Speculation is rife within Telangana’s administrative circles as the tenure of the current Chief Secretary (CS), K. Ramakrishna Rao, draws to a close on March 31, 2024. Originally slated to retire in August 2025, Rao’s service was extended by seven months following a request from Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. With a further extension deemed unlikely, the focus has shifted to senior IAS officer Jayesh Ranjan as the primary contender for the state’s top bureaucratic post. A 1992-batch officer and an All-India topper, Ranjan’s deep understanding of state administration and his pivotal roles in key departments over the last decade have placed him at the forefront of the race.
Currently serving as the Special Chief Secretary for Metropolitan Administration and Urban Development, Jayesh Ranjan is widely recognized for his transformative work in the IT and Industries sectors. He played a crucial role in establishing T-Hub, India’s largest startup incubator, and has been a central figure in attracting global investments to Telangana. His academic credentials from prestigious institutions like IIM Calcutta and the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, combined with his reputation for maintaining a “clean image,” make him a preferred choice for the Revanth Reddy government, which values administrative continuity and expertise.
Key Considerations and Competitors:
While Jayesh Ranjan is the leading name, the selection process involves weighing seniority and departmental track records.
