The North News
Chandigarh, March 24
Dr Ravi Bhagat, a senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, assumed the role of Principal Secretary to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday. The official handover took place in the presence of senior state officials at the CM’s office.
A 2006-batch IAS officer, Bhagat has served in multiple key administrative roles across Punjab. Known for his innovative approach to governance and public service, he has been credited with introducing reforms aimed at improving citizen-centric services.
Holding a doctorate in the geopolitics of the Minimum Support Price (MSP), Bhagat began his IAS career as Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Malout (2008-2009). He later served as Deputy Commissioner in Faridkot, Amritsar, and Ludhiana. His extensive administrative experience includes roles as Chief Administrator of Punjab Urban Development Authority (PUDA) and GMADA, CEO of e-Governance, and Secretary of multiple departments, including Public Relations and Renewable Energy. He had also been Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister since 2021.
Bhagat played a pivotal role in streamlining government services during the Covid-19 pandemic, earning widespread recognition. His leadership also led to two Guinness World Records: a 2015 anti-drug campaign involving 10,000 students and a 2018 initiative where participants from 82 nations sang for peace.
Upon assuming office, Bhagat chaired a meeting and underscored his commitment to implementing the state government’s pro-people policies. He pledged to prioritise education, health, and employment while ensuring efficient delivery of public services.
