MHA Approves HAG Promotion for AGMUT Cadre IAS Officers Mandeep K. Bhandari and Sanjeev Verma; Two Others Granted Proforma Elevation
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has accorded approval for the promotion of two senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers of the AGMUT cadre to the Higher Administrative Grade (HAG), a level that is on par with the rank of Principal Secretary in state governments. The decision was cleared on Friday following the recommendations of the competent screening authorities.
As per the official order, the promotions will become operative from 1 January 2026, or from the date the officers formally assume charge of the HAG post, whichever occurs later.
Officers Elevated to the Higher Administrative Grade
Based on the recommendations of the Screening Committee, the following AGMUT cadre officers have been promoted to HAG (Level-15 of the Pay Matrix):
Mandeep K. Bhandari (IAS: 2001)
Sanjeev Verma (IAS: 2001)
Both officers are currently serving within the AGMUT cadre and will assume responsibilities commensurate with the senior-most administrative leadership at the state or central level.
Proforma Promotion for Officers on Central Deputation
In addition to the regular promotions, the Ministry has also sanctioned proforma promotion to two AGMUT cadre IAS officers who are presently posted on central deputation. The officers granted proforma elevation to the HAG level are:
Lokhande Prashant Sitaram (IAS: 2001)
Ankita Mishra Bundela (IAS: 2001)
For these officers, the HAG promotion will be effective from 1 January 2026 on an actual basis, with effect from the date their immediate juniors in the AGMUT cadre assume charge in the promoted grade, in accordance with service rules.
Significance of Higher Administrative Grade (HAG)
The Higher Administrative Grade, corresponding to Level-15 in the Pay Matrix, represents one of the most senior positions in the IAS hierarchy. Officers at this level typically serve as Principal Secretaries in state governments or hold Additional Secretary-equivalent roles at the Centre. They are entrusted with critical policy formulation, high-level administrative oversight, and strategic governance responsibilities, playing a decisive role in shaping both state and national administration.
