This week witnessed two notable developments in the All India Services landscape—one involving a cadre reassignment due to inter-service marriage, and the other resolving a long-standing deputation impasse between the Centre and a state government.
Aditya Kumar Singh Shifts to Maharashtra Following Matrimonial Grounds
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has sanctioned the transfer of IPS officer Aditya Kumar Singh (2023 batch, Odisha cadre) to Maharashtra. The decision comes in the wake of his marriage to fellow IPS officer Eshani Anand (2024 batch, Maharashtra cadre), and adheres to provisions under Rule 5(2) of the IPS (Cadre) Rules, 1954, which permit inter-cadre transfers to support family cohesion—subject to mutual consent from both states and cadre availability.
This move reflects a growing pattern among civil servants seeking cadre alignment post-marriage, reinforcing the service’s commitment to family-friendly administrative norms.
KK Pathak Cleared for Central Posting After Prolonged Delay
In a separate bureaucratic resolution, the Rajasthan Government has formally released Dr KK Pathak (IAS: 2001) from his role as Secretary in the Department of Personnel, thereby enabling his central deputation as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Fertilisers.
The clearance comes after months of administrative friction that began in July 2025, when Rajasthan reportedly revoked its No Objection Certificate (NOC), citing a critical shortage of senior IAS officers. Despite the state’s reservations, the Centre proceeded with Dr Pathak’s appointment on 13 September 2025, leaving his actual relieving order in limbo and sparking widespread speculation.
With Rajasthan finally issuing the relieving order on 15 October 2025, Dr Pathak is now set to formally join his new assignment at the Ministry.
Broader Implications and Administrative Signals
Dr Pathak’s case highlights the persistent tension between state governments and the Centre over control and timing of senior-level postings. It also underscores the procedural complexities that can stall high-level appointments despite formal approvals.
Meanwhile, Aditya Kumar Singh’s cadre shift illustrates the civil services’ evolving approach to personal and professional balance, with inter-cadre transfers increasingly recognized as a legitimate mechanism to support officer well-being.
