Rajasthan’s senior IAS officer, Shuchi Tyagi (2007 batch), has been named the new Secretary of the Department of Personnel (DoP) following the deputation of KK Pathak to the Centre. Tyagi, who already serves as Secretary and Commissioner of the Transport Department, will now juggle two demanding portfolios — a move that has drawn both appreciation and concern within bureaucratic circles.
Double Responsibility Amid Administrative Crisis
Tyagi’s appointment comes at a time when the Transport Department is battling public criticism and internal challenges. The department has been under the scanner due to a string of accidents, enforcement lapses, and a worrying dip in revenue collection.
This is not Tyagi’s first brush with the DoP. She had earlier handled the same role temporarily during Pathak’s absence, earning praise for her efficient and result-driven approach. Over her career, she has served as Collector in three districts and is widely regarded for her discipline, precision, and administrative command.
Since taking over the Transport Department in September 2024, Tyagi has introduced measures to tighten discipline among officials and streamline operations. Her management during the Prime Minister’s visit to Dadiya, Jaipur, in December 2024, earned her public acknowledgment for smooth coordination and effective planning.
Transport Department Faces Backlash After Fatal Mishaps
Tyagi steps into her dual role during a turbulent phase. Two tragic incidents in October have amplified scrutiny:
Jaisalmer: A luxury bus caught fire due to a malfunctioning AC unit and illegal firecracker transport, killing 20 passengers.
Jaipur: A schoolgirl was killed by a bus running on an expired permit that had not been renewed in five years.
Both cases exposed deep-rooted problems — from poor enforcement and lax vehicle checks to alleged political interference shielding negligent officials. Critics argue that the department’s credibility has been shaken, demanding stronger accountability mechanisms.
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Revenue Gaps and Corruption Allegations
Financially, the Transport Department has underperformed despite being Rajasthan’s second-highest revenue generator.
As of September 2025, collections stood at ₹3,248 crore, only 33% of the ₹9,860 crore target.
A ₹616 crore shortfall has already emerged in the first half of the fiscal year.
Reports of tax leakages in border regions suggest weak supervision and possible evasion.
Even after the transfer of 234 transport inspectors, almost 100 remained in the same postings, raising questions about the effectiveness of the restructuring drive.
Debate Over Dual Charge
Administrative observers are concerned that handling both DoP and Transport may stretch Tyagi too thin. Given the Transport Department’s current crisis, experts believe the role requires undivided attention to restore efficiency and rebuild public trust.
“A dual charge at this point could dilute reform efforts,” commented a retired IAS officer. “The Transport Department urgently needs focused leadership to address systemic failures.”
Who Is Shuchi Tyagi?
Batch: 2007 IAS
Reputation: Straightforward, disciplined, and field-oriented officer
Experience: Served as Collector in three districts
Notable Work: Managed large-scale logistics during high-profile visits and administrative reviews
Tyagi’s latest appointment is being viewed as a test of her administrative resilience and the state government’s confidence in her leadership. As she balances two of Rajasthan’s most critical departments, all eyes are on whether her pragmatic approach can stabilize governance amid growing turbulence.
