(THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM) by Abul Hasan When the Government of India approved a one-year extension of service for Anurag Jain, the Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh, on 28 August 2025, it was more than just an administrative decision. It was recognition of a distinguished career marked by academic brilliance, administrative acumen, and reform-oriented leadership. Jain, a 1989-batch IAS officer, continues to serve as the 35th Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh, bringing with him decades of experience in both state and central governance.

Born on 11 August 1965 in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, Anurag Jain displayed academic excellence from an early age. He completed his B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur in 1986, securing the second rank in his batch—a rare feat that showcased his intellectual sharpness and analytical skills. Driven by a deeper calling to public service, he chose to pursue the civil services, successfully clearing the UPSC examination in 1988.

Later in his career, he broadened his knowledge of governance by completing an MA in Public Administration from the Maxwell School, USA—an institution renowned globally for nurturing public policy leaders. This blend of engineering precision and administrative insight became a hallmark of Jain’s governance style.

Jain began his administrative career as Assistant Collector in Sagar in June 1990. Over the years, he held some of the most crucial district-level and departmental responsibilities. He served as Collector in Mandla, Mandsaur, and Bhopal—districts with diverse challenges ranging from tribal development to urban governance.

He later rose to senior positions in the state bureaucracy, serving as Secretary, Principal Secretary, and Additional Chief Secretary in various departments. In 2005, he was appointed as Secretary to then Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, where he played a key role in policy execution and governance reforms.

Known for his result-oriented approach, Jain has often been credited with introducing efficiency and accountability in administrative systems.

Central Deputation and National-Level Roles

Anurag Jain’s career also includes a long and illustrious tenure at the Centre, where he held several key assignments. Between 2011 and 2015, he served in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) as Joint Secretary, a posting considered highly prestigious and impactful. His contribution to e-governance earned him the Web Ratna Award, highlighting his commitment to digital transformation in public administration.He also served as the Vice-Chairman of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA).

He also served as the Secretary in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, where he played a vital role in shaping infrastructure and connectivity projects across the country. Additionally, he held the post of Acting Chairman and Managing Director of the Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank).

His ability to deliver results in both state and central assignments has made him one of the most respected IAS officers in the country.

Leadership as Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh

In October 2024, Jain assumed charge as the Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh, succeeding Veera Rana. His appointment came at a critical juncture when the state was grappling with mounting financial challenges, Jain’s vast experience in financial management and central coordination has been seen as crucial for steering the state through this crisis.

Under his leadership, emphasis has been placed on administrative reforms, faster implementation of welfare schemes, and improved centre-state relations. His long years of service in Delhi have strengthened his ability to advocate Madhya Pradesh’s interests effectively before the central government.

A Multifaceted Personality

Beyond his administrative persona, Anurag Jain has a keen interest in sports. A passionate tennis player, he has won 11 national awards and has represented Madhya Pradesh in cricket tournaments. His engagement in sports reflects his belief in balance, discipline, and teamwork—qualities that also shine through in his governance style.

Looking Ahead

Anurag Jain’s one-year extension as Chief Secretary signals continuity, stability, and confidence in his ability to guide Madhya Pradesh during a challenging economic phase. With his proven record in both state and national administration, he is expected to focus on strengthening fiscal management, improving governance delivery, and accelerating development schemes.

For Madhya Pradesh, Jain’s stewardship represents not only seasoned leadership but also the promise of reforms that can shape the state’s administrative and developmental trajectory in the years to come.