Shri Rajeev Verma, an esteemed IAS officer from the 1992 batch of the AGMUT cadre, stands as a beacon of dedication and innovation in India’s civil services. Currently serving as the Chief Secretary of Chandigarh since January 2024, Verma has carved an illustrious career spanning over three decades. From his humble beginnings in Uttar Pradesh to steering Chandigarh toward a future of smart and sustainable governance, his journey is one of resilience, intellect, and unwavering commitment to public service. This biography delves deep into his life, education, career milestones, and his ambitious vision for Chandigarh, offering a dynamic and engaging portrait of a remarkable administrator.
Early Life and Education: The Making of a Leader
Born on December 12, 1966, in the culturally rich state of Uttar Pradesh, Rajeev Verma grew up in an environment that instilled in him the values of discipline and service. His early years were marked by a curiosity for learning and a drive to excel, traits that would define his future. Verma pursued his higher education at one of India’s premier institutions, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee. There, he earned a degree in Computer Science, a field that was rapidly gaining prominence in the late 1980s. Not content with just a bachelor’s degree, he went on to complete an MTech, showcasing his passion for technology and its potential to transform lives.
His academic foundation in computer science would later become a cornerstone of his administrative approach, enabling him to champion digital governance and smart city initiatives. Verma’s time at IIT Roorkee not only sharpened his technical skills but also honed his ability to think strategically—qualities that would propel him through the rigorous Civil Services Examination.
Stepping into Civil Services: The 1992 Milestone
At the age of 25, Rajeev Verma achieved a significant milestone by clearing the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 1992—one of the most competitive exams in India. His success was no fluke; it was the result of meticulous preparation, a sharp intellect, and an unrelenting work ethic. Assigned to the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories) cadre, Verma embarked on a career that would see him serve in some of the most challenging and diverse regions of the country.
Joining the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) marked the beginning of a journey dedicated to nation-building. His early years in the service were spent mastering the intricacies of governance, a period that laid the groundwork for the impactful roles he would later assume.
A Stellar Career: Key Roles and Contributions
Rajeev Verma’s career is a tapestry of diverse assignments across critical sectors such as finance, urban development, health, transport, and defense. Each role he undertook added a new layer to his expertise, making him a versatile and dynamic administrator.
Early Postings and Foundational Experience
In his initial years, Verma served in the ministries of Defence and Finance, where he gained invaluable insights into policy-making and resource management. These postings exposed him to the complexities of national administration and sharpened his ability to navigate bureaucratic challenges.
Principal Secretary & Commissioner in New Delhi
From 2018 to 2022, Verma held the pivotal role of Principal Secretary & Commissioner of Finance/Revenue in New Delhi. Tasked with overseeing the financial health of the national capital, he introduced measures to enhance revenue collection, improve fiscal transparency, and streamline tax administration. His tenure was marked by a focus on accountability and efficiency, earning him accolades from peers and policymakers alike.
Prior to this, between 2017 and 2018, Verma served as the Principal Commissioner of Housing and Urban Affairs at the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). Here, he tackled the pressing issues of urban sprawl and housing shortages, spearheading projects that improved infrastructure and living conditions in Delhi. His contributions during this period underscored his knack for balancing development with sustainability.
Chief Secretary of Puducherry
In April 2022, Verma took on the role of Chief Secretary of Puducherry, a position he held until January 2024. During his nearly two-year tenure, he prioritized administrative reforms and development initiatives, aiming to elevate the union territory’s governance standards. His leadership fostered collaboration between departments, resulting in tangible improvements in public services and infrastructure.
Chief Secretary of Chandigarh: A New Chapter
In January 2024, Rajeev Verma was appointed as the Adviser to the Administrator of Chandigarh, a role equivalent to Chief Secretary. This posting came after the position had remained vacant since October 2023, following the retirement of his predecessor, Dharam Pal. Verma’s appointment was a testament to his exceptional track record and the trust placed in him to lead Chandigarh into a new era.
Upon taking charge, Verma expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I have not been to Chandigarh before, but I am excited about my new role. I have just received the orders.” His fresh perspective and proactive mindset quickly set the tone for his tenure. Within hours of assuming office, he convened meetings with secretaries and department heads, laying out his roadmap for the city.
Vision for Chandigarh: Smart, Clean, and Corruption-Free
Verma’s vision for Chandigarh is ambitious yet grounded in practicality. Drawing from his technological expertise and administrative experience, he has outlined three key pillars:
- Smart City Leadership: Verma aims to transform Chandigarh into a pioneer of smart city initiatives, leveraging digital tools to enhance governance, traffic management, and citizen services.
- Cleanliness and Sustainability: He is determined to make Chandigarh the cleanest city in India while aligning its development with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Transparent Governance: Emphasizing a corruption-free administration, Verma has vowed to ensure that departments interacting with the public operate with integrity and efficiency.
His goals resonate with the Prime Minister’s Vision 2047, positioning Chandigarh as a model for urban excellence. Verma’s hands-on approach and clear priorities have already sparked optimism among residents and officials alike.
Personal Life: A Balance of Duty and Family
Behind the accomplished administrator is a man deeply rooted in family values. Rajeev Verma is married to Rachna Verma, and together they have navigated the demands of their respective careers while nurturing a strong family bond. Their ability to maintain this equilibrium serves as an inspiring example of how public servants can harmonize professional rigor with personal fulfillment.
Legacy and Future Impact
Shri Rajeev Verma’s journey—from a tech-savvy student at IIT Roorkee to the Chief Secretary of Chandigarh—is a compelling narrative of growth and service. His career reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence, whether it’s modernizing urban landscapes, strengthening financial systems, or envisioning a smarter future for Chandigarh. As he continues to shape the union territory’s trajectory, Verma’s legacy is poised to inspire countless aspiring civil servants.
With his unique blend of technical acumen, administrative prowess, and a people-centric approach, Rajeev Verma is not just a bureaucrat—he is a visionary leader crafting a brighter tomorrow for Chandigarh and beyond.