In a significant administrative move, senior IAS officer Nikunja Bihari Dhal has been appointed as the Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister of Odisha. A distinguished 1993-batch IAS officer from the Odisha cadre, Dhal is currently serving as the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha, a position he has held since March 2023. The General Administration and Public Grievance Department issued a notification confirming Dhal’s new appointment: “Nikunja Bihari Dhal, chief electoral officer, Odisha and ex-officio additional chief secretary, Home department, is appointed as additional chief secretary to chief minister, Odisha.” This appointment underscores Dhal’s extensive experience and trusted role within the state government.
Dhal has held several key positions within the state administration. Prior to his role as CEO, he served as the Additional Chief Secretary in the Energy Department and was also the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC). His tenure in these roles was marked by significant contributions to the state’s governance and administrative efficiency. Notably, under Dhal’s supervision, the recent simultaneous elections to the Assembly and Lok Sabha in Odisha were conducted peacefully, highlighting his adeptness in managing critical electoral processes. This successful oversight during a crucial period further cements his reputation as a capable and reliable officer.
Dhal’s new role as the Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister of Odisha places him in a pivotal position to influence and implement key state policies. His extensive background in various administrative roles is expected to bring a wealth of experience and strategic vision to the Chief Minister’s office.
In a significant administrative move, senior IAS officer Nikunja Bihari Dhal has been appointed as the Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister of Odisha. A distinguished 1993-batch IAS officer from the Odisha cadre, Dhal is currently serving as the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha, a position he has held since March 2023. The General Administration and Public Grievance Department issued a notification confirming Dhal’s new appointment: “Nikunja Bihari Dhal, chief electoral officer, Odisha and ex-officio additional chief secretary, Home department, is appointed as additional chief secretary to chief minister, Odisha.” This appointment underscores Dhal’s extensive experience and trusted role within the state government.
Dhal has held several key positions within the state administration. Prior to his role as CEO, he served as the Additional Chief Secretary in the Energy Department and was also the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC). His tenure in these roles was marked by significant contributions to the state’s governance and administrative efficiency. Notably, under Dhal’s supervision, the recent simultaneous elections to the Assembly and Lok Sabha in Odisha were conducted peacefully, highlighting his adeptness in managing critical electoral processes. This successful oversight during a crucial period further cements his reputation as a capable and reliable officer.
Dhal’s new role as the Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister of Odisha places him in a pivotal position to influence and implement key state policies. His extensive background in various administrative roles is expected to bring a wealth of experience and strategic vision to the Chief Minister’s office.
