Shri Chandra Sekhar Kumar IAS (Odisha 1992) presently Secretary- Ministry of Minority Affairs has been given the additional charge as Secretary- Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs from 23.08.2025 to 31.08.2025 during the period of absence on leave of Shri Nikunja Bihari Dhal IAS (Odisha 1993).
Who is IAS Chandra Sekhar Kumar | Shri Chandra Sekhar Kumar IAS, a senior Indian Administrative Service officer, is presently serving as the Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs and has been given the additional charge of Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs. Recognized for his exemplary leadership and strategic vision, Shri Kumar brings decades of experience in both state and central government administration, earning widespread respect for his integrity, efficiency, and commitment to public service.
A scholar of exceptional merit, Shri Kumar holds a Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, graduating with first-class honors. He furthered his academic pursuits with a Master in Public Administration in International Development from Harvard University, again securing top honors, and earned a Ph.D. in Economics from Cornell University, New York. His strong academic foundation has significantly contributed to his analytical and policy-making capabilities in various governmental roles.
Shri Kumar’s career in the IAS spans over three decades, reflecting a rare combination of administrative expertise and visionary leadership. He began his service at the grassroots level as Sub-Collector and Charge Officer in Subarnapur and Puri, gaining first-hand experience in land revenue management and sub-divisional administration. He then served as District Collector and District Magistrate in Kandhamal, Balangir, and Malkangiri districts, demonstrating his ability to manage complex administrative challenges in diverse socio-economic settings.
In the Odisha state administration, Shri Kumar held critical positions including Director in the Panchayati Raj Department, Social Justice & Empowerment Department, and Agricultural Marketing. He also served as Managing Director of the Orissa State Financial Corporation and the Industrial Development Corporation of Odisha, showcasing his proficiency in finance, industry, and cooperative sectors. His tenure as Commissioner and Secretary of the Technical Education and Higher Education Departments highlighted his focus on improving educational infrastructure and accessibility. Additionally, his leadership roles in the Revenue & Disaster Management and Transport & Communication Departments reflected his capability in overseeing large-scale governance and infrastructure projects.
At the central government level, Shri Kumar has contributed significantly as Joint Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat and the Ministry of Higher Education. He rose to the positions of Additional Secretary and Special Secretary in the Ministry of Panchayati Raj before assuming his current role as Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs. His additional charge as Secretary of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs underscores the government’s confidence in his administrative acumen and ability to handle complex, multi-departmental portfolios.
Throughout his career, Shri Chandra Sekhar Kumar IAS has been recognized for his foresight, analytical rigor, and dedication to policy implementation. He has managed diverse portfolios across finance, agriculture, education, transport, and minority welfare, consistently prioritizing inclusive growth and citizen-centric governance. His leadership combines strategic thinking with empathy, earning him admiration from colleagues and subordinates alike.
Shri Kumar’s extensive experience, spanning both central and state administrations, positions him as one of the most respected senior IAS officers in India. His commitment to public service, intellectual acumen, and ethical approach continue to leave a lasting impact on Indian governance, making him a notable figure in the country’s bureaucracy.
INdianBureaucracy.com wishes Shri Chandra Sekhar Kumar the very best.