West Bengal's Leadership Overhaul: New Chief Secretary and Cabinet Portfolios Announced

The government of West Bengal has appointed Manoj Kumar Agarwal, the state's Chief Electoral Officer, as its new Chief Secretary. This announcement was made via a notification from the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms.

In a rapid administrative restructure post-elections, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has allocated key portfolios. Dilip Ghosh will oversee Rural Development, Panchayats, and Animal Resources. Ashok Kirtania takes charge of the Food Department, Khudiram Tudu heads the Backwards Class Welfare, Agnimitra Paul leads Women and Child Welfare, and Nisith Pramanik handles North Bengal Development, Sports, and Youth Welfare.

The reshuffle signifies the new administration's commitment to align state governance with central policies. Immediate plans include rolling out Ayushman Bharat and other central welfare schemes. Additionally, the government has raised the upper age limit for government job applications by five years to enhance employment opportunities.

(With inputs from agencies.)