IRAS Officer Praneet Choudhary Appointed as Deputy Director General in DG Shipping, Mumbai
In a major administrative development, the Government of India has approved the appointment of Mr Praneet Choudhary, IRAS (2008 batch) to a key senior position in the maritime administration of the country. He has been selected for posting as Deputy Director General (Director-level) in the Directorate General of Shipping, Mumbai, functioning under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
Mr Choudhary had earlier been recommended for central deputation by the Ministry of Railways, and his selection has now been finalized under the Central Staffing Scheme, which governs the placement of senior civil servants in important central government assignments.
Five-Year Tenure Under Central Staffing Scheme
According to the official order, Mr Choudhary will serve in his new role for a fixed tenure of five years, commencing from the date he formally assumes charge of the post. His appointment will remain valid until the completion of this tenure or until further orders are issued by the competent authority, whichever occurs earlier.
The Directorate General of Shipping, headquartered in Mumbai, plays a critical role in regulating maritime safety, shipping standards, seafarer certification, and international maritime compliance. His appointment is therefore seen as strategically important for strengthening India’s maritime governance framework.
Immediate Relieving and Joining Instructions Issued
The Ministry has directed that Mr Choudhary be relieved from his present assignment with immediate effect so that he may proceed to take charge of his new responsibilities in Mumbai without delay.
The Department of Personnel and Training (DoP&T) has further reminded that, in accordance with the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) guidelines, officers selected under the Central Staffing Scheme are required to join their assigned posts within three weeks from the date of issuance of the appointment order.
Failure to adhere to this timeline may attract debarment proceedings under the Central Staffing Scheme, as stipulated in DoP&T Circular No. 3/4/2004-EO(MM-I) dated 17 August 2005.
