IAS Rohit Meena Returns, Banshidhar Tiwari Joins CM’s Core Team
Despite the ongoing Model Code of Conduct for the Panchayat elections in Uttarakhand, significant changes continue within the state’s administrative machinery. In a notable development, IAS officer Rohit Meena has rejoined service after completing his study leave, while senior bureaucrat Banshidhar Tiwari has been assigned a prominent role in Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s office.
Rohit Meena Likely to Receive First District Posting
Rohit Meena, a 2014-batch IAS officer, has been attached to the Personnel Department following his return. Sources within the government suggest he may soon be given a field-level posting—possibly his first assignment as a District Magistrate (DM).
Interestingly, Meena has not yet served as either a DM or a Chief Development Officer (CDO). His career so far has been centered around key administrative roles, including Managing Director of Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam and the Industries Department. The government is now reportedly considering a district-level leadership role for him to broaden his administrative experience.
Nitika Khandelwal’s Appointment Sets a Precedent
A comparable case is that of IAS officer Nitika Khandelwal, who was recently appointed DM of Tehri despite not having previously held such a post. Her appointment has sparked internal discussions about advancing other mid-career officers, like Meena, into district leadership roles. Observers believe Meena may follow a similar path, aligning with CM Dhami’s emphasis on empowering emerging officers.
Banshidhar Tiwari Appointed to Key Role in CM’s Office
Meanwhile, senior IAS officer Banshidhar Tiwari has been named Additional Secretary to the Chief Minister. Alongside this, he has been entrusted with dual responsibilities as Vice President of the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) and Director General, Information. His appointment signals a strengthening of the Chief Minister’s core team.
Tiwari’s inclusion comes soon after IFS officer Parag Madhukar Dhakate was also brought into the CM’s office. These appointments suggest a broader administrative reshuffle led by Chief Minister Dhami, potentially laying the groundwork for major policy actions post-election.
Further Changes Expected Post-Election
While these appointments reflect strategic repositioning within the state bureaucracy, additional postings and transfers are expected soon. However, due to the Model Code of Conduct, major reshuffles—particularly at the district and municipal levels—will likely be deferred until the conclusion of the electoral process.
Overall, the recent developments point to CM Dhami’s assertive and, at times, unconventional approach to governance—particularly in promoting capable officers who have so far remained behind the scenes.
