New Delhi, India |: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved a one-year extension of the central deputation tenure of Shreya Bhardwaj, a 2012-batch Indian Ordnance Factories Service (IOFS) officer, allowing her to continue serving as Deputy Secretary in the Department of Higher Education until December 25, 2027, or until further orders, whichever comes first.
The decision was formalized through an Office Memorandum issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on July 3, 2026. The extension comes after a proposal submitted by the Department of Higher Education through its communication dated May 13, 2026.
Extension Under the Central Staffing Scheme
Ms. Shreya Bhardwaj has been serving on central deputation under the Central Staffing Scheme (CSS) since December 26, 2022. Her original tenure was scheduled to conclude on December 25, 2026, but the latest approval extends her assignment by an additional year.
As Deputy Secretary, Bhardwaj plays a significant role in policy formulation, administrative coordination, and the implementation of initiatives related to higher education in India. Her responsibilities include supporting the development of education policies, coordinating with government institutions, and overseeing administrative functions within the ministry.
Official Approval and Administrative Process
The Office Memorandum confirming the extension was signed by Ajit Kumar Ranjan, Deputy Secretary to the Government of India, in the Department of Personnel and Training.
Following the ACC’s approval, the order has been circulated to several key government offices, including:
- Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)
- Cabinet Secretariat
- Department of Defence Production
- Other concerned ministries and departments for implementation and official record.
The extension ensures continuity in the department’s administrative leadership and ongoing policy initiatives in the higher education sector.
About Shreya Bhardwaj
Shreya Bhardwaj is an officer of the Indian Ordnance Factories Service (IOFS) from the 2012 batch. Although her parent cadre is associated with India’s defense production system, she has been serving on deputation in the Department of Higher Education, contributing to national education governance and administrative reforms since late 2022.
What Is the Central Staffing Scheme?
The Central Staffing Scheme (CSS) is a Government of India program that allows officers from the All India Services and various Organized Group ‘A’ Services to serve in central ministries and departments on deputation.
The scheme is designed to:
- Strengthen inter-ministerial coordination.
- Improve policy implementation across government departments.
- Provide experienced civil servants with exposure to central administration.
- Enhance governance through the exchange of administrative expertise between different services.
With this extension, Shreya Bhardwaj will continue contributing to the Department of Higher Education’s policy and administrative responsibilities through December 25, 2027, ensuring continuity in key educational initiatives and government programs.
