Shri G Balasubramanian IFS (1998), presently High Commissioner of India to the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Maldives.
Dinesh Bhatia IFS appointed Ambassador of India to Brazil
Shri Dinesh Bhatia IFS (1992), presently Ambassador of India to the Republic of Argentina, has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Federative Republic of Brazil.
Ambassador Dinesh Bhatia assumed the role of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Argentina on August 21, 2019, with concurrent accreditation to Uruguay and Paraguay (until February 2022). Previously, he served as Consul General of India in Toronto and Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Liberia. His earlier postings include roles in Indian missions in Madrid, Kathmandu, and Kuwait.
In India, he served with the Department of Atomic Energy in Mumbai, as Private Secretary to the Tourism Minister, and in various divisions of the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi.
A member of the Indian Foreign Service since 1992, Amb. Bhatia trained at LBSNAA Mussoorie and the Foreign Service Institute, New Delhi. He is an alumnus of the National Defence College (NDC) and participated in the 4th Joint Civil-Military Course on National Security.
Amb. Bhatia earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communication from Delhi College of Engineering in 1989 and worked in the private sector before joining civil service. He is a Fellow of The Institution of Engineers and a member of the Institution of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers.
He has authored two books: Devi Purana – A rendition of Srimad Devi Bhagavatam (2023) and Physics for Civil Services Prelims (1994).
Amb. Bhatia is married to Seema Bhatia, an Ayurvedic practitioner, psychologist, and hypnotherapist, and they have a daughter and a son.
IndianBureaucracy.com extends its best wishes to Ambassador Dinesh Bhatia.
Daulat Kumar IRS appointed Addl Commissioner at Customs and Central Forces, Ghazipur
Shri Daulat Kumar IRS (C&IT 2010), presently Additional Commissioner (ADC) and awaiting posting upon return from Deputation, is appointed as, ADC – Customs and Central Forces (CCF), Ghazipur.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Shri Daulat Kumar the very best.
Madhusree IAS appointed Executive Magistrate – Hooghly, West Bengal
Ms Madhusree IAS (West Bengal 2023), presently Assistant Magistrate & Assistant Collector, Hooghly, West Bengal, is appointed as Executive Magistrate – Hooghly, West Bengal.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Ms Madhusree the very best
Shashank Yadav IRS appointed Jt Commissioner at CESTAT, Delhi
Shri Shashank Yadav IRS (C&IT 2010), presently Joint Commissioner (JC), Customs and Central Forces (CCF), Delhi, is appointed as Jt Commissioner – Customs, Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), Delhi.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Shri Shashank Yadav the very best.
Dr Jitendra Singh honours 4 Eminent Scientists with Doctorates at 8th Convocation of AcSIR
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences; and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, emphasized India’s growing leadership on the global stage during the 8th Convocation of the Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR). Highlighting achievements under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Dr. Singh cited advancements in the space sector, biotechnology breakthroughs, and the CSIR Purple Revolution as key examples of India’s progress.
Dr. Singh conferred Doctor of Science degrees on four eminent scientists for their exceptional contributions to science and technology:
- Dr. Raghunath A. Mashelkar, celebrated for his pioneering work in polymer science and engineering.
- Prof. Samir K. Brahmachari, recognized for groundbreaking research in genomics, particularly the role of repetitive DNA in health and disease.
- Prof. Suresh Bhargava, honored for his contributions to chemical sciences and engineering.
- Dr. Thirumalachari Ramasami, lauded for his innovative research in chromium chemistry.
Addressing the graduates, Dr. Singh highlighted AcSIR’s transformative role in fostering interdisciplinary research, strengthening industry-academia collaboration, and contributing to India’s ascent in global science rankings. He called AcSIR’s unique academic approach a cornerstone in realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047”.
He praised AcSIR for ranking in the top 3% of global universities despite being relatively young. The institution’s innovative curriculum integrates diverse fields like engineering, biosciences, and information sciences with emerging areas such as medical research and agriculture. Dr. Singh described AcSIR as a trailblazer in academia, with partnerships across 82 institutions, including CSIR, ICMR, and DST.
