Pankaj Agrawal is a 1992-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, currently serving as Secretary, Ministry of Power, Government of India. He assumed the position in July 2023, following a senior-level administrative reshuffle.
Education & Background
Publicly available records emphasize Agrawal’s professional roles; specific details regarding his academic background are not widely documented.
Career and Appointments
Early and Central Government Roles
Prior to his appointment as Power Secretary, Pankaj Agrawal served as Additional Secretary and Director General (Acquisition) in the Ministry of Defence, where he oversaw strategic procurement processes and major capital acquisitions.
Secretary, Ministry of Power
Agrawal was appointed as Secretary, Ministry of Power with effect from 1 July 2023, succeeding the outgoing secretary upon superannuation.
In October 2024, he was given additional charge of Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, until a full-time appointment was made, reflecting the government’s confidence in his leadership across key infrastructure ministries.
Key Initiatives or Focus Areas
- Conducted a detailed review of the 1320 MW Khurja Super Thermal Power Project, assessing key milestones and ensuring readiness for commissioning. This reflects the ministry’s continued emphasis on expanding power generation capacity.
- Inspected the 2400 MW Tehri Hydro Complex in October 2023, highlighting his focus on hydropower and renewable energy integration within the national grid.
- Participated in national campaigns such as Swachhata Pakhwada, supporting cleanliness, awareness, and sustainability drives within the power sector.
As Power Secretary, Agrawal is engaged in strengthening grid infrastructure, modernizing electricity transmission systems, facilitating private sector participation, and advancing clean energy initiatives aligned with India’s climate goals.
Summary
Pankaj Agrawal is a senior civil servant with over three decades of experience in key areas of governance, including defence procurement and energy policy. As Secretary (Power), he oversees the strategic development of India’s power infrastructure, playing a central role in the country’s energy transition. His additional charge of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways further demonstrates his broad administrative capability and trusted leadership.