The Central Government has appointed Lokhande Prashant Sitaram, a senior IAS officer, as the new Chairperson of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). This appointment was formalised through an order from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) on July 2, 2026. The decision to assign Sitaram the additional responsibility ensures the continuity of operations for India’s largest school education board.

Lokhande Prashant Sitaram currently serves in the Ministry of Home Affairs, where he holds the position of Additional Secretary. This new dual role will allow him to oversee both the CBSE and his responsibilities within the Ministry, filling the chairperson’s position until a permanent appointee is designated.

The revised order follows a previous announcement in June where Sitaram was named full-time CBSE Chairperson. The latest adjustment optimally divides his duties between the Home Ministry and the CBSE, illustrating the government’s intention to maintain effective leadership during this transition period.

Professional Background of Lokhande Prashant Sitaram

Lokhande Prashant Sitaram is a member of the 2001-batch AGMUT cadre of the Indian Administrative Service. His academic credentials include a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Engineering. He is an alumnus of both Pune University and the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE), Mumbai, showcasing a robust educational foundation in technical and management fields.

In his professional capacity, Lokhande has gained considerable experience in various administrative roles, contributing to his qualifications for overseeing the CBSE. His familiarity with government operations and policies positions him well to manage the complexities associated with educational governance.

The decision to place Sitaram in this leadership role at CBSE reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that the board continues its essential functions without interruption. This includes conducting Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations for millions of students across India and abroad.

Significance of CBSE’s Leadership

The CBSE is responsible for regulating more than 30,000 affiliated schools, implementing national education policies, and driving examination reforms. These functions are crucial for maintaining educational standards, and thus, strong leadership during this phase is necessary. The continuity of administrative operations allows the board to function smoothly during the search for a permanent chairperson.

Officials have indicated that the government’s decision aims to avoid any lapse in the board’s administrative and academic work, which is pivotal for the educational journey of countless students. The timely management of board examinations and school policies plays a central role in shaping the educational landscape of the country.

As he takes on this significant role, Lokhande Prashant Sitaram is expected to navigate the challenges of educational administration and ensure that CBSE maintains its high standards during this critical transitional phase.

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