A notable highlight was AcSIR’s contribution to India’s startup ecosystem through its Integrated PhD (iPhD) program, which bridges innovation, imagination, and industry. Dr. Singh linked this initiative to India’s rise in the Global Innovation Index, where the country climbed from 81st to 40th position under the Modi government.
Dr. Singh also celebrated the growing prominence of women in science, referencing the historic appointment of CSIR’s first woman Director General. He underscored the significance of NEP 2020 in transforming Indian education, noting AcSIR’s flexible academic framework that enables unconventional combinations like biotechnology and economics.
Reflecting on India’s advancements, Dr. Singh highlighted the rapid growth of space startups from single digits to over 300 and the rise of biotechnology ventures to nearly 9,000, both contributing significantly to the economy. He emphasized that India is no longer a follower but a global leader in technological innovation.
The event also showcased AcSIR’s international collaborations with institutions like the University of Western Australia and AIST Japan, which underscore the global competitiveness of Indian science and education. Dr. Singh affirmed that institutions like AcSIR are integral to India’s mission of fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence, propelling the nation toward its goal of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”
Eminent dignitaries in attendance included Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India; Prof. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR; Prof. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of ICMR; and Prof. P. Balaram, Chancellor of AcSIR, who presided over the ceremony. The convocation symbolized India’s growing scientific prowess and commitment to building a knowledge-driven economy.
Varikuti Ramakrishna IRS appointed Addl Commissioner in DGPM Kolkata, West Bengal
Shri Varikuti Ramakrishna IRS (C&IT 2009), presently Additional Commissioner (ADC) and awaiting posting upon return from Deputation, is appointed ADC – Directorate General of Performance Management (DGPM), Kolkata, West Bengal.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Shri Varikuti Ramakrishna the very best.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan to launch Nayi Chetna 3.0 – Pahal Badlaav Ki today
Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, will inaugurate the third edition of Nayi Chetna – Pahal Badlaav Ki, a national campaign against gender-based violence today, on November 25, 2024, at Rang Bhawan Auditorium, All India Radio, Sansad Marg, New Delhi. The Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi, will also participate in the event, highlighting a unified government effort to combat gender-based violence.
The month-long campaign, organized by the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) under the Ministry of Rural Development, will span all Indian States and Union Territories until December 23, 2024. The initiative is spearheaded by DAY-NRLM’s extensive Self-Help Group (SHG) network and reflects the ethos of Jan Andolan.
Adopting a “whole-of-government” approach, the campaign involves collaboration among nine Ministries and Departments, including the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and the Department of Justice.
Nayi Chetna seeks to raise awareness and inspire grassroots action against gender-based violence. Since its inception, the campaign has mobilized millions to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. The first edition engaged 3.5 crore people nationwide with support from multiple ministries, while the second reached 5.5 crore participants across 31 States and Union Territories through over 9 lakh gender-violence awareness activities.
Key objectives of Nayi Chetna 3.0 include creating awareness about all forms of gender-based violence, empowering communities to demand action, ensuring access to support systems, and strengthening local institutions to respond effectively. Its slogan, “Ek Saath, Ek Awaaz, Hinsa Ke Khilaaf,” underscores the campaign’s call for unified action, blending government and societal efforts for maximum impact.
Conference of Chairpersons of State & UT Haj Committees
Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju inaugurated the Conference of Chairpersons of State and UT Haj Committees, accompanied by Shri George Kurian, Minister of State for Minority Affairs, and other key officials. The event, organized by the Haj Committee of India, aimed to discuss preparations and reforms for the Haj pilgrimage, one of India’s most extensive logistical undertakings overseas.
In his address, Shri Rijiju underscored the historical and diplomatic significance of the Haj pilgrimage in strengthening India-Saudi Arabia relations. He highlighted recent reforms such as the removal of discretionary quotas, the introduction of the Haj Suvidha App, and special provisions for female pilgrims without a Mehram. These steps reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing inclusivity and operational efficiency.
Shri George Kurian elaborated on initiatives planned for Haj 2025, including upgraded accommodations with modern facilities like lifts in Aziziya and areas near Haram, improved transport with the latest model buses, and enhanced medical services. The Khadim-ul-Hujjaj ratio has also been improved, ensuring personalized support and prompt assistance to pilgrims.
