Pramod Kumar Meherda IAS given extension of additional charge as CEO- NRAA
Dr. Pramod Kumar Meherda IAS (Odisha 1997) presently Additional Secretary- Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has been given extension of additional charge as CEO- National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA) for a further period of six months with effect from 15.01.2026 by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet .
Dr. Pramod Kumar Meherda, IAS, is a distinguished civil servant whose career reflects an exceptional blend of medical expertise and high-level administrative leadership. A qualified medical professional, he completed his M.B.B.S. from SMS Medical College Jaipur under the University of Rajasthan, building a strong foundation in healthcare and public welfare. His transition into the Indian Administrative Service marked the beginning of a long and impactful journey in governance, spanning over two decades across critical sectors.
Currently serving as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, New Delhi, since November 2022, Dr. Meherda is involved in policy formulation and implementation at the national level, particularly in areas concerning agriculture, farmer welfare, and food systems. Prior to this, he served as Managing Director of the National Food Security Mission (NFSM), where he contributed to strengthening agricultural productivity and food security initiatives across the country.
Dr. Meherda has held several key positions in the Government of Odisha, demonstrating remarkable versatility. As Commissioner-cum-Secretary in the Health & Family Welfare Department, he played a crucial role in strengthening public health systems and healthcare delivery. His earlier tenure as Mission Director of the National Rural Health Mission and the AIDS Control Cell further highlights his deep engagement with public health programs, disease control, and rural healthcare outreach.
His contributions to agriculture are equally significant. As Commissioner-cum-Director of Agriculture and Food Production, he worked on enhancing agricultural output and improving farmer-centric policies. In the domain of disaster management and administration, he served as Revenue Divisional Commissioner, handling critical responsibilities related to land revenue and disaster response.
Dr. Meherda also has extensive field experience, having served as District Collector and Magistrate in districts such as Rayagada, Jagatsinghpur, and Mayurbhanj. These assignments required strong leadership in governance, development administration, and crisis management. His early career roles as Sub-Collector and Project Director in rural development laid a solid foundation in grassroots administration.
Additionally, he has contributed to sectors such as transport, higher education, and water resources, reflecting his wide-ranging administrative capabilities. Known for his calm demeanor, methodical approach, and commitment to public service, Dr. Meherda is widely respected in Indian Bureaucracy circles.
His career exemplifies a rare integration of medical knowledge with governance, enabling a people-centric approach to policy and administration.
What is National Rainfed Area Authority
The National Rainfed Area Authority is an advisory body under the Government of India, functioning within the framework of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. It was established to address the challenges of rainfed agriculture, which constitutes a significant portion of India’s cultivated land and is highly dependent on monsoon variability.
The primary role of the NRAA is to formulate strategies, policies, and programs aimed at improving productivity, sustainability, and livelihoods in rainfed regions. It focuses on integrated watershed management, soil and water conservation, crop diversification, and climate-resilient farming practices.
The Authority also coordinates with various central and state agencies to ensure effective implementation of schemes related to rainfed areas. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices and resource optimization, the NRAA plays an important role in enhancing farmer incomes and reducing vulnerability in drought-prone and resource-constrained regions.
Indian Bureaucracy News wishes Dr. Pramod Kumar Meherda the very best.