021, Smt. Sanyamath served as Secretary in the Agriculture Department, where she led several high-impact programs aimed at increasing farmer productivity, improving irrigation efficiency, and enhancing market linkages. Her leadership during this phase was instrumental in facilitating smoother procurement systems and agricultural resilience, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Simultaneously, she also held the post of Commissioner in the Law and Justice Department (August 2018 – April 2021), where she contributed to streamlining tribunal operations and reinforcing legal access mechanisms at the grassroots level.
A dedicated civil servant with a passion for inclusive governance and rural development, Smt. Dipika Sanyamath has consistently been recognized for her people-centric approach and administrative acumen. Her new role in the Mass Education Extension and Library Services Department is expected to bring fresh momentum to literacy programs, community education outreach, and digital library expansion across the state.
Colleagues and peers have lauded her appointment as a move that will strengthen the department’s mission of bridging educational gaps and empowering citizens through knowledge access.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Smt Dipika Sanyamath the very best.
Anjana Panda promoted to Indian Administrative Service of the Odisha Cadre
Ms. Anjana Panda, presently with the State Civil Service of Odisha, has been promoted to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) of the Odisha Cadre.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Ms. Anjana Panda the very best.
Debal Roy IFS appointed as Principal Secretary – Forest Department, West Bengal
Shri Debal Roy IFS (1991) presently Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and Head of Forest Force, is appointed as Principal Secretary – Forest Department, with additional charge of Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and Head of Forest Force, West Bengal.
Shri Debal Ray, a distinguished officer of the Indian Forest Service with over three decades of exemplary service, has emerged as a visionary leader and one of the most respected figures in India’s forestry and wildlife conservation landscape. His career has been defined by a deep-rooted commitment to environmental sustainability, scientific forest management, and biodiversity protection.
A former Chief Wildlife Warden of West Bengal, Shri Ray has played an instrumental role in strengthening wildlife preservation policies and has been at the forefront of several landmark initiatives aimed at safeguarding the state’s rich ecological heritage. His strategic approach, balanced with on-ground empathy and scientific understanding, has brought about significant positive changes in conservation practices.
Academically accomplished, Shri Ray is an alumnus of the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy and has further enhanced his expertise with specialized studies in Natural Resource Management at Cornell University and Climate Change at Erasmus University Rotterdam. These international academic experiences have not only broadened his global outlook but also enriched India’s forest governance with modern, research-driven practices.
Beyond administration, Shri Ray is a keen scholar and author, with numerous well-regarded publications in the fields of biodiversity, climate change, and environmental policy. His research contributions continue to inform both policy and academic circles, earning him recognition among experts and peers alike.
In his current capacity, Shri Debal Ray brings together wisdom, innovation, and unwavering dedication to steer West Bengal’s forest department towards a greener, more resilient future. His leadership is widely admired for its blend of vision, humility, and a deep passion for nature—qualities that make him a true guardian of India’s natural legacy.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Shri Debal Roy the very best.
Smaraki Mahapatra IAS given additional charge of CMD – West Bengal Mineral Development & Trading Corporation
Smt Smaraki Mahapatra IAS (West Bengal 2002), presently Secretary, Food Processing Industries and Horticulture Department, given additional charge of CMD – West Bengal Mineral Development & Trading Corporation.
Smt. Smaraki Mahapatra is a dedicated and accomplished civil servant with over two decades of distinguished service across various sectors of governance. She is presently serving as Secretary of the Food Processing Industries and Horticulture Department, Government of West Bengal. Recently, she has also been entrusted with the additional charge of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the West Bengal Mineral Development & Trading Corporation—a reflection of the government’s trust in her leadership and administrative capabilities.
An officer known for her analytical acumen and commitment to development, Smt. Mahapatra began her career after completing her training in 2004. She started her journey as Executive Magistrate in Hooghly and soon rose to the rank of Additional District Magistrate, holding key responsibilities in Bardhaman, Asansol, and other important administrative divisions. Between 2007 and 2009, she also served as Chief Executive Officer of the Durgapur Development Authority, contributing to planned urban development in the region.
Her leadership skills led her to serve as District Magistrate in Cooch Behar and Jalpaiguri from 2009 to 2013, where she earned recognition for her proactive approach to governance and welfare programs. Transitioning to the Finance Department, she played significant roles including Excise Commissioner, Commercial Tax Commissioner, and Director of Small Savings, overseeing vital aspects of state revenue and fiscal management from 2013 to 2021.
