Wed Dec 24 20:20:05 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the text provided:

Summary:

Anu Garg, a 1991-batch IAS officer, has been appointed as the new Chief Secretary of Odisha, India, effective after the retirement of the current Chief Secretary, Manoj Ahuja, on December 31, 2025. This appointment marks a historic moment as Ms. Garg becomes the first woman to hold this top bureaucratic position in the state. Currently serving as Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary to the Planning and Convergence Department and also in charge of the Water Resources Department, she is highly respected for her administrative capabilities and her successful implementation of development initiatives. She has earned the trust of both the previous and current political leadership through her hands-on approach and effective execution.

News Article:

Odisha Appoints Anu Garg as First Woman Chief Secretary

BHUBANESWAR, INDIA – December 25, 2025 – Anu Garg, a seasoned 1991-batch IAS officer, has been named the new Chief Secretary of Odisha, making her the first woman to hold the state’s top bureaucratic post. Her appointment follows the retirement of current Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, scheduled for December 31, 2025.

Garg, who currently serves as Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary to the Planning and Convergence Department and also heads the Water Resources Department, is known for her effective leadership and successful implementation of development projects. She gained recognition for her work under the previous Naveen Patnaik government and has continued to earn the confidence of the new Bharatiya Janata Party government through her hands-on approach and policy guidance.

“Ms. Garg’s extensive experience and proven track record make her an ideal choice to lead the state bureaucracy,” said a government official. “Her expertise in key areas like Water Resources and Planning and Convergence will be invaluable as Odisha continues its development trajectory.”

Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Garg holds a Master’s degree in Sociology and has headed key departments, including Health, Water Resources, and Planning and Convergence, during her distinguished career. Her appointment is being hailed as a significant step forward for gender equality in Odisha’s government.

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