Preeti Meena IAS appointed as Joint Secretary- Department of Defence

Ms. Preeti Meena, IAS is a distinguished officer of the Indian Administrative Service, noted for her unique blend of medical expertise and administrative experience. With a professional background in medicine and a career spanning key sectors such as defence, education, health, and district administration, she represents a dynamic example of multidisciplinary governance in India.

Academically, Ms. Meena holds an M.B.B.S. degree from institutions affiliated with University of Rajasthan, including RNT Medical College. Her medical education provided her with a strong foundation in healthcare systems, public health challenges, and clinical understanding. This background has significantly enriched her administrative approach, particularly in health-related assignments.

In her current role, Ms. Preeti Meena is serving as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Defence since April 2026. At this senior level, she is involved in policy formulation, coordination, and administration related to defence matters. The role requires close interaction with various wings of the armed forces, defence production units, and other government agencies. Her responsibilities include handling strategic issues, ensuring efficient administrative processes, and contributing to policy decisions that impact national security.

Prior to her current assignment, she served in the Department of School Education and Literacy under the Ministry of Education. As Director from January 2024 to April 2026 and earlier as Deputy Secretary from February 2023 to January 2024, she played a significant role in policy implementation and program management in the education sector. Her work involved improving school education systems, monitoring flagship schemes, and coordinating with state governments to enhance learning outcomes.

Ms. Meena has also made substantial contributions in the health sector during her tenure in the Government of Telangana. She served as Director in the Drug Control Administration under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare framework at the state level, where she was responsible for regulating pharmaceuticals, ensuring drug safety, and enforcing compliance with health standards. Additionally, she held the position of Director in the AIDS Prevention and Control Society in Hyderabad, where she worked on public health initiatives aimed at controlling and preventing HIV/AIDS.

Her field-level administrative experience is equally noteworthy. As District Magistrate, she was responsible for overall district governance, including law and order, implementation of government schemes, and disaster management. She also served as Director in the Handloom, Textile, and Sericulture Department, contributing to industrial and rural development by promoting traditional sectors and supporting livelihoods.

Earlier in her career, Ms. Meena held several key positions such as Joint Collector in Nalgonda, Additional Commissioner in the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation, and Sub Collector in Kadapa (Andhra Pradesh). These roles provided her with hands-on experience in urban governance, land revenue administration, and sub-divisional management. Her tenure in these positions demonstrated her ability to handle complex administrative responsibilities and deliver effective public service.

Like all IAS officers, she underwent foundational training as an IAS Probationer, which prepared her for the multifaceted challenges of governance. Over the years, she has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, adaptability, and a commitment to public welfare.

In conclusion, Ms. Preeti Meena’s career reflects a rare integration of medical knowledge and administrative expertise. From grassroots governance to high-level policymaking, she has contributed across diverse sectors including health, education, and defence. Her journey exemplifies dedication, versatility, and effective public service, making her a significant contributor to India’s administrative framework.