Nikunja Bihari Dhal is a 1993-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Odisha cadre, currently appointed as the Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India. He is set to assume full charge of the position following the retirement of his predecessor on 30 June 2025.
Education & Background
Nikunja Bihari Dhal joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1993. While his academic background is not publicly detailed, he has been recognized for his effective leadership across diverse administrative domains, particularly within the Odisha state government.
Career and Appointments
Odisha State Administration
Dhal has held several key roles in the Odisha government over the years. His notable appointments include:
- Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister of Odisha
- Chief Electoral Officer of Odisha, during the 2024 General and Assembly Elections
- Special Relief Commissioner, overseeing disaster management and revenue administration
- Additional Chief Secretary (Energy Department), where he managed critical infrastructure and regulatory affairs
His work in these capacities contributed to the state’s disaster preparedness, power sector reforms, and electoral integrity.
Central Government Appointment
On 18 April 2025, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved his deputation to the central government as Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs. In May 2025, he was formally relieved from his state assignments and appointed as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Ministry, in preparation for assuming full charge as Secretary on 1 July 2025.
Key Responsibilities and Focus Areas
As Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Dhal is responsible for facilitating the government’s legislative business in Parliament. His role includes:
- Coordinating between ministries and both Houses of Parliament
- Managing parliamentary schedules, question hours, and legislative prioritization
- Supporting policy processes requiring legislative approval
- Promoting awareness and training regarding parliamentary procedures across ministries
Given his background in elections, governance, and disaster response, Dhal is expected to bring structured, process-oriented leadership to the ministry.
Summary
Nikunja Bihari Dhal is a senior IAS officer with a distinguished record in public administration, particularly in governance, elections, and disaster management. His appointment as Secretary in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs marks a transition to a pivotal central role where he will oversee the coordination of the government’s legislative agenda and interface with Parliament.