Remembering IAS Jitendra Kumar: The Visionary Officer Who Redefined Governance and Tourism in Uttar Pradesh
Being an officer Mr Jitendra Kumar is well known as a distinguished administrator and Reformer.
Mr. Jitendra Kumar, a 1990-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, passed away on Sunday after a prolonged battle with cancer. He had retired from service on June 30, 2025, concluding nearly 35 years of exemplary public service. Admitted to PGI Lucknow on Friday following a sudden decline in health, he passed away around noon on Sunday, leaving behind a legacy marked by administrative reform, visionary leadership, and a deep commitment to development.
A Lifelong Commitment to Public Welfare
Throughout his long and distinguished career, Mr. Kumar was known for his balanced approach, efficiency, and unwavering sense of duty. Serving in the Uttar Pradesh cadre — one of India’s most dynamic and complex administrative environments — he handled numerous critical assignments that significantly shaped the state’s governance landscape.
His major roles included serving as Principal Secretary of the General Administration Department (GAD) and Principal Secretary–Tourism, where he also held additional charge as Director General (DG) Tourism, Uttar Pradesh. Under his leadership, these departments witnessed structural improvements, better coordination, and a renewed focus on transparency and performance.
Champion of Reform and Cultural Advancement
Beyond administrative efficiency, Mr. Kumar’s career was defined by his drive for systemic reform. He led several initiatives in reorganisation, policy formulation, language promotion, and cultural development, making significant contributions to the state’s modernization efforts.
His elevation to the Apex (Additional Chief Secretary) scale reflected the confidence successive governments placed in his ability to lead with integrity and foresight. As head of the Tourism Department, he worked to reposition Uttar Pradesh as a cultural and spiritual tourism hub, highlighting heritage circuits, religious tourism, and new economic opportunities in the sector.
A Final Goodbye to a Respected Leader
Mr. Kumar’s passing has left the civil services fraternity deeply saddened. His last rites were held at Bhaisakund, attended by a large gathering of senior bureaucrats, ministers, and dignitaries. Among those present were former minister Mohsin Raza, Chief Minister’s advisor Avnish Awasthi, Chief Secretary S.P. Goyal, and several Principal Secretaries, including Deepak Kumar, Anil Kumar, Dr. Hariom, Alok Kumar, and Sunil Chaudhary.
He is survived by his wife Ms. Seema Gupta, two daughters, and a son. His family’s quiet strength and grace in this moment of loss reflect the humility and composure that defined Mr. Kumar’s life.
A Legacy Etched in Integrity and Vision
Mr. Jitendra Kumar’s demise marks the loss of a principled and reform-minded bureaucrat who shaped public administration in Uttar Pradesh for over three decades. Known for his disciplined work ethic and people-centric approach, he earned admiration across political and bureaucratic circles.
His relentless pursuit of excellence — particularly in governance reforms and tourism development — will continue to guide future generations of civil servants. Mr. Kumar’s life stands as a testament to how sincerity, vision, and dedication in public service can profoundly influence the developmental journey of a state.
