K Vijayanand (1992 batch), with backing from TDP scion and state Minister Nara Lokesh, might pip other contenders.
Published Dec 27, 2024 | 12:00 PM ⚊ Updated Dec 27, 2024 | 12:00 PM
G Sai Prasad (1991 batch) and K Vijayanand (1992 batch).
As Andhra Pradesh seeks to make up for lost years in terms of development, will Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu opt for an administrative captain who could put the state on the path to progress?
This question is being debated in political and bureaucratic circles in the state, with just days left to appoint the new Chief Secretary for Andhra Pradesh.
There are clear signals that the incumbent, Neerabh Kumar Prasad, is unlikely to be given an extension beyond 31 December, the date of his superannuation.
Contrary to media speculation, two among the seven senior officers in the line-up — G Sai Prasad (1991 batch) and K Vijayanand (1992 batch) — appear to have emerged as the frontrunners.
The other five — Y Srilakshmi (1988), G Anantha Ramu (1990), Ajay Jain, Sumita Dawra and RP Sisodia (all three of the 1991 batch) — are reportedly not in the zone of consideration due to various reasons.
Even though Sai Prasad is senior, the one critical factor that could swing the decision in favour of Vijayanand is the immense backing he has from Minister Nara Lokesh, who is recognised by almost everyone in the government and the party as the second-in-command.
Sai Prasad, who has spent a considerable amount of time away from the state, belongs to the Kamma community.
It could be seen as an advantage, but also a disadvantage if Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who belongs to the same caste, prefers not to have an officer from his own community as the bureaucratic head.
According to sources, Vijayanand’s previous experience in heading both the Industries and Power departments has been highlighted to support his elevation to the top post. He used to work in association with Lokesh during the latter’s previous stint as minister between 2014 and 2019.
If appointments that have happened so far, including in the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), are any indication, a stamp of approval from Lokesh, widely seen as the future leader, is a must.
Apart from holding Information Technology (IT) and Human Resource Development (HRD) portfolios, Lokesh is said to be actively involved in shaping all key policies, particularly those relating to industries, energy and investments.
He is reportedly of the view that if the goals of the state government are to be achieved, it is important to have a bureaucrat head with the same thought process.
Those advocating for Vijayanand argue that, unlike Sai Prasad, the former spent all his time in Andhra Pradesh.
Within the TDP, there is a good section not favourably disposed towards Sai Prasad, the Special Chief Secretary (Water Resources). More importantly, Vijayanand, the Special Chief Secretary (Energy), belongs to a Backward Class (BC), and appointing him would send the right signal since the community has been the backbone of TDP since its formation.
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil.)