A significant highlight of the event was the launch of the Haj Suvidha App 2.0 by Shri Rijiju. Building on its 2024 predecessor, the app introduces advanced features such as a digital selection process, air travel details, Mina navigation maps, and medical advisories, streamlining the pilgrimage experience for Indian pilgrims.
The conference served as a platform for stakeholders to provide feedback and share suggestions, with discussions chaired by Shri George Kurian and Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs. These inputs will play a crucial role in ensuring a seamless and enriching Haj pilgrimage in 2025.
Manohar Lal flags off NTPC’s Green Hydrogen buses at Leh
Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, flagged off NTPC’s green hydrogen bus fleet in Leh, marking a significant step in India’s decarbonization and renewable energy efforts. Accompanied by senior officials from the Ministry of Power, Leh Administration, and NTPC, the minister also traveled 12 km in one of the hydrogen buses, from the hydrogen filling station to Leh airport, showcasing the project’s operational readiness.
The Green Hydrogen Mobility Project in Leh is a groundbreaking initiative featuring a 1.7 MW solar plant, a green hydrogen filling station with an 80 kg/day capacity, and five hydrogen-powered intra-city buses. Operating at the world’s highest altitude (3,650 meters above sea level), the project is engineered to function efficiently in extreme conditions, including low-density air and sub-zero temperatures. Each bus, with a 25 kg hydrogen capacity, can travel up to 300 km on a single fill at 350-bar pressure.
This initiative is expected to mitigate approximately 350 metric tons of carbon emissions annually and contribute 230 metric tons of pure oxygen to the atmosphere—equivalent to planting about 13,000 trees. Leveraging Ladakh’s high solar irradiance and low temperatures, the project demonstrates the region’s ideal conditions for solar power and green hydrogen production, offering a sustainable solution to fossil fuel dependency and enabling energy self-sufficiency.
Shri Manohar Lal commended NTPC for its innovative efforts in integrating hydrogen technology across various domains, including mobility, blending with PNG, and green methanol. The minister emphasized the significance of such projects in achieving India’s energy security and carbon-neutrality goals.
In addition to Leh, NTPC is expanding its green hydrogen initiatives nationwide, including plans for a hydrogen hub in Andhra Pradesh. These efforts are part of NTPC’s larger strategy to scale up renewable energy capacity and establish India as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions.
6 ACS Officers Transferred to Key Roles in Dibrugarh, Karimganj and New Delhi
Indian Bureaucracy, Dispur, November 24, 2024| The Assam government has transferred six officers of the Assam Civil Services (ACS), assigning them prominent roles as Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners in key districts of Dibrugarh and Karimganj. Additionally, one ACS officer has been appointed as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) at Assam Bhawan in New Delhi. The details of the officers’ names and their new postings are provided below.
- Smt Nandita Baruah ACS (DR 2010), presently Additional District Commissioner, Golaghat, is transferred and posted as Additional District Commissioner – Dibrugarh, Assam.
- Smt Rima Trishna Haloi ACS (DR 2021), presently Assistant Commissioner, Kokrajhar, is transferred and posted as Assistant Commissioner – Dibrugarh, Assam.
- Shri Bikram Newar ACS (DR 2021), presently Assistant Commissioner, Jorhat, is transferred and posted as OSD – Assam Bhawan, New Delhi.
- Smt Pooja Borah ACS (DR 2022), presently Assistant Commissioner, Majuli, is transferred and posted as Assistant Commissioner – Dibrugarh, Assam.
- Shri Md Alamgir Laskar ACS (DR 2022), presently Assistant Commissioner, West Karbi Anglong, is transferred and posted as Assistant Commissioner – Karimganj, Assam.
- Smt Puja Daulaguphu ACS (DR 2022), presently Assistant Commissioner, Hailakandi, is transferred and posted as Assistant Commissioner – Karimganj, Assam.
ADG CISF Kundan Krishnan IPS Repatriated to Parent Cadre
Shri Kundan Krishnan IPS (Bihar 1994), currently serving as Additional Director General, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), has been granted premature repatriation to his parent cadre with immediate effect, at the request of the cadre.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Shri Kundan Krishnan the very best.