Her versatility was further demonstrated during her tenure as Secretary in departments such as Finance, Land Records & Rehabilitation, and Land Reforms. More recently, she has served in departments related to Education, Science & Technology, and Biotechnology, consistently delivering results with clarity of vision and a people-centric approach.
Known for her calm demeanor, intellectual rigor, and unwavering dedication to public service, Smt. Mahapatra has built a career marked by integrity and excellence. Her current responsibilities in the fields of food processing, horticulture, and mineral development signal her growing role in shaping sectors critical to the state’s economy and sustainable development. With her wide-ranging experience across urban development, district administration, finance, and technology, she continues to be a vital asset in West Bengal’s administrative landscape.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Smt Smaraki Mahapatra the very best.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha IAS given additional charge as Principal Secretary – Disaster Management and Civil Defence, West Bengal
Shri Rajesh Kumar Sinha IAS (West Bengal 1997) presently Principal Secretary- Housing Department, with additional charge of Principal Secretary- Youth Services and Sports Department and CEO- KMDA, is relieved of the additional charge of CEO- KMDA, and in lieu given additional charge of Principal Secretary – Disaster Management and Civil Defence Department.
Shri Rajesh Kumar Sinha is a seasoned civil servant known for his distinguished career and commitment to public service. He is currently serving as the Principal Secretary, Housing Department, Government of West Bengal, and holds additional charge as Principal Secretary, Youth Services & Sports Department and Disaster Management & Civil Defence Department. Shri Sinha is an alumnus of the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, where he earned both his B.Tech and M.Tech degrees in Civil Engineering. His strong academic foundation has greatly influenced his administrative acumen, particularly in areas like infrastructure, urban development, and disaster resilience.
Beginning his career in 1997, Shri Sinha held foundational roles as Assistant Magistrate and Sub-Divisional Officer in districts such as Midnapore, Jhargram, Siliguri, and East Midnapore. His early postings helped him build a deep understanding of grassroots administration. Between 2001 and 2006, he served as Additional District Magistrate in Malda and Nadia, and soon after, he was appointed District Magistrate in Cooch Behar, Bardhaman, Malda, and Paschim Medinipur. His leadership during this period earned him wide appreciation for responsive governance and development-focused initiatives.
From 2010 onwards, Shri Sinha undertook a series of challenging assignments, including Commissioner of Panchayat & Rural Development and Director of Micro, Small Scale Enterprises and Textiles. He later served as Commissioner (Agricultural IT) in the Finance Department, further showcasing his versatility. Between 2012 and 2014, he was Commissioner of the School Education Department in Kolkata, where he led important reforms in the education sector. His tenure in the Agriculture & Cooperation Department as Secretary and Director (2014–2019) focused on enhancing productivity and supporting farmers through innovative schemes and reforms.
In subsequent years, he was entrusted with senior leadership roles, including Principal Secretary in the Science & Technology Department and later in the Housing Department. During his tenure, he brought forward policies that emphasized sustainable urban development. He also served as CEO of the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA), where he contributed significantly to planning and executing key urban infrastructure projects. Most recently, he has been given additional responsibility for the Disaster Management & Civil Defence Department, acknowledging his vast experience in handling complex administrative challenges.
Over the course of his career, Shri Rajesh Kumar Sinha has demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and integrity. His work across diverse sectors—ranging from land administration and rural development to education, agriculture, urban infrastructure, and youth affairs—has made a significant impact on governance in West Bengal. A dynamic officer with a deep sense of public duty, Shri Sinha continues to serve with distinction, inspiring a new generation of civil servants.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Shri Rajesh Kumar Sinha the very best.
2025 | IndianBureaucracy.com Greetings to its Esteemed Readers on Ram Navami
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Ram Navami encourages equality and universal brotherhood !!
Once again Indian Bureaucracy wishes you a Happy Ram Navami !!
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has greeted the people on the occasion of Ram Navami and wished happiness, peace and prosperity for all.
India Marks 62nd Maritime Day- A Tribute to Seafarers
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) celebrated the 62nd National Maritime Day with great fervour across India, paying tribute to the country’s rich maritime legacy and recognising the vital contributions of Indian seafarers to economic growth and international trade. The celebrations highlighted the nation’s enduring commitment to maritime excellence and global connectivity.
This year’s theme, “Prosperous Seas – Developed India and Youth for Blue Economy and Green Growth,” emphasised the importance of sustainable maritime development and the significant role of the youth in shaping an eco-friendly, innovation-led future for the sector. Organised by the National Maritime Day Celebration Committee (NMDCC), Delhi chapter, under the aegis of the Directorate General of Shipping, the central event took place at Vinay Marg Sports Ground in New Delhi.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his address, he acknowledged the tireless efforts of India’s maritime community and seafarers, stating that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India’s ports and coastal shipping are being rapidly modernised. He reiterated the government’s dedication to making India a global maritime leader, with oceans serving as conduits for trade, opportunity, and national growth.
As part of a week-long celebration, events across the country included flag pinning ceremonies for the Hon’ble Prime Minister and Governors of coastal states, blood donation drives, wreath-laying tributes to fallen seafarers, and national seminars focusing on maritime development and the future of the Blue Economy.
Highlighting India’s maritime transformation, Shri Sonowal noted the sector’s emergence as a force multiplier for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), supported by robust port infrastructure and a future-ready shipping ecosystem. During the event, he engaged warmly with cadets, particularly female cadets, encouraging them to become leaders in India’s maritime journey and lauding their passion for serving the nation through a modern and dynamic maritime sector.
To build camaraderie and promote maritime spirit, various sports events such as football, cricket, volleyball, javelin, relay, and sprint races were held, drawing active participation from maritime professionals and trainees. These activities reflected the teamwork, resilience, and unity that define life at sea.
Outstanding individuals and organisations in the maritime sector were recognised for their dedication and achievements through awards and commendations. The ceremony was attended by senior officials including the Secretary (Shipping), Joint Secretary (Ports), and other key personnel from the Ministry, with over 510 trainees and faculty members participating in the celebration.
The 62nd National Maritime Day not only honoured India’s maritime pioneers but also reaffirmed the country’s focus on a greener, more inclusive, and innovation-driven maritime future. The occasion commemorates the historic voyage of the S.S. Loyalty, the first Indian-owned steamship that sailed from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919—a landmark moment that marked India’s entry into global shipping and laid the foundation for the nation’s maritime legacy.
Government Sanctions ₹5,000 Crore for Women’s Hostels in 28 States
The Government is strongly committed to ensuring safe, secure, and affordable hostel facilities for working women and those aspiring to join the workforce. These hostels play a crucial role in increasing women’s participation in the labor force and are a key step toward achieving the goal of “Women-led Development.”
Under the Sakhi Niwas Scheme—also known as the Working Women Hostel (WWH) Scheme—which operates within the broader Mission Shakti framework, the Government provides support for hostel accommodation based on local needs. This is a centrally sponsored, demand-driven scheme, where States and Union Territories assess requirements and submit proposals, which are reviewed and approved by the Programme Approval Board (PAB).
The scheme is designed to provide safe, accessible accommodation for working women and those pursuing higher education or training. It includes provisions for daycare facilities for their children, and supports hostels in urban, semi-urban, and rural areas where employment opportunities for women exist. Notably, the current scheme provides funding for rented accommodations only, as the greenfield construction component has been discontinued.
However, under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme by the Department of Expenditure (DoE), Ministry of Finance, the Centre has allocated ₹5,000 crore for the construction of new working women hostels (greenfield projects) across 28 States during FY 2024–25. States submitted proposals after assessing their specific needs, and based on these, the DoE has already released the first installment of funds for the hostel construction.
It’s important to note that the Sakhi Niwas Scheme does not include provisions for skill development or marketing support for hostel beneficiaries.
Additionally, the Empowered Committee under the Nirbhaya Fund has approved further greenfield construction of hostels—7 in Uttarakhand, 3 in Uttar Pradesh, 7 in Nagaland, 1 in Punjab, 3 in Tamil Nadu, and 1 at the University of Delhi.
