Jammu: The central government has announced the appointment of Atal Dulloo, a 1988-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, as the new chief secretary of Jammu and Kashmir. 

Dulloo, currently serving as the secretary of the Department of Border Management under the Union home ministry, will assume office on December 1. This decision comes as the incumbent chief secretary, Arun Kumar Mehta, a 1988-batch AGMUT cadre officer, is set to retire on Thursday. Dulloo, known for his effective administration, previously held key roles in Jammu and Kashmir, including additional chief secretary and financial commissioner. 

His experience in managing the Covid pandemic in 2020 and 2021 showcased his leadership in enhancing health infrastructure and ensuring an ample supply of oxygen cylinders for patients in the Union Territory. 

Earlier this year, Dulloo was on central deputation as secretary, department of border management, before being repatriated to his parent cadre.

/BI