Puneet Kumar Goel Appointed as New Chief Secretary of Manipur

Puneet Kumar Goel has been appointed as the new Chief Secretary of Manipur, succeeding Prashant Kumar Singh. His extensive experience in administration, particularly in the Northeast, is expected to aid in addressing the state's current ethnic unrest and rehabilitation efforts for displaced individuals. This strategic appointment comes at a crucial time as Manipur continues to navigate complex socio-political challenges. Singh, the outgoing Chief Secretary, has been assigned to the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes after a brief tenure marked by his commitment to rehabilitating relief camp inmates by December 2025. The state has been under President's Rule since February 13, following the resignation of the Chief Minister.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 16, 2025, 15:25 IST

New Leadership in Manipur

Imphal, July 16: The Indian government has designated Puneet Kumar Goel, a senior IAS officer, as the new Chief Secretary of Manipur, succeeding Prashant Kumar Singh, as confirmed by officials on Wednesday.

According to a notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has sanctioned Goel's appointment. He is a member of the 1991 batch of the Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre.

Previously, Goel held the position of Chief Secretary in Goa and possesses extensive administrative experience in various Union Territories and the Northeast region.

His transfer to Manipur was made possible through an inter-cadre deputation from AGMUT to the Manipur cadre, as stated in the MHA order dated July 16.

Goel's appointment is particularly significant as the state faces ethnic tensions and ongoing rehabilitation efforts for those affected by violence, indicating a strategic initiative to promote stability and effective governance.

A senior official noted that Goel's established reputation for consistent leadership and effective policy implementation will be vital in navigating the state's challenging environment and fulfilling urgent development and humanitarian needs.

The Appointments Committee also appointed the outgoing Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh as the Secretary of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes.

Singh's brief tenure in Manipur was characterized by his sensitive approach to socio-political issues and his public pledge to rehabilitate all individuals in relief camps by December 2025.

Since February 13, Manipur has been under President's Rule, following the resignation of N. Biren Singh from the Chief Minister's position.