Shri Manoj Pant, a seasoned Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1991 West Bengal cadre, stands as a towering figure in the state’s administrative landscape. Appointed as the Chief Secretary of West Bengal in August 2024, Pant has quickly emerged as a pivotal force in steering the state through a complex tapestry of challenges and opportunities. Based in Kolkata, the vibrant capital of West Bengal, his tenure has been nothing short of eventful—marked by legal battles, economic initiatives, healthcare crises, and disaster management efforts. This biography offers a detailed, engaging, and original exploration of Pant’s journey, spotlighting his multifaceted contributions to the state’s governance and development.
A New Chapter: Appointment as Chief Secretary
In August 2024, Shri Manoj Pant ascended to the prestigious role of Chief Secretary of West Bengal, a position that places him at the apex of the state’s bureaucratic hierarchy. Announced through a widely circulated post by ANI on X on August 31, 2024, his appointment signaled a new era of leadership for the state. As Chief Secretary, Pant shoulders the immense responsibility of coordinating government departments, advising Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and ensuring the seamless execution of policies that impact millions of lives. His elevation to this role reflects decades of dedication and expertise honed over his illustrious career in the IAS, though specific details of his early postings remain less documented. What is clear, however, is that Pant’s leadership has brought a dynamic energy to West Bengal’s administration, setting the stage for transformative governance.
Navigating Legal Waters: The OBC Certificate Controversy
One of the defining moments of Pant’s tenure came in March 2025, when he was summoned by the Calcutta High Court in a high-stakes legal matter. The case revolved around the cancellation of Other Backward Classes (OBC) certificates, an issue that had stirred significant administrative and political ripples. Justices Tapobrata Chakraborty and Rajasekhar Mantha directed Pant to appear in person, seeking an explanation for the state’s apparent failure to comply with prior court orders. This summons thrust Pant into the spotlight, showcasing his role as a key figure bridging judicial expectations and administrative realities. Far from a mere formality, his involvement in this case underscored the delicate balance he must maintain—ensuring legal accountability while steering the state’s policy machinery. It was a test of his acumen and composure, qualities that have come to define his leadership style.
Championing Economic Growth: The Amazon Partnership
Beyond the courtroom, Pant has proven himself a visionary in fostering West Bengal’s economic ambitions. In February 2025, he played a prominent role in a landmark event—the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Amazon and the West Bengal government’s Department of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Textiles. Held during the Bengal Global Business Summit in Kolkata, this agreement aimed to empower local MSMEs by equipping them with the tools and training needed to sell their products on Amazon’s global platform. With Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee by his side, Pant’s presence at the signing ceremony highlighted his commitment to economic innovation. This initiative promises to elevate West Bengal’s small businesses onto the world stage, reflecting Pant’s forward-thinking approach to blending digital technology with traditional enterprise—a move that could redefine the state’s economic future.
Healing a Divided Sector: The RG Kar Medical Crisis
Perhaps the most emotionally charged chapter of Pant’s tenure has been his response to the healthcare crisis sparked by the tragic rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The incident ignited widespread outrage, with junior doctors launching protests and hunger strikes to demand justice, better security, and systemic healthcare reforms. Pant emerged as a central figure in addressing this unrest, engaging directly with the medical community to bridge the gap between their grievances and administrative action.
In October 2024, he held multiple meetings with representatives from doctors’ associations, including the Indian Medical Association (IMA), striving to find common ground. His hands-on approach peaked when he visited the protest site at Esplanade, where junior doctors were fasting unto death. In a poignant moment, Pant used his mobile phone to relay a direct appeal from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, urging the doctors to end their strike. Though these efforts did not immediately resolve the deadlock, they showcased Pant’s dedication to dialogue and his willingness to step into the fray. His empathetic yet pragmatic stance has positioned him as a mediator in one of the state’s most pressing social challenges, highlighting his role as a leader who listens as much as he leads.
Facing Nature’s Fury: Cyclone Dana Response
Pant’s leadership extends beyond urban governance to the realm of disaster management, as evidenced by his response to Cyclone Dana in October 2024. As the cyclone loomed over West Bengal’s coastal districts, threatening lives and livelihoods, Pant joined Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at the state secretariat, Nabanna, to oversee preparations and monitor developments. His active involvement ensured that the administration remained proactive—coordinating evacuations, relief efforts, and real-time updates to minimize the storm’s impact. This hands-on approach during a natural calamity reflects Pant’s versatility and his ability to pivot from policy-making to crisis management with equal efficacy. It’s a testament to his resolve to protect West Bengal’s citizens, no matter the challenge.
A Legacy in the Making
As of March 2025, Shri Manoj Pant continues to serve as West Bengal’s Chief Secretary, his tenure a whirlwind of activity and impact. From courtroom appearances to economic summits, protest negotiations to cyclone vigilance, Pant has demonstrated a rare blend of resilience, adaptability, and vision. While much of his early career remains a quieter prelude to his current role, his recent contributions paint a vivid picture of a leader deeply invested in his state’s progress.
Pant’s journey is far from over. As West Bengal faces new hurdles and opportunities, his steady hand at the helm promises to guide the state toward stability and growth. Whether fostering global trade for small businesses, advocating for healthcare reforms, or safeguarding communities from natural disasters, Shri Manoj Pant IAS embodies the essence of a modern civil servant—one who rises to meet the demands of a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape.