In a recent bureaucratic reshuffle, V. L. Kantha Rao has been appointed as the new Secretary of the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. This move is part of a larger set of changes within the central government, impacting several key positions.

Kantha Rao, a 1992 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Mines. His responsibilities there included overseeing the nation's mining operations and contributing to policy decisions related to the sector.

The reshuffle also involves other significant appointments. Debashree Mukherjee, the outgoing Secretary of the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, will now take over as the Secretary for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. Rajit Punhani, who previously held the position of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Secretary, has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Piyush Goyal, formerly the CEO of NATGRID under the Home Ministry, will now assume the role of Secretary, Ministry of Mines, replacing Kantha Rao. Vijay Kumar has been appointed as Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

These changes at the top levels of various ministries and organizations indicate the government's focus on streamlining operations and bringing in fresh perspectives to key sectors. The appointment of V. L. Kantha Rao as Water Resources Secretary is particularly noteworthy, given the critical importance of water resource management for India's agricultural, industrial, and environmental sustainability. His experience in the Ministry of Mines, dealing with resource allocation and regulatory frameworks, could prove valuable in addressing the challenges facing the water resources sector.