Rajeev Singh Thakur Set To Take Over As Manipur Chief Secretary

The move follows the approval of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) for Thakur’s inter-cadre deputation from the Rajasthan cadre to the Manipur cadre. The deputation has been approved up to June 30, 2029, which coincides with Thakur’s date of superannuation. The Centre has approved the arrangement as a relaxation of the existing deputation policy.

Thakur is currently serving as an Adviser in NITI Aayog in the rank and pay of Additional Secretary. His appointment to NITI Aayog was notified by the Government of India in February 2025 following ACC approval.

The proposed change at the top of Manipur’s bureaucracy comes at a particularly significant juncture. The state is preparing for the 2027 Assembly elections and continues to face major administrative and governance challenges following the prolonged ethnic conflict. The Chief Secretary will have a key role in coordinating the state machinery, implementation of government decisions, development programmes and preparations for the electoral process.

Dr Puneet Kumar Goel has been serving as Chief Secretary of Manipur since July 21, 2025. The Manipur Government’s official records currently identify Goel as the Chief Secretary. 

Thakur brings extensive experience of both the State and Central governments. His central-government career has included senior responsibilities in policy, infrastructure, defence and industrial development. His move from NITI Aayog to Manipur represents a significant shift from a policy-oriented central assignment to the state’s top administrative position.

The Centre’s approval effectively clears the way for Thakur’s elevation. However, the formal appointment as Chief Secretary is to be issued by the Manipur Government. Therefore, until that state order is published, the appointment is best described as “set to” or “expected to” rather than a formally notified Chief Secretary posting.

The change will also mark a transition from the current AGMUT-cadre leadership to a Rajasthan-cadre officer brought into the Manipur cadre through inter-cadre deputation. With the deputation extending until June 30, 2029, Thakur could provide administrative continuity through the next Assembly election cycle and beyond.