Sat May 17 07:09:18 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has appointed A. Pradeep Kumar, a three-time CPI(M) legislator from Kozhikode (North), as his new private secretary. He replaces K.K. Ragesh, who is now the party’s district secretary in Kannur. Kumar is a former student activist and chairman of Calicut University.

**News Article:**

**A. Pradeep Kumar Appointed as Kerala CM’s Private Secretary**

**Thiruvananthapuram – May 17, 2025 -** Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has appointed A. Pradeep Kumar as his new private secretary. The announcement, made earlier today, sees Mr. Kumar, a veteran member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], stepping into the role previously held by K.K. Ragesh.

Mr. Ragesh has been appointed as the CPI(M)’s district secretary in Kannur, prompting the vacancy. A. Pradeep Kumar brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served three terms as a legislator representing the Kozhikode (North) constituency in the 12th, 13th, and 14th Kerala Legislative Assembly. He is also an honorary fellow of the Indian Institute of Architects.

A native of Chelakkad near Nadapuram in Vadakara taluk, Mr. Kumar’s political journey began in the early 1980s as an activist with the Students’ Federation of India (SFI). He further solidified his leadership credentials by serving as chairman of Calicut University from 1986 to 1987.

The appointment signals a continued commitment to experienced leadership within the Chief Minister’s office. The Hindu will continue to provide updates on this developing story.

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