Startup Mahakumbh 2025 | Energy PSUs Lead with Cutting-Edge Innovations
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) actively participated in Startup Mahakumbh 2025, held from April 3–5 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Oil and Gas Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) showcased their innovation-driven efforts by supporting 32 startups at the event. These initiatives are part of a robust framework built by the PSUs to incubate, mentor, and fund innovative ventures, accelerating India’s energy transformation.
ONGC’s startup fund has demonstrated remarkable growth, witnessing a 450% increase in valuation over the last five years. Its flagship startup, WellRx—the first oilfield startup under the Startup India Policy—has expanded its energy solutions to over 120 countries. IndianOil, through its IndS_UP initiative, has funded 42 startups, leading to the creation of 86 intellectual properties and 635 jobs. Oil India supports deeptech ventures such as Caliche Private Limited, which specializes in biochemical sand influx control, and Carbonation India Private Limited, which focuses on sustainable waste management for the oil and gas sector.
Senior officials from PSU oil and gas companies enriched the event through active participation and thought leadership. Fourteen senior executives shared insights on research monetization, electric vehicle (EV) innovation, manufacturing integration, and mobility solutions. ONGC’s Chairman joined the opening plenary session, while other sessions delved into strategies for investment in electrification, EV policy incentives, and the acceleration of last-mile EV mobility. A notable session, “From Lab to Market – Unlocking Research Monetization,” brought together leaders from BPCL, ONGC, Oil India, and HPCL to discuss how research can be commercialized effectively.
Startup Mahakumbh 2025, themed ‘Startup India @ 2047: Unfolding the Bharat Story’, has grown significantly since its first edition. This year, it featured over 3,000 startups from 11 sectors, more than 1,000 investors, and numerous incubators—creating a thriving environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.
MoPNG has been a consistent promoter of innovation. During India Energy Week 2025, held from February 11–14 at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, the Ministry launched initiatives such as ‘Avinya’25 – Energy Startup Challenge’ to recognize advancements in CO₂ capture, ESG solutions, and renewable energy. The ‘Vasudha – Oil and Gas Startup Challenge’ acknowledged international startups driving AI-based innovations in the upstream oil and gas domain.
Other oil and gas PSUs are also pushing the innovation frontier. Engineers India Limited (EIL), through its EngSUI initiative, has supported 31 startups with ₹35 crore, backing developments in industrial enzymes, compostable polymers, and carbon capture. HPCL’s ‘HP Udgam’ program has provided ₹35 crore in seed funding to 29 startups, including Maraal Aerospace, known for its solar-powered long-range drones. BPCL’s ‘Ankur’ program has supported 30 startups with ₹28 crore, helping them raise $132 million and attain a cumulative valuation of $300 million. GAIL’s ‘Pankh’ initiative promotes ventures focused on pipeline repair, biogas generation, and sustainable materials.
Through these sustained efforts, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and its PSUs are playing a pivotal role in building a technology-led, sustainable energy ecosystem. Their support continues to empower Indian startups, enabling them to drive innovation and lead the country’s energy transition.
Cabinet approval for four multitracking projects across Indian Railways
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved four major railway projects under the Ministry of Railways, with a total investment of approximately ₹18,658 crore. These projects span 15 districts across three states—Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh—and will expand the Indian Railways network by around 1,247 kilometers.
The approved projects include the Sambalpur–Jarapda 3rd and 4th line, Jharsuguda–Sason 3rd and 4th line, Kharsia–Naya Raipur–Parmalakasa 5th and 6th line, and Gondia–Balharshah doubling. These multi-tracking and doubling initiatives aim to improve operational efficiency, ease congestion on some of the busiest railway sections, and enhance service reliability. The infrastructure development aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of a self-reliant India (“Atmanirbhar Bharat”) by fostering regional development and generating employment and self-employment opportunities.
These projects are part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which emphasizes integrated and multi-modal planning. As a result, the rail expansion will provide seamless connectivity for the movement of people, goods, and services, particularly to underdeveloped and high-potential areas. The projects will also facilitate the construction of 19 new railway stations and improve connectivity for approximately 3,350 villages and a population of over 47.25 lakh. Notably, two Aspirational Districts—Gadchiroli in Maharashtra and Rajnandgaon in Chhattisgarh—will benefit from enhanced connectivity.
