Utpal Kumar Singh Appointed as Sansad TV CEO

The Lok Sabha Secretary-General Utpal Kumar Singh, a former IAS officer, has been given additional charge as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sansad TV. Known for his administrative acumen and significant contributions to the Kedarnath redevelopment project, Singh brings with him decades of experience in both state and central governance. His appointment marks another crucial step in the strengthening of parliamentary communication through Sansad TV.

Early Life and Education

Utpal Kumar Singh, 65 years old, hails from Bihar. He pursued a Master’s degree in History from Delhi University and later enhanced his academic profile with a Master’s in Public Policy and Management from the Institute of Social Studies, The Hague, Netherlands.

His journey into public service began when he was appointed as the Sub-District Magistrate of Etawah in Uttar Pradesh, marking the start of a distinguished career in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) as part of the 1986 Uttarakhand cadre.

Major Contributions: Kedarnath Redevelopment

One of Singh’s most remarkable contributions was his role in the rebuilding of Kedarnath after the devastating 2013 floods. Along with Rudraprayag District Magistrate Mangesh Ghildiyal, Singh played a key role in the Kedarnath development project.

In 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for five major reconstruction projects at the Kedarpuri area, including the revered Kedarnath shrine. Singh’s dedication and efficiency earned him praise from the Prime Minister, who personally reviewed the progress of the projects during his visits.

Their work in Kedarnath was widely recognized as a model of disaster recovery and heritage preservation, leading both Singh and Ghildiyal to prestigious positions in governance.

Career in Uttarakhand and at the Centre

Chief Secretary of Uttarakhand

Singh was appointed as the Chief Secretary of Uttarakhand in October 2017, serving until his retirement in July 2020. During his tenure, he oversaw several developmental projects, administrative reforms, and infrastructure initiatives.

It was under his leadership that the Char Dham Highway Project—a crucial connectivity project for pilgrims—was challenged in the Supreme Court in 2019, sparking national debate on environmental and developmental concerns.

Service in the Centre

Before becoming Chief Secretary, Singh had served as Additional Secretary in the Union Ministry of Agriculture in 2012, contributing to policy-making at the national level.

In August 2020, shortly after his retirement, he was appointed as the Secretary of the Lok Sabha Secretariat, later being elevated to the position of Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha, the highest-ranking official in the lower house of Parliament.

Political and Administrative Associations

Throughout his career, Singh maintained a reputation as a man of few words and a disciplined administrator. He was known to be close to former Uttarakhand Chief Minister General B.C. Khanduri, serving as his Principal Secretary during the latter’s tenure.

He also held key portfolios between 2005 and 2012, including Home, Public Works, Energy, Tourism, and Higher Education in the Uttarakhand government. His accessibility and fair approach earned him respect from both political leaders and fellow bureaucrats.

Role in Sansad TV

As the new CEO of Sansad TV, Singh is expected to bring his vast experience in governance, administration, and public communication to strengthen the channel’s role in disseminating parliamentary proceedings and educational content. Sansad TV, created through the merger of Lok Sabha TV and Rajya Sabha TV, is a crucial platform for enhancing transparency, public awareness, and parliamentary outreach in India.

His appointment reflects the trust of the leadership in his ability to manage high-profile institutions, just as he effectively handled major projects in his IAS career.