NEW DELHI: Manoj Kumar Singh, an IAS officer with close ties to Yogi Adityanath, assumed office as Uttar Pradesh’s new chief secretary on July 30. He succeeded DS Mishra, whose tenure ended this year.
A government spokesperson announced, “When Yogi Adityanath became the Chief Minister in 2017, he selected bureaucrats known for their experience, efficiency, integrity, tenacity, and strong work ethic.” Singh was highlighted as a key member of ‘Team Yogi’, and appointed Chief Secretary after a rigorous selection process.
Described as a highly effective bureaucrat from the 1988 batch, Singh currently holds dual roles as Agriculture Production Commissioner and Infrastructure and Industrial Development Commissioner in Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, he serves as Additional Chief Secretary for Panchayati Raj and Food Processing, and chairs UPDA, UPSHA, and PICUP, crucial for state development.
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During the pandemic, Singh played a pivotal role in controlling COVID-19 in rural areas and contributed significantly to executing the ‘BC Sakhi’ scheme launched by the Yogi government. As Additional Chief Secretary for Panchayati Raj, he successfully implemented CM Yogi’s grassroots initiatives, leading to all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh being declared open-defecation-free with the highest number of toilets constructed in the state.
Speaking later to reporters, Singh expressed his commitment, saying, “This is an opportunity for me and our team to work for the betterment of Uttar Pradesh’s 24 crore people under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s guidance.”
Regarding the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Singh emphasized efforts to ensure a more organized and successful ‘MahaKumbh 2025’. He played a crucial role in transforming the 2019 Kumbh Mela into a globally renowned event and, as the nodal officer, oversaw its preparations. His experience as chief secretary will be crucial in planning and executing ‘Mahakumbh 2025’ effectively.