Cabinet Committee Extends Additional Charge of CEO, Coconut Development Board, to Horticulture Commissioner Prabhat Kumar for Six Months
In a recent administrative decision, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has formally approved the proposal submitted by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare regarding the continuation of additional responsibilities for a senior officer.
As per the order, Shri Prabhat Kumar, Indian Administrative Service officer and presently serving as Horticulture Commissioner, will continue to hold the additional charge of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Coconut Development Board (COB) at the Joint Secretary level. The extension has been granted for a further period of six months with effect from 6 October 2025, or until a regular incumbent is appointed to the post, or until further instructions are issued—whichever event occurs earlier.
This decision ensures continuity in the leadership of the Coconut Development Board, a statutory body under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, which plays a pivotal role in promoting coconut cultivation, processing, and marketing across India. The Board is responsible for implementing schemes that support farmers, enhance productivity, and strengthen the coconut-based industry, making the CEO’s role crucial for policy execution and sectoral growth.
By entrusting Shri Prabhat Kumar with this extended responsibility, the government underscores its confidence in his administrative expertise and sectoral knowledge. His dual role as Horticulture Commissioner and CEO of the Coconut Development Board is expected to provide synergy between horticultural development initiatives and coconut sector reforms.
