New Delhi: In a significant administrative development, two senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers from Gujarat—Mona Khandhar and Aarti Kanwar—have been appointed to important positions in the Central Government, reinforcing Gujarat’s presence in national policymaking.
Mona Khandhar, a 1996-batch IAS officer, has been appointed as Additional Secretary in the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment. Known for her extensive experience in finance and governance within Gujarat, she is expected to play a key role in shaping policies related to social welfare, inclusion, and empowerment at the national level.
Meanwhile, Aarti Kanwar, a 2001-batch IAS officer, has taken charge as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Textiles. She previously served as the State Tax Commissioner in Gujarat and brings with her strong administrative expertise. In her new role, she will contribute to policy decisions impacting India’s vital textile sector.
Both appointments are at the Additional Secretary level, marking a high-ranking position in the Government of India. Their elevation highlights the growing influence and contribution of Gujarat cadre officers in central administration.
These strategic postings are expected to strengthen governance in their respective ministries while also reflecting the Centre’s trust in experienced officers from the state.
