Ishtiyaq Ahmad
Srinagar, Dec 01 (KNS): In a significant administrative development, seasoned bureaucrat Atal Dulloo has taken charge as the new Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, succeeding Arun Kumar Mehta, who recently retired from the prestigious position.
The appointment of Atal Dulloo, a senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, marks a new chapter in the governance of the region.
On Friday morning, a significant gathering of employees, headed by top-ranking IAS officers, warmly welcomed Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo at the civil secretariat.
According to KNS, the reception was marked by a show of respect and admiration, with a large number of employees taking part in the event. The employees, expressing their support and goodwill, presented bouquets to Chief Secretary Dulloo as a gesture of appreciation for his assuming the pivotal role.
Following this cordial reception, Chief Secretary Dulloo was escorted to his official office chamber.
The ceremonial welcoming and presentation of bouquets underscored the enthusiastic reception from the civil secretariat staff, signaling a collective endorsement of confidence and anticipation for the leadership of Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo in steering the administrative affairs of the region.
Atal Dulloo, with a wealth of experience, has served in various key positions both at the state and central levels.
His appointment as Chief Secretary is seen as a testament to his proven track record and administrative acumen.
Sources said that Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo has expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve in Jammu and Kashmir.
He has acknowledged the challenges and responsibilities that come with the position and underscored his commitment to promoting development, good governance, and ensuring the well-being of the people of the region.
Atal Dulloo's extensive experience includes pivotal roles in sectors such as health, education, and rural development.
His previous assignments have earned him a reputation as a proactive and result-oriented administrator.
Colleagues and subordinates often praise his leadership style, characterized by a focus on transparency, efficiency, and community engagement.
The Chief Secretary holds a crucial position in the administrative hierarchy of Jammu and Kashmir.
Atal Dulloo is expected to play a key role in steering the state towards continued progress and addressing the diverse needs of its population.
The appointment of Atal Dulloo comes at a time when Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing transformative changes in various sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
It is expected that as Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo will collaborate closely with other government officials, policymakers, and stakeholders to formulate and implement strategies that align with the developmental goals of Jammu and Kashmir.
Born on October 24, 1966, he officially began his central deputation on July 1, 2023.
Dulloo, who was serving as the Secretary of the Department of Border Management, was repatriated to his parent Union Territory cadre on November 20 at the request of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
His extensive career journey commenced as a sub-divisional magistrate in Ladakh, and Deputy Commissioner in at least four districts.
During his central deputation, he served as Joint Secretary in the Department of Rural Development for five years.
Notably, Dulloo is the first person from Jammu and Kashmir to occupy the top slot in the UT’s bureaucracy since 2017 when B R Sharma, hailing from Kathua district, served the state from 2015-17.
His contributions during the pandemic, particularly in the expansion of medical infrastructure, underscore his dedication to public service. Despite his seasoned bureaucratic career, Dulloo, an alumnus of IIT Delhi, remains humble and non-confrontational in his approach.
Dulloo had served as the Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary) in the Finance department and the Health and Medical Education Department.
He also served as Chairman and Managing Director of Jammu and Kashmir Infrastructure Development Finance Corporation.
The outgoing Chief Secretary, Dr. Mehta, an IAS officer of the 1988 cadre, assumed office on May 31, 2021, after his predecessor B V R Subrahmanyam was posted as Officer on Special Duty in the Union Commerce Ministry.(KNS)