Anand Kishor is a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1996 batch from the Bihar cadre. Over the years, he has held several pivotal positions in the Bihar government, earning a reputation for his administrative acumen and commitment to public service.
Early Life and Education
Born on November 6, 1971, Anand Kishor hails from Bihar. He pursued his higher education in engineering, obtaining a B.Tech and M.Tech in Electrical Engineering. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his analytical and problem-solving skills, which he later applied in his bureaucratic career.
Career Trajectory
Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB)
Anand Kishor's tenure as the Chairman of the Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) marked a significant phase in his career. Under his leadership, BSEB achieved notable milestones, including becoming the first board in India to declare the fastest board examination results for two consecutive years, 2019 and 2020. He introduced technological reforms to enhance transparency and efficiency in the examination process, such as conducting online exams for 1.78 lakh middle school students during the COVID-19 pandemic and facilitating virtual admissions for 12.65 lakh students in the 11th standard.
Finance Department
In a major bureaucratic reshuffle in 2024, Anand Kishor was appointed as the Principal Secretary of the Finance Department. This role entrusted him with overseeing the state's financial administration, budgeting, and fiscal policies. His experience in managing large-scale projects and understanding of governance intricacies positioned him well to handle the complexities of the finance sector.
Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (DEFCC)
In August 2025, Anand Kishor was assigned the additional responsibility of Principal Secretary of the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (DEFCC), Government of Bihar. This appointment underscored his versatility and the trust placed in him to manage diverse portfolios within the state administration.
Administrative Reforms and Initiatives
Throughout his career, Anand Kishor has been at the forefront of implementing administrative reforms aimed at improving governance and service delivery. His initiatives have focused on digitization, transparency, and efficiency, aligning with the broader objectives of good governance in Bihar.
Recent Developments
Bureaucratic Reshuffle
In August 2025, the Bihar government undertook a significant bureaucratic reshuffle, transferring several senior IAS officers. As part of this reshuffle, Anand Kishor was appointed as the Principal Secretary of the Finance Department, with additional charge of the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (DEFCC). This move aimed to streamline administrative functions and enhance the effectiveness of governance in the state. (Navbharat Times)
Recognition and Awards
Anand Kishor's contributions to public administration have been recognized through various awards. In 2021, he was conferred with the Outstanding Educational Leader Award by the Minister of Education, India, for his exemplary work in transforming the education sector in Bihar. His efforts in reforming the BSEB and implementing technological advancements in the examination process were particularly noted.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his commendable service, Anand Kishor's career has not been without controversies. During his tenure as the Chairman of BSEB, there were allegations of corruption and mismanagement. In 2018, a member of the Bihar Legislative Council called for a probe into his tenure, accusing him of being "deeply involved in corrupt practices." (Telegraph India) However, no formal charges were filed, and these allegations did not impede his subsequent appointments.
Personal Life
Anand Kishor maintains a low-profile personal life, focusing primarily on his professional responsibilities. He is known for his disciplined work ethic and commitment to public service. Details about his family and personal interests are kept private, reflecting his preference for maintaining a clear distinction between his professional and personal spheres.
Interesting Facts
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Technological Reforms: Introduced online examinations and virtual admissions during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing adaptability in crisis situations.
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Academic Background: Holds both B.Tech and M.Tech degrees in Electrical Engineering, a unique combination for a civil servant.
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Recognition: Awarded the Outstanding Educational Leader Award in 2021 for his contributions to educational reforms in Bihar.
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Career Longevity: With nearly three decades in service, he has held multiple key positions, reflecting his versatility and trustworthiness.
FAQs
Q1: What is Anand Kishor's educational qualification?
A1: Anand Kishor holds a B.Tech and M.Tech in Electrical Engineering.
Q2: Which batch of IAS does Anand Kishor belong to?
A2: He is from the 1996 batch of the Bihar cadre.
Q3: What are some of the key positions held by Anand Kishor?
A3: He has served as the Chairman of BSEB, Principal Secretary of the Finance Department, and Principal Secretary of the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Q4: Has Anand Kishor received any awards?
A4: Yes, he was awarded the Outstanding Educational Leader Award in 2021 for his contributions to educational reforms in Bihar.
Q5: Were there any controversies during Anand Kishor's tenure?
A5: Yes, during his time at BSEB, there were allegations of corruption, but no formal charges were filed.
Anand Kishor's career exemplifies dedication to public service and administrative excellence. His ability to navigate complex challenges and implement reforms has left a lasting impact on Bihar's governance landscape.
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