In a significant bureaucratic shake-up, the Maharashtra government transferred eight senior IAS officers on the last day of 2024, marking a major reshuffle in the state’s administrative machinery. The changes were announced on Tuesday, December 31, as part of the ongoing efforts to revitalize the state’s governance.
Among the key changes, HS Sonawane, the outgoing Inspector General of Registration and Stamps, has been replaced by Ravindra Binwade, the current State Agriculture Commissioner. Sonawane’s transfer is part of a broader restructuring of key positions within the state administration. Binwade’s vast experience in the agricultural sector is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the role.
Meanwhile, Suraj Mandhare, the former Sports and Youth Commissioner, has been appointed as the new Agriculture Commissioner. This transfer highlights the state’s focus on addressing agricultural concerns and improving infrastructure in the sector.
In the education sector, IA Kundan, the Principal Secretary of School Education and Sports, has been replaced by Ranjit Singh Deol, who previously held the position of Food and Civil Supply Principal Secretary. Deol’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to bolster the state’s education and sports policies in the new year.
Additionally, Sachindra Pratap Singh, the outgoing Secretary of the Divyang Welfare Department, has been reassigned as the new Commissioner of School Education. This move is expected to bring fresh leadership to the school education sector, following a year of significant changes in education policy.
The Commissioner of Women and Child Welfare, Prashant Narnavare, has been transferred to the post of Secretary of Special Inquiry Officer in the General Administration Department. This change indicates the state’s ongoing efforts to streamline administrative functions and address various inquiries and concerns within the system.
Further reshuffling sees Ruchesh Jayvanshi, the CEO of Rashtriya Gramin Jivannoti Abhiyan, being appointed as the Secretary of the Minority Affairs Department. Jayvanshi’s appointment comes as part of the government’s continued focus on minority welfare and development.
In a notable appointment, Geetanjali Baviskar, previously the President of the Nashik District Caste Verification Committee, has been appointed as the CEO of Maharashtra State Khadi and Gramodyog Board. This transfer aims to strengthen the state’s efforts in promoting rural employment and handicrafts.
The CEO of Maharashtra State Khadi and Gramodyog Board, Pradip P, has been moved to the post of Fisheries Commissioner. The transfer aligns with the government’s plans to focus on sustainable fisheries and marine resources management in the state.
Lastly, Aahok Karanjkar has been appointed as the new Managing Director of the Maharashtra State Finance Corporation, a position critical for the state’s financial health and support to the industrial sector.