In a landmark decision, the Odisha government has appointed Manoj Kumar Parida, a distinguished retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1986 batch, as the new Chief Information Commissioner of the Odisha Right to Information (RTI) Commission. Effective April 9, 2025, this appointment underscores Parida’s remarkable career, which spans over three decades of exemplary public service. From navigating the complexities of India’s bureaucratic landscape to championing transparency in his post-retirement roles, Parida’s journey is a compelling narrative of dedication, leadership, and integrity. This engaging biography delves into his life, career, and the significance of his new role, offering a comprehensive look at a man poised to shape Odisha’s governance future.
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Early Life and Education: The Foundation of a Civil Servant
Born in the early 1960s, Manoj Kumar Parida’s ascent to one of India’s most prestigious civil services began with a solid academic foundation. While specific details of his early education remain private, it’s reasonable to infer that Parida excelled academically, a hallmark of those who succeed in the highly competitive Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination. In 1986, he cleared this rigorous exam, earning a coveted spot in the IAS as part of the Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre. This achievement marked the start of a career dedicated to serving India’s diverse regions, setting the stage for his future contributions to public administration.
Parida’s entry into the IAS at a young age reflects not only his intellectual prowess but also his commitment to public welfare a trait that would define his professional journey. The AGMUT cadre, known for its unique mandate across multiple states and Union Territories, offered him a broad canvas to hone his administrative skills, preparing him for the multifaceted roles he would later undertake.
A Stellar Career in the IAS: Leadership Across Borders
Manoj Kumar Parida’s career in the IAS is a testament to his versatility and leadership. As an officer of the AGMUT cadre, he served in various capacities across India’s northeastern states and Union Territories, tackling a range of administrative challenges with finesse. His postings exposed him to diverse cultural, political, and economic contexts, sharpening his ability to adapt and govern effectively.
One of the highlights of his career was his tenure as Chief Secretary of Puducherry, a role that placed him at the apex of the Union Territory’s administrative hierarchy. As Chief Secretary, Parida was responsible for overseeing the entire governmental machinery, ensuring the seamless execution of policies and programs. His leadership in this position earned him accolades for his strategic vision and ability to foster efficient governance.
Another significant milestone was his role as adviser to the Chandigarh Administrator, where he navigated the complexities of urban administration in one of India’s most planned cities. This position demanded a keen understanding of governance in a Union Territory context, further showcasing Parida’s capability to handle high-stakes responsibilities. These roles, among others, solidified his reputation as a seasoned administrator with a knack for solving intricate governance puzzles.
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Post-Retirement Contributions: A Continued Legacy of Service
Retirement from the IAS did not mark the end of Parida’s commitment to public service. In July 2022, he took on the role of Insurance Ombudsman in Bhubaneswar, a position focused on resolving insurance-related disputes and ensuring fairness for policyholders. This role highlighted his dedication to transparency and accountability values that would prove instrumental in his next chapter. During his tenure, Parida brought his administrative expertise to bear, addressing grievances with a focus on justice and efficiency, further cementing his legacy as a servant of the people.
His work as Insurance Ombudsman was more than a post-retirement assignment; it was a bridge to his current role, reflecting his alignment with principles of openness and citizen empowerment. This experience positioned him as an ideal candidate for the Chief Information Commissioner post, where transparency is paramount.
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Appointment as Chief Information Commissioner: A New Era for Odisha
On April 9, 2025, Manoj Kumar Parida was appointed as the Chief Information Commissioner of the Odisha RTI Commission, a role that places him at the forefront of promoting transparent governance in the state. The Odisha Information Commission, established in 2006 under the Right to Information Act, 2005, serves as a critical institution in upholding citizens’ right to access information from public authorities. As its head, Parida will oversee appeals, investigate complaints, and ensure compliance with RTI regulations, making him a pivotal figure in Odisha’s accountability framework.
The RTI Act is a transformative piece of legislation, empowering citizens to demand transparency and hold governments accountable. Parida’s extensive experience in public administration, coupled with his recent work in ensuring fairness as Insurance Ombudsman, makes him uniquely suited for this role. Upon his appointment, he reportedly expressed his vision, stating, “Transparency is the cornerstone of good governance, and I am honored to lead the Odisha Information Commission in its mission to empower citizens with the right to information.” His leadership is expected to bolster the commission’s efforts, fostering a culture of openness in Odisha’s public institutions.
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A Legacy of Integrity and Impact
Manoj Kumar Parida’s journey from a determined young IAS officer in 1986 to the Chief Information Commissioner of Odisha in 2025 is a story of unwavering dedication to public service. His career reflects a rare blend of administrative skill, adaptability, and a deep commitment to ethical governance. Whether steering Puducherry as Chief Secretary, advising Chandigarh’s administration, or resolving grievances as Insurance Ombudsman, Parida has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead with integrity and purpose.
As he steps into this new role, Parida brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the Odisha RTI Commission. His appointment signals a promising future for the state’s transparency efforts, with expectations high that he will strengthen the commission’s role as a guardian of citizens’ rights. Parida’s legacy, built over decades of service, serves as an inspiration to aspiring civil servants and a reminder of the transformative power of committed leadership.