The Kharsia–Naya Raipur–Parmalakasa corridor is expected to open up direct access to regions like Baloda Bazar, enabling the establishment of new industrial units such as cement plants. These rail routes are vital for transporting key commodities like agricultural produce, fertilizers, coal, iron ore, steel, cement, and limestone. With an anticipated increase in freight capacity of 88.77 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), these projects will significantly boost logistics efficiency.
Additionally, the environmental benefits are substantial. The projects are expected to reduce fuel consumption by 95 crore liters and lower carbon dioxide emissions by 477 crore kilograms—equivalent to planting 19 crore trees. Overall, these rail expansions underscore India’s commitment to sustainable development, economic growth, and climate action while reducing logistics costs and enhancing national connectivity.
Ministry of Minority Affairs talks about Waqf -Myths and Facts
Myth 1: Will Waqf properties be revoked?
- Fact: No property that is registered under Waqf Act, 1995, prior to commencement of Waqf Act, 1995, as waqf will be revoked.
- Explanation:
– Once a property is declared waqf, it is meant to stay that way permanently.
– The bill only clarifies rules for better management and transparency.
– It allows the District Collector to review properties that might be misclassified as waqf, especially if they are actually government property.
– Legitimate waqf properties remain protected.
Myth 2: Will there be no survey of Waqf properties?
- Fact: There will be a survey.
- Explanation:
– The Bill replaces the old role of the Survey Commissioner with the District Collector.
– The District Collector will conduct surveys using existing revenue procedures.
– This change aims to improve the accuracy of records without stopping the survey process.
Myth 3: Will non-Muslims become the majority on Waqf Boards?
- Fact: No, the boards will include non-Muslims, but they will not form a majority.
- Explanation:
– The Bill requires inclusion of 2 non-Muslims excluding ex-officio members as members in the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards, allowing for a maximum of 4 non-Muslim members in the Council and maximum of 3 in the Waqf Board that at least two members on the Central Waqf Council and state boards be non-Muslim.
– The majority of members will still be from the Muslim community.
– This change is meant to add expertise and promote transparency without undermining community representation.
Myth 4: Will Muslims’ personal land be acquired under the new amendment?
- Fact: No personal land will be acquired.
- Explanation:
– The Bill applies only to properties that are declared waqf.
– It does not affect private or personal property that has not been donated as waqf.
– Only assets voluntarily and legally dedicated as waqf are covered by the new rules.
Myth 5: Will the government use this bill to take over waqf properties?
- Fact: The Bill empowers an officer above the rank of District Collector the District Collector to review and verify if a government property has been wrongly classified as waqf—especially if it might actually be government property—but it does not authorize the seizure of legitimately declared waqf properties.
Myth 6: Does the bill allow non-Muslims to control or manage the wealth of the Muslim community?
- Fact: While the amendment mandates that two members on the Central Waqf Council and State Boards shall be non-Muslim excluding ex-officio members allowing for a maximum of 4 non-Muslim members in the Council and maximum of 3 in the Waqf Board.
These members are added to bring in additional expertise and oversight. The majority of members remain from the Muslim community, thereby preserving community control over religious affairs.
Myth 7: Will the traditional status of historic waqf sites (such as mosques, dargahs, and graveyards) be affected?
- Fact: The Bill does not interfere with the religious or historical character of waqf properties. Its aim is to enhance administrative transparency and curb fraudulent claims—not to alter the sacred nature of these sites.
Myth 8: Does the removal of the ‘waqf by user’ provision mean that long- established traditions will be lost?
- Fact: The removal of this provision is designed to prevent unauthorized or erroneous claims over property. However, protection has been given to such Waqf by user properties (such as mosques, dargahs, and graveyards) which will remain as waqf properties except that the properties, wholly or in part, is in dispute or is a government property. It streamlines the registration process by ensuring that only properties formally declared as waqf are recognized—thereby reducing disputes while still respecting traditional waqf declarations.
“Waqf by user” refers to a situation where a property is treated as a waqf simply because it has been used for religious or charitable purposes over a long period—even if there hasn’t been a formal, legal declaration by the owner.
Myth 9: Is the bill intended to interfere with the community’s right to manage its own religious affairs?
Fact: The primary goal of the bill is to improve record-keeping, reduce mismanagement, and ensure accountability. It does not take away the Muslim community’s right to administer its own religious endowments; rather, it introduces a framework to ensure these properties are managed transparently and efficiently.