IAS Vinod Kumar Gunjiyal Assumes Charge as the Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar

In preparation for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections in October-November 2025, the Election Commission has appointed IAS officer Vinod Kumar Gunjiyal, a 2007-batch officer of the Bihar cadre, as the new Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Bihar. Known for his administrative acumen and diverse departmental experience, Gunjiyal brings with him a strong governance track

Why in the News?

The Election Commission of India has appointed IAS Vinod Kumar Gunjiyal as the new Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Bihar ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections, replacing H R Srinivas.

About the Appointment

• New CEO of Bihar: IAS Vinod Kumar Gunjiyal
• Appointed by: Election Commission of India
• Replaces: H R Srinivas, a 1996-batch IAS officer
• Objective: To ensure free, fair, and efficient elections in Bihar in October-November 2025

Background of Vinod Kumar Gunjiyal

• Batch & Cadre: 2007-batch IAS officer, Bihar cadre
• Educational Qualification: Graduate in Mechanical Engineering
• Promoted to the Super Time Scale in Bihar administration

Key Roles Previously Held

• Secretary: Prohibition, Excise & Registration Department
• Focused on enhancing regulatory efficiency and administrative discipline
• Director: Animal Husbandry Department and Fisheries Directorate
• Contributed to livestock and fisheries development
• Focus on sectoral growth and rural livelihood enhancement

Role and Responsibilities as CEO

• Supervises electoral operations across the state
• Ensures elections are conducted in a transparent and impartial manner
• Coordinates with the Election Commission of India, local administration, and political stakeholders