By Amrit Pal Sidhu
Ludhiana, November 11
Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal, a 2014-batch IAS officer, officially assumed charge as the new Deputy Commissioner of Ludhiana today. Speaking to media persons, he said his foremost priority would be ensuring that the benefits of government schemes reach their intended beneficiaries at the grassroots level.
Outlining his agenda, Dr. Aggarwal identified administrative reforms, infrastructure development, cleanliness, improved traffic systems, youth and women’s empowerment, drug de-addiction, education and healthcare as key focus areas.
He said he would personally monitor ongoing development projects to ensure their timely completion. Understanding residents’ concerns and resolving their grievances would also remain central to his approach.
Dr. Aggarwal further emphasised the need for transparent and time-bound government services. To strengthen public welfare efforts, he said the administration would seek cooperation from local NGOs through the Red Cross.
Dr. Aggarwal secured the 28th rank in the UPSC examination and holds an MBBS degree from Baba Farid University of Health Sciences.
Before taking charge in Ludhiana, he served as Deputy Commissioner in Jalandhar, Fazilka, Gurdaspur and Patiala. His previous assignments also include serving as Additional Deputy Commissioner in Mohali and Amritsar, and as Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Hoshiarpur.
His ambition to become a Deputy Commissioner dates back to 2001, when he topped Ferozepur district in the Class 8 board examinations with 97 per cent marks.
A gold medalist from the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie, Dr. Aggarwal is also a national award recipient. He has twice been honoured as the best District Election Officer and has received a State Award from Invest Punjab.
Dr. Aggarwal was accompanied by his father, Mr. Surinder Aggarwal, and sister, Nishu Aggarwal, while assuming charge. His wife, Komal Mittal, is also a 2014-batch IAS officer and currently serves as Deputy Commissioner of Roopnagar.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Swati Tiwana, along with senior district administration officials and staff, welcomed him on his arrival. A Ludhiana police contingent presented him with a Guard of Honour at the District Administrative Complex.
After taking charge, Dr. Aggarwal held a brief meeting with district officials to review important government schemes and inspected the complex.
With grassroots welfare and responsive administration at the forefront of his stated agenda, the new Deputy Commissioner has placed the delivery of public services at the centre of his priorities for Ludhiana.