The Central Government has granted a one-year extension to Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, extending his tenure until June 28, 2026. This marks his fourth extension since his initial appointment in 2017.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions on Tuesday. Mr. Kotecha, a 2017 lateral entry appointee, was initially brought into the civil service from outside the traditional bureaucratic structure—a rare move that underscored the government’s intent to bring domain expertise into policymaking.
Fourth Extension Approved
Mr. Kotecha’s current term was due to end on June 28, 2025. With the latest extension, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), he will continue in the role on a contractual basis under the existing terms and conditions of his appointment.
A Rare Lateral Entry Success Story
Kotecha is one of the most notable examples of lateral entry into senior bureaucratic ranks. His appointment in 2017 was initially as Special Secretary in the Ministry of Ayush, and he was later elevated to Secretary. His selection marked a shift from the traditional appointment of career civil servants to high-level positions in the government.
Timeline of Extensions
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2017 – Appointed via lateral entry
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2020 – First extension for two years
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2022 – Second two-year extension
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2024 – Third extension for one year (until June 2025)
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2025 – Fourth extension granted, now valid till June 28, 2026
Professional Background
Before joining the Ministry, Kotecha was the Chief Consultant at Chakrapani Ayurveda Clinic in Jaipur and held a strong reputation in the field of Ayurveda. His appointment was aimed at integrating specialized knowledge into the formulation and execution of national policy for traditional systems of medicine.
About the Ministry of Ayush
The Ministry of Ayush—representing Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy—was established on November 9, 2014, to promote India’s ancient medical systems through structured education, research, and integration with mainstream healthcare. The ministry evolved from the Department of Indian System of Medicine and Homoeopathy (ISM&H), formed in 1995 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Under Mr. Kotecha’s leadership, the ministry has increased its focus on research, standardization of practices, and international cooperation, supporting the broader goal of positioning India as a global hub for traditional and integrative medicine.
