Pankaj Kumar, a 1986 batch IAS officer who was additional chief secretary (home), took charge as the chief secretary afternoon. Outgoing CS Anil Mukim was accorded a warm farewell by his fellow secretaries.

Kumar was given the direct responsibility of the Health & family welfare department after theCovidoutbreak and he played a key role in quickly upgrading health of the state to meet the pandemic challenge. Although his superannuation is due in May 2022, he is likely to get an extension as assembly Elections are due in December next year.