Bhubaneswar, June 29, 2025 – Senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Saswata Mishra, a 1996-batch stalwart, has been appointed as the Principal Secretary to Odisha’s Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career. This appointment, announced by the Odisha Government’s General Administration & Public Grievance Department, comes in the wake of an administrative reshuffle following the tragic Saradhabali stampede during the Rath Yatra in Puri. Mishra, already serving as the Principal Secretary of the Finance Department and Chairman of the Industrial Development Corporation of Odisha (IDCO), will retain these roles alongside his new responsibilities, showcasing his ability to handle multiple high-stakes portfolios with finesse.
Early Life and Education
While specific details about Saswata Mishra’s early life, such as his date of birth or hometown, remain limited in public records, his academic and professional journey speaks volumes about his dedication and intellect. As a 1996-batch IAS officer of the Odisha cadre, Mishra likely underwent rigorous academic training, typical of those who clear the highly competitive Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination. His career trajectory suggests a strong foundation in governance, economics, and public administration, enabling him to navigate complex bureaucratic landscapes with ease.
A Distinguished Career in Public Service
Saswata Mishra’s career in the Indian Administrative Service spans nearly three decades, during which he has held pivotal roles across various departments, earning a reputation for efficiency, integrity, and strategic foresight. His ability to manage critical portfolios has made him a trusted figure in Odisha’s administrative framework.
Key Roles Before the Current Appointment
- Principal Secretary, Finance Department (2024-Present): Mishra was appointed Principal Secretary of the Finance Department in July 2024, a role that placed him at the helm of Odisha’s fiscal policy and economic planning. His leadership in this department has been instrumental in shaping the state’s financial strategies during a period of economic recovery and growth.
- Chairman, Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission (OSSSC): Mishra served as Chairman of OSSSC, overseeing recruitment processes for various government positions, ensuring transparency and meritocracy in public service appointments.
- Principal Secretary to the Governor of Odisha: Prior to his current roles, Mishra served as Principal Secretary to the Governor, a position that required diplomatic acumen and close coordination with the state’s highest constitutional office.
- Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Higher Education Department (2019): In 2019, Mishra was appointed Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Higher Education Department, where he played a key role in advancing Odisha’s educational infrastructure and policies.
- Principal Secretary, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) Department (2022): Mishra took on additional responsibilities in the MSME sector, contributing to the state’s efforts to bolster small-scale industries and entrepreneurship, critical for Odisha’s economic diversification.
- Chairman, IDCO: As Chairman of the Industrial Development Corporation of Odisha, Mishra has been a driving force behind industrial growth, facilitating investments and infrastructure development in the state.
Additional Responsibilities
Unlike most Principal Secretaries to the Chief Minister, who typically focus solely on their advisory role to the CM, Mishra has been entrusted with retaining his existing roles in the Finance Department and IDCO. This rare combination of responsibilities underscores the government’s confidence in his multitasking abilities and strategic vision. His continued leadership in these areas ensures continuity in Odisha’s financial and industrial policies while he advises the Chief Minister on critical governance matters.
Appointment as Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister
The appointment of Saswata Mishra as Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on June 29, 2025, fills a vacancy that had persisted since May 2, 2025, when Nikunja Bihari Dhal was reassigned to the Union Government. The decision comes at a critical juncture, following the Saradhabali stampede during the Rath Yatra, which prompted a significant administrative overhaul to restore public trust and ensure the smooth conduct of subsequent rituals.
As Principal Secretary to the CM, Mishra serves as a key advisor, coordinating between the Chief Minister’s office and various government departments. His role involves shaping policy decisions, overseeing administrative functions, and ensuring the effective implementation of the government’s agenda. Given his extensive experience, Mishra is well-positioned to bridge the gap between policy formulation and execution, particularly in a state like Odisha, which balances rapid industrial growth with cultural and social priorities.
Challenges and Expectations
Mishra’s appointment comes at a time when Odisha is navigating complex challenges, including post-Rath Yatra administrative reforms, economic recovery, and industrial expansion. His role in the Finance Department places him at the forefront of managing the state’s budget, while his leadership at IDCO requires fostering industrial investments to boost employment and infrastructure. As Principal Secretary to the CM, he will also play a pivotal role in advising on key initiatives, such as the state’s response to recent tragedies and its ambitious employment goals, including the Chief Minister’s announcement of 40,000 job opportunities in the current financial year.
Mishra’s ability to juggle these high-profile roles will be closely watched, as his performance could set a precedent for how senior bureaucrats manage multiple portfolios. His strategic insights and administrative expertise will be crucial in supporting Chief Minister Majhi’s vision for a prosperous and inclusive Odisha.
Contributions to Odisha’s Development
Throughout his career, Saswata Mishra has contributed significantly to Odisha’s administrative and developmental landscape. His tenure in the Higher Education Department helped strengthen the state’s academic framework, while his leadership in the MSME sector supported small businesses, a vital component of Odisha’s economy. As Principal Secretary of the Finance Department, Mishra has been instrumental in ensuring fiscal discipline and promoting sustainable economic growth. His role at IDCO has furthered Odisha’s industrial ambitions, attracting investments and creating opportunities for economic diversification.
Mishra’s appointment as Principal Secretary to the CM is seen as a strategic move to leverage his vast experience in governance and policy-making. His ability to navigate complex administrative challenges while maintaining a focus on development makes him a key figure in Odisha’s bureaucratic ecosystem.
Personal Traits and Leadership Style
While public records provide limited insight into Mishra’s personal life, his professional demeanor is widely regarded as disciplined, methodical, and results-oriented. Colleagues and peers describe him as a bureaucrat who combines analytical rigor with a pragmatic approach to problem-solving. His ability to manage multiple high-stakes roles simultaneously reflects his exceptional work ethic and organizational skills.
Mishra’s appointment to such a critical position also highlights his reputation for integrity and competence. In a role that demands close coordination with the Chief Minister and other senior officials, his diplomatic skills and ability to build consensus will be invaluable.
Looking Ahead
As Saswata Mishra steps into his new role as Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, all eyes will be on his ability to steer Odisha through its current challenges and opportunities. His multifaceted responsibilities in finance, industry, and now the CM’s office position him as a linchpin in the state’s administrative machinery. With Odisha aiming to balance economic growth, cultural preservation, and social welfare, Mishra’s leadership will be critical in shaping the state’s future.
His appointment is not just a testament to his individual capabilities but also a reflection of the Odisha government’s trust in his ability to deliver results under pressure. As he embarks on this new chapter, Saswata Mishra remains a beacon of administrative excellence, poised to leave an indelible mark on Odisha’s governance landscape.
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