Ravindra Telang is a 1995-batch Indian Administrative Service officer of the Sikkim cadre. He assumed office as the Chief Secretary of Sikkim on 1 January 2025, succeeding V. B. Pathak upon his retirement in December 2024.
Education & Background
Ravindra Telang holds a Bachelor of Technology degree from Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, and a Master of Technology from IIT Kanpur. He joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1995 after clearing the civil services examination on his second attempt.
Career and Appointments
Telang began his administrative career as Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Chungthang, North Sikkim. He later served as District Magistrate in various districts. Over his career, he has held several key positions in the state government, including:
- Secretary and Principal Secretary in the departments of Education, Home, Rural Development, Health, and Tourism
- Additional Chief Secretary (Education and Home)
- Appointed Chief Secretary of Sikkim in late 2024
Key Initiatives and Focus Areas
As Chief Secretary, Ravindra Telang has focused on:
- Strengthening rural governance using digital tools and improving citizen engagement
- Advancing eco-tourism while ensuring environmental sustainability
- Reforming state-funded education, including staff regularization and digital infrastructure
- Enhancing disaster preparedness, considering the state’s ecological sensitivity
- Improving infrastructure and public service delivery in remote and tribal areas
Recognition & Leadership Style
Telang is known for his data-driven approach to administration and a preference for concise, action-oriented communication. He has received several recognitions, including:
- Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration
- Sikkim State Award for Meritorious Service
He is widely regarded as a calm and effective leader who blends policy innovation with grassroots implementation.
Summary
Ravindra Telang is a senior IAS officer known for his technical background and administrative depth. As Chief Secretary of Sikkim, he plays a central role in guiding the state’s governance through reforms in education, sustainability, and citizen-centric development. His career reflects a balance of central policies and local needs, grounded in on-the-ground experience and strategic leadership.