In a significant administrative reshuffle, Senior Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) officer Deba Prasad Dash has been promoted to the rank of Special Secretary and entrusted with the additional charge of Director, Information and Public Relations (I&PR) Department in Odisha. The appointment was officially announced through a notification issued by the General Administration & Public Grievance Department. The post of Director, I&PR had remained vacant since Saroj Samal’s superannuation on February 28, 2025, and the government has now placed its trust in the seasoned bureaucrat to lead the department, which plays a vital role in disseminating government policies and managing public communication across the state.

Deba Prasad Dash was previously serving as Joint Secretary in the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture, where his tenure was marked by dedicated efforts toward preserving and promoting Odisha’s linguistic and cultural heritage. With this promotion, he will now serve as the Special Secretary in the same department, reflecting the state government’s recognition of his commendable contributions and administrative excellence. Throughout his career, Shri Dash has held several key positions within the state administration, earning a reputation for his efficiency, commitment, and leadership skills. His promotion and the addition of the I&PR portfolio signify the government’s continued focus on effective public communication, media engagement, and the strategic dissemination of information.

The Information and Public Relations Department plays a crucial role in shaping the public image of the government, managing media relations, and executing awareness campaigns. With Dash at the helm, the department is expected to see enhanced focus on transparency, outreach, and public engagement. This development is being seen as a strategic move by the state government to further streamline its communication strategy and bolster citizen-centric governance. Deba Prasad Dash’s dual role as Special Secretary in the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture and Director of I&PR positions him as a key player in Odisha’s cultural and administrative framework.