Suresh Kumar Gupta Sworn In as Chairperson of J&K Water Resources Regulatory Authority

Ziraat Times News Desk

Srinagar, June 15: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Monday administered the oath of office to Suresh Kumar Gupta as the Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources Regulatory Authority (JKWRRA) at a ceremony held at the Civil Secretariat here.

The oath-taking ceremony was attended by senior government officers and officials associated with the water resources sector.

Congratulating Gupta on his appointment, the Chief Secretary expressed confidence that his extensive administrative experience and expertise in natural resource management would strengthen the Authority’s efforts to ensure sustainable, equitable and efficient management of water resources across Jammu and Kashmir.

The JKWRRA is a statutory body responsible for regulating and overseeing the development, management and conservation of water resources in the Union Territory. The Authority plays a key role in promoting integrated water resource management, safeguarding water security and advising the government on policies related to sustainable water use.

Gupta was appointed as Chairperson of the Authority through a government notification issued on June 9 under the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act, 2010. His appointment took effect upon assuming charge.

A 1991-batch Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, Gupta brings more than three decades of experience in public administration, environmental governance, forest management and natural resource conservation.

During his career, he has served in several key positions, including Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Principal Secretary in the Culture, Tribal Affairs and School Education departments, Chairman of the J&K Biodiversity Council, Chief Wildlife Warden, Director of Social Forestry, Director of the Forest Protection Force, Director of the J&K Forest Research Institute and Managing Director of the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Development Corporation.

Officials said his experience in environmental stewardship, watershed conservation and sustainable resource management is expected to contribute significantly to the functioning of the Authority.

After assuming office, Gupta thanked the government for reposing confidence in him and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening water governance, promoting sustainable water use and ensuring effective regulation of the Union Territory’s water resources.