Three IAS officers have been assigned new responsibilities in Delhi whereas Kaushal R Sharma named Delhi Jal Board CEO.
Meanwhile, Anil Kumar Singh, a 1995-batch AGMUT cadre officer, continue,s as Principal Secretary (Services) and will now additionally handle the Environment and Forests Department.
In a major administrative reshuffle, the Delhi Government has reassigned three IAS officers to key positions. Among them, 2006-batch IAS officer Kaushal Raj Sharma has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Delhi Jal Board (DJB). The appointments, effective May 6, 2025, were formalized through Order No. 159 issued by the Delhi Government’s Services Department.
The restructuring also designates 2006-batch IAS officer Shilpa Shinde as Commissioner and Secretary (Development), with additional responsibility as Secretary (Cooperation).
A Trusted Leader with a Stellar Record
IAS Kaushal Raj Sharma, known for his administrative excellence, is regarded as one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s most reliable officers. Prior to his Delhi posting, Sharma served as Secretary to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and held pivotal roles, including District Magistrate (DM) and Divisional Commissioner of Varanasi—PM Modi’s parliamentary constituency. His leadership was instrumental in executing key projects like the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, completed seamlessly under his supervision. Recognized among the top 50 IAS officers by Fame India Magazine in 2020, he was also honored with the PM Excellence Award in 2022.
As DJB CEO, Sharma will spearhead efforts to optimize water supply, combat groundwater depletion, and reduce wastage in the capital. His expertise in large-scale project management will be vital in addressing the board’s pressing challenges.
Addressing Delhi’s Water Woes
Sharma assumes office amid a worsening water crisis in Delhi. The Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government has faced allegations of curtailing Delhi’s water share, exacerbating shortages, especially during peak summer.
Delhi’s Water Minister, Pravesh Verma, has accused Punjab of politically motivated water cuts, alleging that the state is withholding Delhi’s rightful allocation from the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). With tensions rising, Sharma’s immediate priority will be to stabilize supply and implement sustainable water management strategies.
A Daunting Task Ahead
Given his proven administrative acumen, Kaushal Raj Sharma’s appointment as DJB CEO carries significant expectations. As Delhi battles scarcity and surging demand, his leadership will be critical in ensuring efficient water distribution, curbing losses, and averting future crises.
