Amid urban push, term of key officer extended

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the extension of the central deputation tenure of Thara, a 1995-batch IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre.

According to an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on June 13, she will continue in the post till December 5, 2026, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

The extension has been granted through the continued temporary upgradation of the post, allowing her to remain in the position beyond the completion of her existing deputation term.

This extension has come at a time when the ministry is planning aggressively to adopt National Capital Region Planning Board’s (NCRPB’s) Regional Plan-2041.

Over a career spanning key assignments in both the Centre and state government, Thara has been closely associated with urban development, housing and governance. Her work has largely revolved around issues that directly affect city residents, ranging from urban infrastructure to the delivery of public services.

As Additional Secretary in the MoHUA, she has been involved in initiatives aimed at strengthening urban infrastructure and improving the quality of life in cities. The ministry plays a crucial role in shaping policies related to urban growth, housing and city management at a time when India’s urban centres continue to face increasing pressure for development.

The latest decision by the Centre signals its preference for administrative continuity in the ministry.