By THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM
Tarun Kumar Pithode, an officer of the 2009 batch of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has recently assumed the role of the full-time Member Secretary of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas. This appointment underscores his commitment to environmental governance and his exemplary service record.

Early Career and Technical Foundation

Before entering the civil services, Tarun Pithode laid a strong foundation in technology. He began his professional journey as a software engineer with GE India, where he honed his analytical and problem-solving skills. Subsequently, he served in the Indian Railways as an Indian Railway Service of Signal Engineers (IRSSE) officer, gaining valuable experience in infrastructure and operations.

Administrative Journey in Madhya Pradesh

Tarun Pithode’s transition to the IAS marked the beginning of a distinguished administrative career. In Madhya Pradesh, he has held several key positions, demonstrating his versatility and leadership:

District Collector, Rajgarh: As the District Collector, he focused on governance reforms and digital initiatives, including the implementation of sustainable Wi-Fi models.

Collector, Bhopal: In Bhopal, he managed urban development projects and coordinated disaster response efforts.

Managing Director, MPSCSC: At the Madhya Pradesh State Civil Supplies Corporation, he worked on streamlining public distribution systems and enhancing supply chain efficiencies.

Central Government Assignments

Tarun Pithode’s expertise led to his deputation to the central government:

Director, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC): He contributed to environmental policies and climate action initiatives.

Joint Secretary, MoEFCC: Empaneled for the position in 2025, he played a pivotal role in national climate strategies and international environmental collaborations.

Current Role at CAQM

In October 2025, Tarun Pithode was appointed as the Member Secretary of CAQM, succeeding Arvind Kumar Nautiyal. In this capacity, he is responsible for overseeing air quality management efforts in the NCR and adjoining areas, focusing on policy coordination, enforcement, and stakeholder engagement.

Tarun Kumar Pithode’s career reflects a blend of technical acumen, administrative excellence, and a steadfast commitment to public service. His journey from a software engineer to a senior IAS officer exemplifies the impact of dedicated civil servants in shaping India’s governance landscape.