VK Pandian Appointed Chairman of Odisha’s 5T Initiatives in Cabinet Minister Rank After Voluntary Retirement

VK Pandian was swiftly appointed as the Chairman of 5T transformational initiatives in Odisha, holding a rank equivalent to a Cabinet Minister. This decision came just one day after his voluntary retirement request was accepted. In his new role, Pandian will report directly to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The official announcement, issued by the general administration and public grievance department, stated, “V K Pandian is hereby appointed as Chairman 5T (Transformational Initiatives) and Nabin Odisha in the rank of Cabinet Minister.” This appointment has conclusively resolved any speculations about Pandian’s future path after his retirement.

Pandian, a 2000 batch IAS officer, embarked on his career as Dharmagarh sub-collector and subsequently served as a Collector in various districts. In 2011, he joined the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) and remained there for the last 12 years, functioning as the private secretary to the Chief Minister of Odisha. He assumed the role of 5T secretary in 2019.