Kamlesh Kumar Pant, who assumed charge as Officiating Chief Secretary in Himachal Pradesh on June 1, says that it is the CM and his council of ministers that determines the priorities for the administration and the role of the chief secretary is to ensure their effective implementation. Talking to The Indian Express, the 1993-batch IAS officer said that the matter of “Khalsa Tax” being imposed on Himachal Pradesh vehicles entering Punjab is very sensitive. Excerpts:

What will be your priority as chief secretary, and what challenges do you foresee?

Serving the people of the state as a chief secretary is my duty and and I don’t view my responsibilities as a challenge. As far as priorities are concerned, a chief secretary does not decide them. It is determined by the CM and his council of ministers. My responsibility as chief secretary is to ensure that the government’s policies and welfare schemes reach the people effectively, especially the person standing last in queue.

What do you think of the “Khalsa Tax” issue?

It is a very sensitive matter and pertains to the law and order. Therefore, commenting on it would not be appropriate.

The tenures of some of your predecessors were marked by controversies, and some appointments were also challenged in courts. How do you have to say on that?

The previous controversies have nothing to do with me. My appointment as the officiating chief secretary has been made through orders issued by the Secretary (Personnel) of the Himachal Pradesh government. I am yet to examine the appointment orders in detail.

Himachal is facing financial challenges. How does the government plan to address them?

The administration is working towards enhancing revenue generation. There are several avenues through which additional financial assistance can be secured from the Centre. We are pursuing these opportunities and exploring various measures to strengthen the state’s financial position.