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{{#seo:
{{#seo:
| title=Suresh Kumar Nangia – IAS (Retd) and Public Policy Expert
| title=Suresh Kumar – IAS (Retd) and Public Policy Expert
| title_mode=append
| title_mode=append
| keywords=Suresh Kumar Nangia, IAS Retd, Punjab Administration, Chief Principal Secretary Punjab, Indian Administrative Service, Public Policy, Governance, Water Policy, Education Policy, Punjab Reforms
| keywords=Suresh Kumar, Suresh Kumar Nangia, IAS Retd, Punjab Administration, Chief Principal Secretary Punjab, Indian Administrative Service, Public Policy, Governance, Water Policy, Education Policy, Punjab Reforms
| description=Suresh Kumar Nangia is an Indian Administrative Service officer (Retd) and former Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Punjab, known for his work in public policy, governance reforms, water resources, agriculture diversification, education and cooperative sector reforms.
| description=Suresh Kumar is an Indian Administrative Service officer (Retd) and former Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Punjab, known for his work in public policy, governance reforms, water resources, agriculture diversification, education and cooperative sector reforms.
| image=Suresh Kumar Nangia.jpeg
| image=Suresh Kumar Nangia.jpeg
| image_alt=Suresh Kumar Nangia IAS Retd
| image_alt=Suresh Kumar IAS Retd
}}
}}
{{infow
{{infow
| title = Suresh Kumar Nangia [[file:verified.png]]
| title = Suresh Kumar [[file:verified.png]]
| image = Suresh Kumar Nangia.jpeg
| image = Suresh Kumar Nangia.jpeg
| born = 04 April 1956
| caption =
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1956|04|04}}
| birth_place = Sonepat, Haryana, India
| birth_place = Sonepat, Haryana, India
| nationality = Indian
| nationality = Indian
| occupation = IAS officer (Retd), Former Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Punjab
| yearsactive = 1977–present
| residence = House No. 618, Sector 16, Chandigarh, India
| residence = House No. 618, Sector 16, Chandigarh, India
| occupation = IAS officer (Retd.)
| known_for = Former Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Punjab
| years_active = 1977–present
| spouse = Dr. Anita Nangia
| children = 2
| email = sureshkumarnangia@gmail.com
| email = sureshkumarnangia@gmail.com
| phone = +91-9501015261
}}
}}
Suresh Kumar Nangia is an Indian Administrative Service officer (Retd) and former Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Punjab. Over a career in public service spanning more than four decades, he has held key positions in the Government of Punjab and the Government of India, working across public policy, governance, economic administration, water resources, education, rural development, power sector reforms and cooperative sector restructuring. He has been associated with major state and national level policy initiatives, World Bank and UN assisted programmes, and has continued to contribute to governance and development discourse through research, writing and advisory roles after superannuation.
Suresh Kumar (born 4 April 1956) is a retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer and former Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Punjab. Over a public service career spanning more than four decades, he has held senior administrative, policy, and development positions in the Government of Punjab, Government of India, and the United Nations system. His work covers governance reforms, economic administration, public finance, rural development, water and power sector management, cooperative restructuring, and large-scale programme design with the World Bank and UN agencies.
 
Even after retirement, Kumar continues to contribute to public policy as a researcher, advisor, writer and commentator on governance, sustainability, federalism, agriculture, and institutional reform.


==Early life and education==
==Early life and education==
Suresh Kumar Nangia was born on 4 April 1956 in Sonepat, Haryana, India. He completed his graduation in Commerce between 1973 and 1976, followed by a post-graduate degree in Commerce from the University of Delhi from 1976 to 1978.
Kumar was born in Sonepat, Haryana. He completed a Bachelor of Commerce (1973–1976) and a Master of Commerce (1976–1978) from the University of Delhi.


In 1994–95 he obtained a Master’s degree in Social Policy and Planning from the London School of Economics, University of London, with a specialization in education and rural development. His academic training laid the foundation for his later work in social sector policy, public administration and development planning.
In 1994–95, he earned a Master’s degree in Social Policy and Planning from the London School of Economics, specialising in education and rural development. His academic training informed his later work in social sector policy, governance design, and development planning.


==Civil service career==
==Civil service career==
Suresh Kumar joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and served in various field and secretariat positions at the state and central levels from 1983 to 2021. His career has spanned policy formulation, planning, implementation of reforms, public administration, financial management, project management and pro-poor development programmes at grassroots level.
===Government of Punjab===
 
Kumar joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1983 and served in numerous senior roles, including:
He served in multiple senior roles in the Government of Punjab including:
* Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister (2017–2021)
 
* Financial Commissioner Development and Principal Secretary, Water Supply & Sanitation (2013–2016)
* Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Punjab (17 March 2017 – 18 September 2021)
* Principal Secretary, Water Supply & Sanitation; Science, Technology & Environment (2012–2013)
* Financial Commissioner Development and Principal Secretary, Water Supply and Sanitation (1 April 2013 – 8 December 2014; and subsequently Additional Chief Secretary (Development) with Water Supply and Sanitation from 8 December 2014 – 30 April 2016)
* Principal Secretary, Local Government (2012)
* Principal Secretary, Water Supply and Sanitation and Science, Technology and Environment (31 December 2012 – 31 March 2013)
* Financial Commissioner, Cooperation; Principal Secretary, Technical Education & Industrial Training; Chairman, Punjab State Board of Technical Education (2010–2012)
* Principal Secretary, Local Government (19 March 2012 – 31 December 2012)
* Principal Secretary / Secretary, Irrigation & Power (2007–2009)
* Financial Commissioner, Cooperation and Principal Secretary, Technical Education and Industrial Training; Chairman, Punjab State Board of Technical Education and Industrial Training (2010–2012)
* Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister (2003–2007)
* Principal Secretary, Irrigation and Power, Punjab (26 June 2008 – 14 December 2009)
* Chief Administrator, Punjab Urban Planning & Development Authority (2003)
* Secretary, Irrigation and Power, Punjab (13 March 2007 – 25 June 2008)
* Excise & Taxation Commissioner (2002–2003)
* Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Punjab (19 December 2003 – 13 March 2007)
* Registrar, Cooperative Societies (1999–2002)
* Chief Administrator, Punjab Urban Planning and Development Authority, Chandigarh (May 2003 – November 2003)
* Director, Technical Education & Industrial Training (1992–1993)
* Excise and Taxation Commissioner, Punjab (April 2002 – May 2003)
* Deputy Commissioner, Ferozepur (1990–1992)
* Registrar, Cooperative Societies, Punjab (June 1999 – April 2002)
* Additional Deputy Commissioner, Amritsar (1987–1989)
* Director of Technical Education and Industrial Training, Government of Punjab (May 1992 – March 1993)
* SDO (Civil), Talwandi Sabo (1985–1987)
* Deputy Commissioner, Ferozepur (August 1990 – May 1992)
* Joint Commissioner, Excise and Taxation, Government of Punjab (February 1989 – August 1990)
* Additional Deputy Commissioner, Amritsar (February 1987 – February 1989)
* SDO (Civil), Talwandi Sabo (August 1985 – February 1987)
 
At the Government of India level he served as:
 
* Deputy Secretary (Training) (March 1993 – October 1994)
* Private Secretary to the Minister of State for Education (December 1995 – June 1996)
* Deputy Secretary, Elementary Education, Department of Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development (June 1996 – March 1997)


He also worked with the United Nations system as Consultant and National Programme Manager for the UN System Community-based Primary Education Programme with UNDP, New Delhi (1997–1999), a joint initiative of UNDP, UNICEF, UNESCO, UNFPA and ILO implemented in eight Indian states.
===Government of India===
* Deputy Secretary (Training), DoPT (1993–1994)
* Private Secretary to the Minister of State for Education (1995–1996)
* Deputy Secretary, Elementary Education, MHRD (1996–1997)


==Professional experience and focus==
===United Nations===
Throughout his career, Suresh Kumar has worked on:
* Consultant and National Programme Manager, UN System Community-Based Primary Education Programme (1997–1999)


* Public policy formulation and implementation in areas such as education, agriculture, rural development, power, water resources, taxation, cooperatives and local government
==Professional Focus==
* Governance and public administration reforms, including business process re-engineering, administrative and financial restructuring
Kumar’s areas of expertise include:
* Policy planning, programme design and project management in collaboration with international agencies including the World Bank and UN system
* Governance reforms and public administration
* Inter-governmental coordination and high-level governance issues as Principal Secretary and Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Punjab
* Rural development, agriculture policy, and cooperative restructuring
* Water and power sector governance
* Business process re-engineering
* Programme design with the World Bank and UN systems
* High-level governance coordination and public policy formulation


He has dealt with key governance issues in agriculture, cooperation, education, power, industries, tax and economic administration, water resources, water supply and sanitation, urban local bodies and decentralised planning.
==Major initiatives and achievements==
Kumar has been associated with several significant policy reforms and development projects, including:
===Policy and governance reforms===
* Punjab Anti-Red Tape Act 2021
* Punjab Social Security Fund Act 2019
* Punjab Slum Dwellers (Proprietary Rights) Act 2020
* Punjab Municipal Property (Management and Transfer) Act 2020
* Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojna (2018)
* VAT implementation in Punjab (2005)
* Cooperative reforms (1999–2002)
* Punjab BPR Report (2008)
* Punjab State Water Policy (2007–08)
* Power Sector Reforms Roadmap (2010)


