Will Anurag Rastogi Continue as Haryana Chief Secretary for Another Year?
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Synopsis
Anurag Rastogi has received a one-year extension as Haryana Chief Secretary, defying the seniority principle. This decision comes after the Haryana government sought approval from the Central government, which was granted. What does this mean for the state's administrative future?
Key Takeaways
- Anurag Rastogi receives a one-year extension as Chief Secretary of Haryana.
- The extension deviates from traditional seniority principles.
- The Haryana government initiated the request, which was approved by the Central government.
- Rastogi's previous roles included Financial Commissioner (Revenue).
- This decision reflects the government’s confidence in his leadership abilities.
Chandigarh, June 20 (NationPress) The Central government has granted Anurag Rastogi, the Chief Secretary of Haryana, a one-year extension. This 1990-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer was set to retire on June 30, but his appointment to the Chief Secretary position did not adhere to the seniority principle.
According to official sources, the Haryana state government submitted a request for his extension, which has now received approval from the Central government.
Among the potential candidates for the post were Rastogi's contemporaries such as Sudhir Rajpal, Sumita Misra, Anand Mohan Sharan, and Raja Shekhar Vundru, along with the 1991 batch officers including Vineet Garg, Anil Malik, G. Anupama, A.K. Singh, and Abhilaksh Likhi.
As per the gradation list, Sudhir Rajpal is the most senior officer from the 1990 batch, followed by Sumita Misra, Anurag Rastogi, Anand Mohan Sharan, and Raja Sekhar Vundru.
Rastogi was appointed to this top position in February after the selection of Vivek Joshi, a 1989-batch IAS officer, as Election Commissioner by the Central government.
A communication dated June 19 from the Union Ministry of Personnel confirms that the Central government has sanctioned Rastogi's extension from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. In accordance with Rule 16 of the All India Services (Death-cum-Retirement Benefit) Rules 1958, a chief secretary's service may be extended for up to six months with the state government's recommendation, but the Central government has exercised its discretion to grant Rastogi a full 12-month extension.
Prior to his elevation, Rastogi held the interim charge of Chief Secretary for several days after the retirement of T.V.S.N. Prasad and before Joshi assumed the role in November 2024. He also served as Financial Commissioner (Revenue) and continues to oversee both the Finance and Planning Departments.
Point of View
I view Anurag Rastogi's extension as a strategic move by the Central government, emphasizing continuity and stability in Haryana's administration. This decision reflects the government's confidence in Rastogi's capabilities, even as it raises questions about adherence to seniority norms. Such decisions are pivotal in maintaining effective governance.
NationPress
20/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the extension of Anurag Rastogi?
The Haryana government requested the extension from the Central government, which was approved to ensure continuity in leadership.
How long is Anurag Rastogi's extension?
Anurag Rastogi has received a one-year extension, continuing his service until June 30, 2026.
What are the implications of not following seniority in appointments?
Not adhering to seniority can lead to discontent among senior officers, potentially impacting morale within the administrative services.
What role did Anurag Rastogi hold before becoming Chief Secretary?
Before his elevation, he served as Financial Commissioner (Revenue) and also held the position of Additional Chief Secretary (Finance and Planning).
