Bhubaneswar, December 31: Anu Garg officially took charge as the Chief Secretary of Odisha on Wednesday, succeeding Manoj Ahuja, who concluded his tenure.

Garg, a 1991-batch IAS officer, makes history as the first woman to hold the prestigious position in the state's bureaucracy.

Garg’s appointment is seen as a significant moment in the state’s governance. She is expected to build on the initiatives started by her predecessor while introducing new strategies for the state's continued growth. With her extensive experience, including her tenure as the Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary to the Planning and Convergence Department, Garg has demonstrated her capability in managing key development projects.

Known for her pragmatic leadership style, Garg’s role in overseeing the Water Resources Department has earned widespread praise. Her appointment comes after the retirement of Manoj Ahuja, whose leadership was instrumental in steering the state’s administrative functions.

With over three decades of service, Garg’s experience and hands-on approach have earned her the confidence of both the administration and the political leadership. She is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Odisha’s governance, continuing the state's commitment to effective and efficient leadership.

Before she assumed office, a meeting was held to mark Ahuja's retirement and acknowledge his valuable contributions to the administration. Senior officials from various departments attended the farewell ceremony, which reflected the smooth leadership transition