==Prominent achievements==
===Water, rural development, and infrastructure===
Suresh Kumar has been associated with a wide range of policy and programme initiatives in Punjab and at the national level. Some of his prominent achievements include:
* Punjab Rural Drinking Water Supply & Sanitation Projects – World Bank


* Formulation of the Punjab Anti-Red Tape Act 2021 to reduce compliance burden on citizens and lay down norms for speedier disposal of business in government
# US$154M (Phase I)
* Formulation of the Punjab Social Security Fund Act 2019, the Punjab Slum Dwellers (Proprietary Rights) Act 2020, and the Punjab Municipal Property (Management and Transfer) Act 2020
# US$354M (Phase II)
* Conceptualisation and formulation of the Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojna (MGSVY) in 2018 to ensure that the benefits of socio-economic schemes reach the most distressed and vulnerable groups
* Punjab Rural Water Supply Policy (2014)
* Approval of the Second Punjab Rural Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Project for World Bank assistance of US $354 million (2015)
* Water resource development projects worth ₹7352 crore
* Formulation and implementation of the Punjab State Policy on Rural Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation (2014)
* Successful implementation of the First World Bank aided Punjab Rural Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Project of US $154 million (2013–14)
* Preparation of a comprehensive Punjab State Agriculture Diversification Plan of Rs. 8775 crore, part of which was approved as the Crop Diversification Programme (CDP) by the Government of India (2014)
* Introduction and implementation of Core Banking Solutions (CBS) in State Cooperative Financial Institutions in Punjab as part of cooperative sector reforms, completed by 2015
* Formulation and implementation of policies and programmes for technical education and industrial training in Punjab, including a World Bank assisted programme for upgradation of Industrial Training Institutes
* Drafting of a new State Policy for Technical Education and Industrial Training to improve quality and bridge gaps between school and higher education
* Formulation and implementation of three major power generation projects: Talwandi Sabo Thermal Power Project (1980 MW), Rajpura Thermal Power Project (1320 MW) and Goindwal Sahib Thermal Power Project (540 MW) on BOO basis with private investment of over Rs. 20,000 crore (2007–2009)
* Conceptualisation and pursuit of projects worth Rs. 7352 crore for development of water resources (2007–2009)
* Preparation of a report on Business Process Re-engineering in Government as Chairman of the Working Group of the Government of Punjab (2008), highlighting simplification of processes and reduction of delays
* Preparation of the State Water Policy for Punjab to ensure equitable water availability and optimal utilisation of ground and surface water, identifying governance issues and required reforms (2007–08)
* Preparation and implementation of a Roadmap for Power Sector Reforms including restructuring of power utilities in Punjab (implemented in 2010)
* Preparation of legislation for Value Added Tax (VAT) in Punjab, implemented from 1 April 2005
* Conceptualisation, formulation and implementation of administrative, financial and structural reforms in the cooperatives sector in Punjab (1999–2002)
* Formulation, negotiation and finalisation of the UN System Support for Community-Based Primary Education Programme in India (1997–99)
* Conceptualisation and implementation of the Inter-State Teacher Exchange Programme under the Joint UN Initiative on Primary Education (1997–99)
* Heading the Elementary Education Division in the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India, and dealing with management and supervision of basic education and literacy (1995–97)
* Authoring the Report of the Committee of State Education Ministers on implications of making elementary education a Fundamental Right (1997)
* Implementation of the National Programme of Nutritional Support to Primary Education (Mid-day Meal Scheme) covering 110 million children in 5500 blocks (1995–96)
* Implementation of Operation Blackboard for improvement of school infrastructure (1995–96)
* Preparation of proposals for the Working Group on Elementary Education for the Ninth Five Year Plan, including several national programmes in elementary education (1995–96)
* Formulation and implementation of the World Bank Technician Education Development Programme in Punjab (1992–93)
* Preparation of the Punjab State Technical Education and Industrial Training Board Act, 1993, passed without amendment (1992–93)
* Formulation and implementation of in-service training programmes for IAS officers on restructuring of the Indian economy and use of information technology in government (1993–94)
* Formulation and implementation of training programmes on decentralized planning following the 73rd Constitutional Amendment (1993–94)
* Administration of the Integrated Rural Development Programme at state level and assistance to over 20,000 families below the poverty line through microfinance (1987–1992)


