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Assam Extends Chief Secretary Ravi Kota's Tenure by Six Months

The Assam government has extended the tenure of Chief Secretary Ravi Kota by six months beyond his scheduled retirement. The extension, effective from May 1 to October 31, 2026, is due to administrative exigencies. Officials state the decision is crucial with Assembly elections approaching, as continuity in the top post ensures stability and smooth coordination with the Election Commission. The extension is granted in public interest to maintain seamless governance during the politically sensitive period.

Key Points: Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota's Tenure Extended

  • Tenure extended from May 1 to Oct 31, 2026
  • Decision due to administrative exigencies & upcoming elections
  • Kota is a 1993-batch IAS officer
  • Aims to ensure smooth election coordination
  • Extension granted in public interest
2 min read

Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota's tenure extended by six months

Assam govt extends Chief Secretary Ravi Kota's tenure by 6 months, effective May-Oct 2026, to ensure administrative stability during elections.

"continuity in the state's top bureaucratic post is considered important for maintaining administrative stability - Officials"

Guwahati, Feb 4

The Assam government has extended the tenure of Chief Secretary Ravi Kota by six months, officials said on Wednesday. The extension will be effective from May 1 to October 31, 2026.

Ravi Kota, a 1993-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, was due to retire on April 30 upon attaining the age of superannuation. However, the state government decided to continue his services in view of administrative exigencies, the notification stated.

The order confirming the extension has come into immediate effect.

Kota assumed charge as the Chief Secretary of Assam on April 1, 2024, and has been overseeing key administrative, policy and governance-related matters of the state.

During his tenure, he has played a central role in coordinating between various departments, monitoring implementation of flagship government schemes and ensuring timely execution of development projects.

Officials said the decision to extend his tenure comes at a critical juncture, as Assam is preparing for the upcoming Assembly elections, expected to be held in March-April this year.

Elections are due in all 126 Assembly constituencies, and continuity in the state's top bureaucratic post is considered important for maintaining administrative stability and smooth coordination during the election process.

Senior officials pointed out that the Chief Secretary plays a crucial role in liaising with the Election Commission, coordinating with district administrations and ensuring that the Model Code of Conduct is implemented effectively once elections are announced.

Retaining an experienced officer at the helm is expected to help ensure seamless governance and uninterrupted administrative functioning during the politically sensitive period.

The Personnel Department order stated that the extension has been granted in public interest, in accordance with applicable service rules.

Such extensions are not uncommon during periods of major administrative or political activity, particularly when continuity is viewed as essential for effective governance.

With the extension, Ravi Kota will continue to guide the state administration through the election period and beyond, overseeing day-to-day governance and policy execution until October 31, 2026, officials said.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While stability is important, I hope this doesn't become a trend of bypassing retirement rules. There are many capable officers waiting for their chance. The system should promote new talent as well.
R
Rohit P
Elections are a massive logistical exercise. Having a Chief Secretary who knows the ins and outs of Assam's administration is a smart move. Hope this leads to a free and fair poll without any hiccups.
S
Sarah B
As someone who follows governance, this seems like a practical step. The transition during an election can be chaotic. An officer familiar with all departments can ensure development projects don't get stalled.
V
Vikram M
Let's hope this extension is truly for "public interest" and not just political convenience. The Chief Secretary's role is to serve the people, not any particular party. The proof will be in the impartial conduct during elections.
K
Kavya N
Good move! In a vast and diverse state like Assam, experience matters. Mr. Kota has been overseeing key schemes. A new officer would take months just to understand the ground realities. Stability zaroori hai.

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