Rajesh Kumar, a 1988 Batch IAS Officer, Appointed as New Chief Secretary of Maharashtra
Maharashtra News, June 30, 2025: In a significant administrative reshuffle, the Maharashtra government today appointed Rajesh Kumar (IAS: 1988: MH) as the new Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, succeeding Sujata Saunik (IAS: 1987: MH), who retired from service on Monday.
A Last-Minute Leadership Transition
Rajesh Kumar’s appointment comes merely 61 days before his superannuation (retirement) on August 31, 2025. Despite the short tenure, Kumar brings decades of administrative experience to the state’s top bureaucratic post.
Currently serving as the Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue), Kumar will continue holding this position alongside his new role, as per an official order issued by V Radha, ACS (Services) of the General Administration Department.
A Stellar Administrative Career
A 1988-batch IAS officer, Kumar has held several key positions in Maharashtra, including:
- CEO of Beed Zilla Parishad
- District Collector of Dharashiv and Jalgaon
- Additional Chief Secretary since 2020
His extensive experience in revenue administration and district governance makes him a strategic choice for the state’s highest bureaucratic office.
Sujata Saunik Bids Farewell
Outgoing Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, a 1987-batch IAS officer and first woman chief secretary of Maharashtra, retired on Monday after a distinguished career. Her tenure saw critical policy implementations, and her successor will now steer Maharashtra’s administration through ongoing governance challenges.
What Lies Ahead?
With Kumar’s retirement just two months away, speculation arises about Maharashtra’s next administrative moves. Will the state see another swift transition, or will Kumar’s short stint pave the way for long-term stability?