==Education and training==
===Energy sector===
In addition to his formal academic degrees, Suresh Kumar has undertaken extensive professional training in India and abroad, including:
Oversaw the establishment of three major private-sector power plants:
* Talwandi Sabo – 1980 MW
* Rajpura – 1320 MW
* Goindwal Sahib – 540 MW
* Total private investment: over ₹20,000 crore
* Conceptualization of Energy Sector Reforms in Punjab


* Addressing the Global Water Crisis – SDG Academy (2024)
===Agriculture and education initiatives===
* Ethics in Action – SDG Academy (2024)
* State Agriculture Diversification Plan (₹8775 crore)
* Debt Sustainability Framework for Low-Income Countries – International Monetary Fund (2022)
* Technical Education & ITI Upgradation (World Bank supported)
* e-Learning on Digital Agriculture – Open Learning Campus, World Bank Group (2022)
* Technician Education Development Programme (1992–93)
* Smart Cities for Sustainable Development – Open Learning Campus, World Bank Group (2022)
* Punjab Technical Education Board Act (1993)
* Investing in Quality Infrastructure for a Green, Inclusive, and Resilient Recovery – World Bank Group (2022)
* Operation Blackboard implementation (1995–96)
* Sustainable Global Food Systems – University of Edinburgh, UK (2022)
* Mid-Day Meal Scheme expansion for 110 million children (1995–96)
* Data for Better Lives: A New Social Contract – World Bank Group (2021)
* RTE Fundamental Right Report (1997)
* The Future of Work: Preparing for Disruption – World Bank Group (2021)
* Inter-State Teacher Exchange Programme (1997–99)
* Trading for Development in the Age of Global Value Chains – World Bank Group (2020)
* Writing for Social Justice – University of California, Berkeley, USA (2019)
* Unlocking Investment and Finance in Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs) – World Bank Group (2019)
* Mid-Career Training Programme Phase V – Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, Mussoorie (2011)
* Global Perspectives on Governance Programme – School of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University, USA (2011)
* Programme on Agriculture and Rural Development – Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore (2011)
* Training on Ethics in Public Governance – IC Centre for Governance, Panchgani (2009)
* Leadership Potential Seminar – Western Management Development Centre, Denver, USA (2009)
* Regional and international workshops and conferences on cooperation, literacy, education and governance in Nepal, Thailand, Mexico, China, Austria and other locations between 1994 and 2012
* Training in Energy and Development – TERI, New Delhi (1994)
* Training in Industrial Policy and Planning – IIM Ahmedabad (1989)
* Training in Computers and Information Technology – NIC, New Delhi (1988)


==Honours, awards and memberships==
==Education, training, and international exposure==
Suresh Kumar has received several honours and has been associated with various organisations, including:
Kumar has received extensive training from institutions, including:
* SDG Academy (2024): Global Water Crisis, Ethics in Action
* IMF (2022): Debt Sustainability Framework
* World Bank OLC (2022): Smart Cities, Digital Agriculture, Quality Infrastructure
* University of Edinburgh (2022): Sustainable Global Food Systems
* UC Berkeley (2019): Writing for Social Justice
* LBSNAA (2011): Mid-Career Phase V
* Columbia University (2011): Governance Programme
* IIM Bangalore (2011), IIM Ahmedabad (1989)
* TERI (1994)
* Multiple international workshops in Nepal, Thailand, Mexico, China, UK, USA, and Austria (1994–2012)


* Member, Board of Advisors, Global Policy Insights (GPI), a centrist public policy think tank (from December 2022)
==Honours, awards, and memberships==
* Independent Director and Member of the Board of Directors, Vardhman Textiles Ltd, Ludhiana (from October 2022)
* Advisor, Global Policy Insights (2022–present)
* Independent Director and Member of the Board of Directors, United Phosphates Ltd (UPL) (from October 2022)
* Independent Director, Vardhman Textiles Ltd (from 2022)
* International Policy Fellow, Centre for Science and Policy (CSaP), University of Cambridge, UK (2019–2023)
* Independent Director, UPL Ltd (from 2022)
* Translation and Implementation Advisor, TIGR2ESS Project, University of Cambridge, UK (2020–2022)
* International Policy Fellow, Centre for Science and Policy (CSaP), Cambridge (2019–2023)
* Member-convener, Inter-UN Agency Working Group on Primary Education in India (1997–1999)
* TIGR2ESS Project, University of Cambridge (2020–2022)
* Member, Inter-UN Agency Working Group on Gender Database (1997–1999)
* Member-Convener, Inter-UN Working Group (Primary Education)
* Recipient of UK ODA Scholarship for M.Sc. in Social Policy and Planning at LSE
* Member, UN Gender Database Group
* Second rank in university in graduate programme (1976) with merit certificate and national scholarship
* UK ODA Scholarship – LSE
* Merit certificate from the University of Delhi for fourth rank in Master’s in Commerce (1978)
* Delhi University M.Com merit certificate (4th rank, 1978)
* Second rank in B.Com (1976)
* National scholarship and merit certificate


