AP Govt Names IAS Officer G. Sai Prasad as Next Chief Secretary; To Take Charge on March 1, 2026
The Andhra Pradesh government has selected senior IAS officer G. Sai Prasad (1991 batch, AP cadre) as the next Chief Secretary of the state. The official order announcing his appointment was released on Saturday, November 29, 2025, as reported by Indian Masterminds. He will take over the post on March 1, 2026.
Sai Prasad’s appointment comes after the government decided to extend the tenure of the current Chief Secretary, K. Vijayanand (IAS:1992:AP), until February 28, 2026. Vijayanand will complete his extended service on that date, after which Sai Prasad will formally assume charge.
Extension Granted to Current Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand
Before finalizing the succession plan, the N. Chandrababu Naidu-led government approved a three-month extension for the serving Chief Secretary. Vijayanand was originally supposed to retire on November 30, 2025, but he will now remain in office until the end of February 2026.
This extension was given under Rule 16(1) of the All India Services (Death-Cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules, 1958, with approval from the competent authority. Vijayanand will retire upon reaching the age of superannuation on February 28, 2026.
Government Ensures an Orderly Administrative Transition
By extending Vijayanand’s term and announcing his successor in advance, the Andhra Pradesh government aims to maintain administrative stability at the top level. Officials said that the early decision was taken to prevent any leadership gaps and to keep the functioning of the state machinery smooth.
Sai Prasad Seen as the Front-Runner for Months
Even before the formal announcement, G. Sai Prasad was widely viewed as the top choice for the Chief Secretary’s position. His name had surfaced earlier as well when Vijayanand was appointed.
Several factors strengthened his claim to the post:
His service period continues until June 2026, ensuring continuity.
He previously served as Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu from 2014 to 2019.
Internal assurances were reportedly made regarding his elevation after Vijayanand’s tenure.
Senior TDP leaders supported his candidature, citing his experience, clean record, and seniority.
Support from party-aligned social media groups and political circles further boosted his chances.
Many officials and leaders described him as capable, steady, and free from controversy.
His Position Before the Appointment
Before being chosen as Chief Secretary, Sai Prasad held two key roles:
Special Chief Secretary, Water Resources Department
Ex-Officio Special Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister
His work in water resources, infrastructure management, and coordination with the Chief Minister’s Office played a major role in his selection.
Profile: Who Is G. Sai Prasad?
G. Sai Prasad was born on May 6, 1966, in Andhra Pradesh. He joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1991 at the age of 25, after successfully clearing the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 1990. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a committed and highly efficient administrator.
