Proposal for Extension Sent to Centre; SP Goyal, Devesh Chaturvedi, and Deepak Kumar Emerge as Top Contenders
With Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh’s tenure set to end on July 31, 2025, uncertainty looms over his continuation. As of now, the central government has not issued a formal decision on whether his term will be extended, fueling intense speculation across Uttar Pradesh’s bureaucratic and political corridors.
A 1988-batch IAS officer, Singh was appointed Chief Secretary on June 30, 2024, and is widely regarded as a key figure in the Yogi Adityanath government. He has been instrumental in steering major initiatives, particularly in industrial development, investment promotion, and the state’s $1 trillion economy roadmap.
Proposal for One-Year Extension Sent to Centre
Sources confirm that the state government has officially recommended a one-year extension for Singh, citing his leadership in events like the Global Investors Summit and the Ground Breaking Ceremony, as well as his success in policy coordination and administrative reforms. The proposal has been forwarded to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Government of India.
However, the final decision rests with the central government and is expected by July 30.
Who Could Succeed Him If Extension Is Denied?
In the event that the extension is not approved, a new Chief Secretary will have to be appointed. Among the top contenders are:
SP Goyal (1989 Batch): Currently Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, Goyal is considered a close and trusted aide of CM Yogi Adityanath. His strong hold over the secretariat and administrative network makes him a serious internal candidate.
Devesh Chaturvedi (1989 Batch): Serving as Secretary, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, Chaturvedi is known for his capable leadership and crisis-handling abilities. Having previously served as District Magistrate of Gorakhpur during Yogi Adityanath’s tenure as MP, he brings both administrative experience and political familiarity. His appointment, however, would require central clearance.
Deepak Kumar (1990 Batch): Presently the Agriculture Production Commissioner of UP, Kumar is widely respected for his integrity, swift decision-making, and non-partisan approach. He is viewed as a competent and balanced administrator.
Political and Administrative Significance
According to government insiders, the Yogi administration leans toward continuity, especially considering the scale of ongoing infrastructure, investment, and social welfare projects. Replacing Singh at this juncture could lead to a reorganization of key responsibilities and may also impact the state’s bureaucratic strategy ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
The decision will also reflect the Centre-State dynamic in senior appointments, given the political weight of Uttar Pradesh in national affairs.
Final Decision Awaited
With just days remaining before Singh’s scheduled retirement, all eyes are on the Centre. Whether Manoj Kumar Singh’s term is extended or a new officer takes over, the outcome will shape the administrative trajectory of Uttar Pradesh in the crucial years ahead.
Until then, the uncertainty continues, with speculation rife across both bureaucratic and political circles.