==Papers and publications==
==Publications and references==
Suresh Kumar is a prolific writer on public policy, governance, agriculture, water, federalism, economics and social development. His articles have appeared in national newspapers, journals and online platforms including Hindustan Times, The Tribune, Economic Times Government, Daily World, Millennium Post, The Print and others.
===Governance & Public Policy===
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/guest-colnumn-democracy-prevails-despite-political-fluctuations-10717579911329 Democracy prevails despite political fluctuations – Hindustan Times]
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/guest-column-our-country-needs-more-participatory-governance-101710616982205.html?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ht_site Our country needs more participatory governance – Hindustan Times]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/governance-paradigm-shift-majoritarian-authoritarianism-vs-participatory-democracy/108669284?utm_source=copy&utm_medium=pshare Governance paradigm shift: Majoritarian authoritarianism vs participatory democracy – ET Government]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=9327ca8439 Changing governance paradigms – Hindustan Times epaper]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=21ee2bc9e1 Financial centralisation threat to federal structure – Hindustan Times epaper]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/good-governance-is-more-essential-than-economic-growth-to-sustain-democracy/105921900 Good governance more essential than economic growth – ET Government]
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/guest-column-leveraging-bureaucracy-for-effective-public-service-delivery-101654033025984.html Leveraging bureaucracy for effective public service delivery – Hindustan Times]
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/guest-column-pandemic-unveils-the-politics-of-expertise-101654978069593.html Pandemic unveils the politics of expertise – Hindustan Times]
* [https://www.millenniumpost.in/amp/opinion/politics-of-policymaking-523431 Politics of policymaking – Millennium Post]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=2955f5b685b Transition to evidence-based policies – Hindustan Times epaper]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=2585f35311c Punjab issues need attention – Hindustan Times epaper]
* [https://m.tribuneindia.com/news/musings/is-change-in-punjab-for-real-399595 Is change in Punjab for real? – Tribune]
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/guest-column-it-s-time-to-reboot-india-s-broken-policy-machine-101652559451018 It’s time to reboot India’s broken policy machine – Hindustan Times]
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/guest-column-opinions-differ-but-differences-matter-101706002405481.html?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ht_AMP Opinions differ, but differences matter – Hindustan Times]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/governance/opinion-cooperatives-present-a-democratic-business-model/84782822 Cooperatives present a democratic business model – ET Government]
* [https://www.millenniumpost.in/opinion/thriving-in-harmony-542928 Thriving in harmony – Millennium Post]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=379b772fa5 Stubble trouble Part-II – Hindustan Times epaper]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=109ed510489 Repeal of farm laws reflects fading institutional memory – Hindustan Times epaper]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=1477f5d10da Fiscal management & public debt – Hindustan Times epaper]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=261049ace992&imageview=0 Changing imperatives of governance – Hindustan Times epaper]


His publications include articles such as:
===Sustainability & Water Governance===
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/towards-sustainable-governance-embracing-change-for-collective-welfare/110264636?utm_source=top_story&utm_medium=homepage Towards sustainable governance – ET Government]
* [https://lnkd.in/d7bFVYXD Water Governance: Unlocking Sustainable Development in Punjab – Hindustan Times]
* [https://etgovernment.com/s/zd1bzdb Water Governance: Unlocking Sustainable Development in Punjab – ET Government]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=19f76018e5 Punjab's water woes: Beneficiary states should share burden – HT epaper]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/the-perceived-limitations-of-the-mdgs-forced-the-sdgs/102128933 Perceived limitations of MDGs forced SDGs – ET Government]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/stubble-trouble-are-farmers-solely-to-blame-for-the-air-pollution-in-delhi-and-neighbouring-areas/105486131 Stubble trouble: Are farmers solely to blame? – ET Government]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=211195ad38d1 Sutlej river basin needs integrated management – HT epaper]
* [https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/comment/buddha-nullah-a-toxic-story-of-industrialisation/ Buddha Nallah: A toxic story of industrialisation – Tribune]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/ai-in-governance-navigating-the-complexities-via-strategic-investments-collaborative-efforts/111089796?utm_source=top_story&utm_medium=homepage AI in governance – ET Government]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/leveraging-history-in-policymaking-insights-challenges-and-innovations/104108713 Leveraging history in policymaking – ET Government]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=296f8f8bcf0 Disconnect in farm governance (related to sustainability) – HT epaper]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=379b772fa5 Stubble trouble Part-II – HT epaper]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=51230ea3332 Reclaiming integrity through transparent governance – HT epaper]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=2012d38f7d32 Media moderation in governance – HT epaper]
* [https://epaper.dailyworld.in/Details.aspx?id=99083&boxid=78100&uid=&dat=2022-10-04 The travel spice: An avoidable bitterness – Daily World]
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/guest-column-towards-sustainable-governance-embracing-change-for-collective-welfare-101716248344735. Towards sustainable governance, embracing change for collective welfare – Hindustan Times]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=10831ddc120 Sustainable development needs comprehensive roadmap – HT epaper]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/balancing-heritage-with-sustainable-development-needs-a-holistic-approach/105555379 Balancing heritage with sustainable development – ET Government]


