Introduction
A seasoned bureaucrat of the 1999 IAS batch, Kantilal Dande has been a prominent figure in Andhra Pradesh’s administrative machinery. Known for his ability to handle diverse portfolios—from Tribal Welfare to Roads & Buildings—he has left a significant mark in governance.
Early Career & Administrative Foundations
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IAS Induction (1999)
Kantilal Dande joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1999. His early years were marked by key roles at the district and state levels, refining his governance expertise in sensitive departments.
Key Postings & Contributions
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Tribal Welfare Department (Principal Secretary)
Dande served as the Principal Secretary, Tribal Welfare. In this role, he was responsible for policy and welfare programs for tribal communities across Andhra Pradesh.
(The Hindu, ETGovernment.com) -
Transport, Roads & Buildings (Principal Secretary)
On 11 July 2024, he was transferred to serve as the Principal Secretary of the Transport, Roads & Buildings Department—a critical role, given the state’s infrastructural priorities.
(The Hindu, Legend Officers) -
Industries, Infrastructure, Investment & Commerce (Secretary)
Previously, he held the combined portfolio of Secretary to Government for Industries, Infrastructure, Investment & Commerce, indicating the trust vested in him to shape industrial policy in the region.
(Business Standard, Sarkari Mirror) -
Board of Intermediate Education (Secretary)
In another reshuffle, Dande was appointed Secretary of the Board of Intermediate Education, overseeing higher secondary and intermediate education in Andhra Pradesh.
(sarkardarbar.in)
Recent Developments – June 2025
In June 2025, Sarkarimirror.com reported that Kantilal Dande, then the Commissioner of Intermediate Education and Secretary of the Board, was transferred as Secretary—Industries & Infrastructure in the Andhra Pradesh government, further affirming the evolving responsibilities he holds.
(Sarkari Mirror)
Legal Proceedings & Controversies
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High Court Contempt—January 2024
A notable legal episode arose when Kantilal Dande, as Principal Secretary, Tribal Welfare, faced a contempt of court proceeding in the Andhra Pradesh High Court. A petitioner from Srikakulam alleged willful violation of earlier Court orders, prompting a bailable warrant issued by the Court for Dande’s appearance.
(Indian Kanoon) -
Contempt Notice—November 2024
Another case, “Tesma Constructions vs Kantilal Dande, IAS,” surfaced in November 2024 in the High Court of Andhra Pradesh. It was a contempt notice related to proceedings in the Roads and Buildings Department, where Dande was Principal Secretary. A show-cause notice was issued prior to admission.
(Indian Kanoon) -
Construction-related Contempt—January 2025
In January 2025, a similar contempt matter appeared in the High Court—M/S Maruthi Constructions vs Kantilal Dande, IAS—with Dande again named as Principal Secretary, Department of Roads and Buildings. The case pertained to alleged contempt against Dande and the Chief Engineer in a construction dispute.
(Indian Kanoon)
Summary of Legal Highlights:
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Multiple High Court cases involving contempt petitions show the legal scrutiny faced by Dande in his capacity as a senior official. None appear to involve criminal wrongdoing, but rather administrative/legal disputes requiring clarification and compliance.
Top Interesting Facts
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1999 IAS Batch: A career spanning over 25 years, adapting across changing administrative domains.
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Diverse Portfolios: From Tribal Welfare to Transport and Roads, Industries, and Education—demonstrating flexibility and capability.
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Frequent High Court Involvement: His tenure has seen multiple legal cases, reflecting the high-stakes nature of bureaucratic decision-making.
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Policy to Infrastructure: Transitioning from welfare to infrastructure showcases a broad administrative skill set.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who is Kantilal Dande?
A: An Indian Administrative Service officer (1999 batch) in Andhra Pradesh, who has held senior positions such as Principal Secretary for Tribal Welfare, Transport, Roads & Buildings, and Secretary roles in Industries and Intermediate Education.
Q2: What is his current position (as of mid-2025)?
A: As of June 2025, he is reported to have been transferred as Secretary—Industries & Infrastructure in the Government of Andhra Pradesh.
(Sarkari Mirror)
Q3: Has he been involved in any controversies?
A: Yes—he has been named in multiple High Court contempt proceedings between 2024 and early 2025, related to administrative orders in the Tribal Welfare and Roads & Buildings Departments. These are legal disputes rather than criminal allegations.
Q4: How many times has he been transferred?
A: At least four prominent reshuffles are documented:
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To Industries & Infrastructure (2019)
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To Tribal Welfare Secretary
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To Board of Intermediate Education
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To Transport, Roads & Buildings (2024), and again to Industries & Infrastructure (2025)
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