Final Decision on Extension Imminent as Senior Bureaucrats Await Their Chance
With Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh set to retire on July 31, 2025, speculation grows over who will next lead the state’s bureaucracy.
Seen as a key ally of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Singh could secure an extension if the state government recommends it and the Centre approves. If not, the race is wide open, with several senior IAS officers from the 1989 and 1990 batches emerging as top contenders.
Will Singh Get an Extension?
Singh, a 1988-batch IAS officer, has long been one of CM Adityanath’s most trusted administrators. Given his close ties to the leadership and his performance, discussions are reportedly underway about extending his tenure.
Sources indicate that the state government may soon forward a proposal to the Centre, which holds the final authority on such extensions.
Potential Successors if No Extension is Granted
Should Singh retire as scheduled, the following officers are seen as leading candidates:
S.P. Goyal (1989 Batch) – The Frontrunner
Current Roles: Additional Chief Secretary to the CM, overseeing Civil Aviation, Estate, and serving as Additional Resident Commissioner
Advantages: Eight years of direct collaboration with CM Adityanath makes him a strong insider
Retirement: 2027, allowing ample time to shape policy
Devesh Chaturvedi (1989 Batch) – The Central Contender
Current Role: Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperation (Government of India)
Strengths: Known for sharp administrative skills and a clean track record
Challenge: Currently on central deputation, making his return to UP uncertain
Anil Kumar (1989 Batch) – Out of Contention
Current Role: Chairman, Revenue Board
Status: Despite seniority, sources suggest he is not in consideration for the top post
Deepak Kumar (1990 Batch) – The Dark Horse
Current Roles: Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC), Additional Chief Secretary (Finance), and in charge of Basic and Secondary Education
Advantages: Close to CM Adityanath, with strong internal backing
Retirement: October 2026, giving him a competitive edge over some 1989-batch peers
Continuity vs. Change: A Strategic Decision
With Singh’s retirement just weeks away, the UP government faces a crucial choice—retain an experienced hand or bring in fresh leadership from a pool of capable officers.
Political observers note that the decision will send a significant signal ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, making it a closely watched development in the state’s power corridors.