* Punjab's floods: A national challenge beyond politics (2025)
===Agriculture & Food Systems===
* Beyond good governance: India must embrace inclusive, strong and adaptive leadership (2025)
* [https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/comment/diversify-msp-to-empower-farmers/ Diversify MSP to empower farmers – Tribune]
* Punjab on brink: From myths, misgovernance to reforms (2025)
* [https://lnkd.in/gpN84Cp What ails Indian agriculture? – Daily World]
* Indus Water Treaty sustains fragile hope of peace in South Asia (2025)
* [https://epaper.dailyworld.in/Details.aspx?id=139196&boxid=78079&uid=&dat=2024-03-02 Need to enhance resilience of farmers – Daily World]
* From green revolution to sustainable evolution: India needs to shift gears (2025)
* [https://etgovernment.com/s/dgzm6d5 Agricultural transformation demands intensive care – ET Government]
* Multiple essays on ethics in governance, electoral integrity, agricultural transformation, water governance, sustainable development, cooperative reforms and federalism between 2022 and 2025
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=110fc0be5ad Withering cotton cultivation in Punjab – HT epaper]
* Earlier articles on climate change, food security, public policy regulation, COVID-19 and governance, agricultural diversification, financial inclusion and demonetisation between 2016 and 2021
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=24953d797da Disconnect in farm governance – HT epaper]
* Research papers and policy notes including:
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/opinion-sri-lankan-economy-collapsed-due-to-flawed-agriculture-policy/94129009 Sri Lankan economy collapsed due to flawed agriculture policy – ET Government]
* Financing Agricultural Operations (2011)
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/address-inherent-flaws-disparities-in-neet-101721676978445.html?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ht_site Address inherent flaws & disparities in NEET – Hindustan Times]
* Obstacles in Children’s Attending School: Special Problems for Girls (1998)
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/the-disconnect-in-agricultural-governance-bridging-the-gap-for-sustainable-growth/103384090 Disconnect in agricultural governance: bridging the gap – ET Government]
* Papers on UN aid coordination, women and literacy, rural self-government and university education in third world countries
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/guest-column-punjab-s-agriculture-policy-needs-to-be-more-nuanced-101727258414719.html?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ht_site Punjab’s agriculture policy needs to be more nuanced – Hindustan Times]
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/guest-column-add-value-to-agriculture-for-its-transformation-101664455696125.html Add value to agriculture for its transformation – Hindustan Times]
* [https://epaper.dailyworld.in/epaperimages/22052022/22052022-md-dw-2.pdf Why diversification hasn't enthused farmers – Daily World epaper PDF]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/governance/opinion-farm-legislations-fail-to-enthuse-farmers/78487113 Farm legislations fail to enthuse farmers – ET Government]
* [https://epaper.tribuneindia.com/c/67854550 In the end, right remains right – Tribune epaper]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=262ce606f56 Farmers hit the road again, govt at crossroads – HT epaper]


