Central Government Approves Redesignation of Deputy Secretary-Level Position in Ministry of Coal
The Government of India has formally approved the upgradation of the post held by Shri Pankaj Jain, IAS (Madhya Pradesh cadre, 2012 batch), enhancing his position from Private Secretary at the Deputy Secretary level to Private Secretary at the Director level in the Ministry of Coal.
Shri Jain is currently serving as the Private Secretary to the Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy. The redesignation has been sanctioned as a personal measure in recognition of his service, and will take effect from the date he formally assumes charge of the upgraded position.
Tenure Details and Conditions
As per the government notification, the Director-level Private Secretary appointment will remain valid until February 26, 2030, or on a co-terminus basis with the tenure of the Minister, or until Shri Jain ceases to function as Private Secretary to the Minister, or until further orders — whichever occurs first.
The re-designation applies exclusively to Shri Pankaj Jain and does not alter the general cadre structure of the Ministry of Coal.
Central Deputation Commenced in 2025
Shri Jain’s central deputation tenure formally began on February 27, 2025, under the Central Staffing Scheme. His upgraded role places him in a senior advisory and coordination position, directly supporting the Union Minister in critical policy, administrative and parliamentary responsibilities relating to the coal and mining sectors.
Significance of the Upgrade
The enhancement of Shri Jain’s post to Director level underscores the Ministry’s confidence in his administrative capability and professional competence. The Coal and Mines portfolio is strategically vital to India’s energy security, industrial supply chains, and infrastructure growth, making the role of the Minister’s Private Secretary particularly significant.
With this elevation, Shri Jain is expected to play an even more prominent role in managing ministerial coordination, policy communication, and governance delivery within one of the country’s most crucial economic ministries.
