India’s First IAS Couple to Hold Both Chief Secretary and State Election Commissioner Posts in Succession – Meet the Tiwari Power Pair
Alka Tiwari Appointed Jharkhand State Election Commissioner, Succeeding Her Husband in a Historic IAS Milestone
In an unprecedented development in Indian bureaucracy, Alka Tiwari (IAS: 1988) has been appointed the State Election Commissioner of Jharkhand on October 1, 2025—just a day after her retirement as the state’s Chief Secretary on September 30.
With this appointment, she and her husband, Devendra Kumar Tiwari, become the only IAS couple in India to have consecutively held both of Jharkhand’s top positions—Chief Secretary and State Election Commissioner (SEC).
A Career of Quiet Excellence
Upon her retirement, Ms. Tiwari handed over the charge of Chief Secretary to Avinash Kumar (IAS: 1993) on October 1. Within hours, the government announced her new constitutional role as State Election Commissioner under Article 243K of the Constitution of India, signifying a seamless shift from state administration to electoral oversight.
Often described as a “silent civil servant”, Alka Tiwari earned wide respect for her integrity, focus on governance, and avoidance of bureaucratic lobbying. Her career is seen as a model of quiet diligence and ethical leadership.
Following Her Husband’s Footsteps – Twice
The symmetry in the couple’s careers is striking:
D.K. Tiwari served as Jharkhand’s Chief Secretary (April 2019–March 2020), and later as State Election Commissioner (Feb 2021–March 2025).
Alka Tiwari succeeded him first as Chief Secretary (Nov 2024–Sept 2025), and now again as State Election Commissioner (from Oct 2025).
Their back-to-back appointments to both posts highlight not only personal achievement but also the institutional trust reposed in their competence, impartiality, and administrative credibility.
A Rare Legacy in Indian Bureaucracy
In a system where many senior civil servants angle for post-retirement positions, Alka Tiwari’s elevation to a constitutional office is being viewed as recognition of her merit and integrity.
Together, the Tiwaris symbolize a rare legacy in Indian bureaucracy: that dedication, fairness, and quiet service can still define success at the highest levels of governance.