==Language and computer skills==
===Budget, Finance & Economy===
* Languages: English, Hindi and Punjabi (fluent)
* [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/aligning-fund-devolution-with-changing-growth-imperatives-101722627389990.html Aligning fund devolution with changing growth imperatives – Hindustan Times]
* Computer skills: word processing, database and spreadsheets
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=21875167da5&imageview=0 Navigating the future of finance in Punjab – HT epaper]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/corporate-governance-in-publiv-sector-enterprises-the-fundamental-priniciples-of-brsr/110608640? Corporate governance in PSEs: BRSR fundamentals – ET Government]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/how-private-is-private-investment/80611131 How private is private investment? – ET Government]
* [https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/ai-in-governance-navigating-the-complexities-via-strategic-investments-collaborative-efforts/111089796?utm_source=top_story&utm_medium=homepage AI in governance: strategic investments & collaboration – ET Government]
* [https://lnkd.in/dKQkdycE Indus Water Treaty sustains fragile hope of peace – Hindustan Times]
* [https://epaper.hindustantimes.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=110fc0be5ad Withering cotton cultivation in Punjab – HT epaper]
* [https://www.millenniumpost.in/opinion/thriving-in-harmony-542928 Thriving in harmony – Millennium Post]


==Personal life and interests==
==Languages and computing skills==
Suresh Kumar is married and resides in Chandigarh, India. His interests include reading, writing, and sports, particularly cricket and badminton. He continues to be active in public discourse on governance, development, agriculture, water and policy reforms through advisory roles, lectures and writings.
* English, Hindi, Punjabi
* Skilled in word processing, spreadsheets, and databases


==Contact==
==Personal life==
Home Address: House No. 618, Sector 16, Chandigarh, India 
Kumar lives in Chandigarh with his family. His interests include reading, writing, cricket, and badminton. He remains actively involved in advisory work, academic lectures, and governance research.
Phone: +91-9501015261 
Email: sureshkumarnangia@gmail.com


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery mode="packed" widths=240px heights=180px>
<gallery mode="packed" widths=400px heights=250px>
File:Suresh Kumar Nangia1.jpeg | Suresh Kumar, and his wife Dr Anita Nangia with elder son Vaibhav and his daughter Roohi
File:Suresh Kumar Nangia1.jpeg | Suresh Kumar, and his wife Dr Anita Nangia with elder son Vaibhav and his daughter Roohi
File:Suresh Kumar Nangia2.jpeg|Suresh Kumar, with wife Dr Anita Nangia and younger son Anish Nangia and his wife Shilpa.
File:Suresh Kumar Nangia2.jpeg|Suresh Kumar, with wife Dr Anita Nangia and younger son Anish Nangia and his wife Shilpa.

Latest revision as of 07:19, 10 December 2025

Suresh Kumar (born 4 April 1956) is a retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer and former Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Punjab. Over a public service career spanning more than four decades, he has held senior administrative, policy, and development positions in the Government of Punjab, Government of India, and the United Nations system. His work covers governance reforms, economic administration, public finance, rural development, water and power sector management, cooperative restructuring, and large-scale programme design with the World Bank and UN agencies.

Even after retirement, Kumar continues to contribute to public policy as a researcher, advisor, writer and commentator on governance, sustainability, federalism, agriculture, and institutional reform.

Early life and education

Kumar was born in Sonepat, Haryana. He completed a Bachelor of Commerce (1973–1976) and a Master of Commerce (1976–1978) from the University of Delhi.

In 1994–95, he earned a Master’s degree in Social Policy and Planning from the London School of Economics, specialising in education and rural development. His academic training informed his later work in social sector policy, governance design, and development planning.

Civil service career

Government of Punjab

Kumar joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1983 and served in numerous senior roles, including:

  • Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister (2017–2021)
  • Financial Commissioner Development and Principal Secretary, Water Supply & Sanitation (2013–2016)
  • Principal Secretary, Water Supply & Sanitation; Science, Technology & Environment (2012–2013)
  • Principal Secretary, Local Government (2012)
  • Financial Commissioner, Cooperation; Principal Secretary, Technical Education & Industrial Training; Chairman, Punjab State Board of Technical Education (2010–2012)
  • Principal Secretary / Secretary, Irrigation & Power (2007–2009)
  • Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister (2003–2007)
  • Chief Administrator, Punjab Urban Planning & Development Authority (2003)
  • Excise & Taxation Commissioner (2002–2003)
  • Registrar, Cooperative Societies (1999–2002)
  • Director, Technical Education & Industrial Training (1992–1993)
  • Deputy Commissioner, Ferozepur (1990–1992)
  • Additional Deputy Commissioner, Amritsar (1987–1989)
  • SDO (Civil), Talwandi Sabo (1985–1987)

Government of India

  • Deputy Secretary (Training), DoPT (1993–1994)
  • Private Secretary to the Minister of State for Education (1995–1996)
  • Deputy Secretary, Elementary Education, MHRD (1996–1997)

United Nations

  • Consultant and National Programme Manager, UN System Community-Based Primary Education Programme (1997–1999)

Professional Focus

Kumar’s areas of expertise include:

  • Governance reforms and public administration
  • Rural development, agriculture policy, and cooperative restructuring
  • Water and power sector governance
  • Business process re-engineering
  • Programme design with the World Bank and UN systems
  • High-level governance coordination and public policy formulation

Major initiatives and achievements

Kumar has been associated with several significant policy reforms and development projects, including:

Policy and governance reforms

  • Punjab Anti-Red Tape Act 2021
  • Punjab Social Security Fund Act 2019
  • Punjab Slum Dwellers (Proprietary Rights) Act 2020
  • Punjab Municipal Property (Management and Transfer) Act 2020
  • Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojna (2018)
  • VAT implementation in Punjab (2005)
  • Cooperative reforms (1999–2002)
  • Punjab BPR Report (2008)
  • Punjab State Water Policy (2007–08)
  • Power Sector Reforms Roadmap (2010)

Water, rural development, and infrastructure

  • Punjab Rural Drinking Water Supply & Sanitation Projects – World Bank
  1. US$154M (Phase I)
  2. US$354M (Phase II)
  • Punjab Rural Water Supply Policy (2014)
  • Water resource development projects worth ₹7352 crore

Energy sector

Oversaw the establishment of three major private-sector power plants:

  • Talwandi Sabo – 1980 MW
  • Rajpura – 1320 MW
  • Goindwal Sahib – 540 MW
  • Total private investment: over ₹20,000 crore
  • Conceptualization of Energy Sector Reforms in Punjab

Agriculture and education initiatives

  • State Agriculture Diversification Plan (₹8775 crore)
  • Technical Education & ITI Upgradation (World Bank supported)
  • Technician Education Development Programme (1992–93)
  • Punjab Technical Education Board Act (1993)
  • Operation Blackboard implementation (1995–96)
  • Mid-Day Meal Scheme expansion for 110 million children (1995–96)
  • RTE Fundamental Right Report (1997)
  • Inter-State Teacher Exchange Programme (1997–99)

Education, training, and international exposure

Kumar has received extensive training from institutions, including:

  • SDG Academy (2024): Global Water Crisis, Ethics in Action
  • IMF (2022): Debt Sustainability Framework
  • World Bank OLC (2022): Smart Cities, Digital Agriculture, Quality Infrastructure
  • University of Edinburgh (2022): Sustainable Global Food Systems
  • UC Berkeley (2019): Writing for Social Justice
  • LBSNAA (2011): Mid-Career Phase V
  • Columbia University (2011): Governance Programme
  • IIM Bangalore (2011), IIM Ahmedabad (1989)
  • TERI (1994)
  • Multiple international workshops in Nepal, Thailand, Mexico, China, UK, USA, and Austria (1994–2012)

Honours, awards, and memberships

  • Advisor, Global Policy Insights (2022–present)
  • Independent Director, Vardhman Textiles Ltd (from 2022)
  • Independent Director, UPL Ltd (from 2022)
  • International Policy Fellow, Centre for Science and Policy (CSaP), Cambridge (2019–2023)
  • TIGR2ESS Project, University of Cambridge (2020–2022)
  • Member-Convener, Inter-UN Working Group (Primary Education)
  • Member, UN Gender Database Group
  • UK ODA Scholarship – LSE
  • Delhi University M.Com merit certificate (4th rank, 1978)
  • Second rank in B.Com (1976)
  • National scholarship and merit certificate

Publications and references

Governance & Public Policy

Sustainability & Water Governance

Agriculture & Food Systems

Budget, Finance & Economy

Languages and computing skills

  • English, Hindi, Punjabi
  • Skilled in word processing, spreadsheets, and databases

Personal life

Kumar lives in Chandigarh with his family. His interests include reading, writing, cricket, and badminton. He remains actively involved in advisory work, academic lectures, and governance research.

Gallery

  • Suresh Kumar, and his wife Dr Anita Nangia with elder son Vaibhav and his daughter Roohi
    Suresh Kumar, and his wife Dr Anita Nangia with elder son Vaibhav and his daughter Roohi
  • Suresh Kumar, with wife Dr Anita Nangia and younger son Anish Nangia and his wife Shilpa.
    Suresh Kumar, with wife Dr Anita Nangia and younger son Anish Nangia and his wife Shilpa.
  • Suresh Kumar and his wife Dr Anita Nangia with their elder son Vaibhav Nangia and his wife Anumeha with their daughter Roohi
    Suresh Kumar and his wife Dr Anita Nangia with their elder son Vaibhav Nangia and his wife Anumeha with their daughter Roohi
  • Suresh Kumar and his wife Dr Anita Nangia
    Suresh Kumar and his wife Dr Anita Nangia
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