Bhubaneswar, 02 January (H.S.): Senior IAS officer Deoranjan Kumar Singh on Friday formally assumed charge as Odisha’s Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary, a day after the state government announced a major reshuffle at the senior bureaucratic level on the occasion of the New Year.

Singh took over the responsibility following official orders issued by the General Administration and Public Grievance Department.

Prior to his appointment, Singh was serving as Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue and Disaster Management Department, and was also holding multiple additional charges, including Special Relief Commissioner, Member of the Board of Revenue, and Managing Director of the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA).

Speaking after assuming office, Singh said his focus would be on coordinated planning and effective implementation across departments. “Development planning requires coordination and timely execution. I will work closely with all departments to ensure continuity and efficiency in governance,” he said.

Highlighting the state’s long-term vision, Singh said Odisha is on a new growth trajectory with a clear roadmap to become a developed state by 2036, aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. “I will utilise the best of my abilities to contribute towards achieving these goals,” he added.

As part of the reshuffle, Satyabrata Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government, Home Department, has been appointed as Member, Board of Revenue, Odisha, Cuttack. He had earlier been holding additional charge of the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department.

Meanwhile, Hemant Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries Department, will continue to hold additional charge of the Home Department. He is also entrusted with additional responsibilities related to the Information and Public Relations Department and IPICOL, according to the government notification.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda