1999-batch Himachal Pradesh cadre IAS officer to continue overseeing the pollution control body alongside his duties in the Environment Ministry

New Delhi, October 25: The Central government has approved an extension of senior IAS officer Amandeep Garg’s additional charge as Chairman of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), allowing him to continue in the role until a regular appointment is made or further orders are issued.

According to an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on October 21, 2026, the extension has been granted with effect from October 8. The decision was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).

Garg, a 1999-batch Indian Administrative Service officer of the Himachal Pradesh cadre, is currently serving as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. He will continue to hold the CPCB chairman’s responsibilities in addition to his existing duties.

The arrangement will remain in force until a regular appointment to the post is made or the government issues further directions, whichever occurs earlier.

The CPCB plays a key role in monitoring pollution levels, advising the Centre on environmental protection measures and coordinating with state pollution control boards on the implementation of environmental laws and standards.

Garg’s extended charge comes as pollution management and regulatory oversight remain important priorities for environmental authorities. The continuation of the interim arrangement ensures administrative continuity at the national pollution control body while the process for a regular appointment remains pending.