Historic Milestone: Anu Garg Becomes Odisha’s First Woman Chief Secretary

In a landmark decision that breaks a long-standing glass ceiling in the state’s administrative history, the Odisha government has appointed senior IAS officer Anu Garg as the new Chief Secretary of Odisha. She will be the first woman to hold the highest bureaucratic post in the state.

Appointment Effective from January 2026

Anu Garg, a 1991-batch IAS officer of the Odisha cadre, is set to assume charge on January 1, 2026, following the retirement of the incumbent Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja on December 31, 2025.
The appointment order was issued on December 24 and signed by the Director of General Administration and Public Grievance, officially communicating the decision to Garg.

Over Three Decades of Administrative Experience

With more than 30 years of service in Odisha’s administration, Garg brings extensive experience across multiple sectors. She is currently serving as the Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary of the Planning and Convergence Department, while also holding additional charge of the Water Resources Department.

Held Key Portfolios in State and Central Government

Throughout her distinguished career, Garg has held several senior positions, including Principal Secretary in the Health and Family Welfare, Women and Child Development, and Labour and ESI departments. At the district level, she has served as Collector of Sambalpur and Bargarh.

At the national level, Garg has worked in the Ministries of Textiles and Health and also served as Joint Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), gaining valuable experience in central policymaking.

A Milestone for Women’s Representation in Governance

Anu Garg will be the 47th Chief Secretary in Odisha’s history. Her appointment is being seen as a significant step toward enhancing women’s representation in top administrative positions in the state.

Known for her expertise in policymaking, integrated water resource management, and social sector governance, Garg is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening Odisha’s development framework while steering new initiatives for inclusive and sustainable growth.