A dynamic 2018-batch AGMUT cadre IAS officer, Shri Hari Kallikkat has earned recognition for driving digital governance, administrative reforms, and citizen-centric public service through key leadership roles in the Chandigarh Administration.
Profile at a Glance
“Technology becomes meaningful only when it simplifies governance and improves the lives of citizens.”
This philosophy has defined the administrative journey of Shri Hari Kallikkat, IAS, a 2018-batch Indian Administrative Service officer of the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories) Cadre. During his tenure in the Chandigarh Administration, he served as Secretary, Information Technology, while also handling important additional responsibilities including Managing Director, Chandigarh Information & Communication Technology Organisation (CICTO), Additional Chief Electoral Officer, and Secretary, Agricultural Marketing Board. He joined the Chandigarh Administration in September 2023, and later, in January 2026, was transferred to Delhi by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Early Life and the UPSC Journey
perseverance that are essential qualities of every successful civil servant. While detailed information about his hometown, family background, a his journey to the Indian Administrative Service speaks volumes about his commitment to public service. Joining the IAS as a 2018-batch officer of the AGMUT Cadre, he demonstrated exceptional academic ability, leadership potential, and a strong sense of responsibility toward nation-building.
The Catalyst – The Inspiration Behind Joining Public Service
His career reflects a deep commitment to public welfare, innovation, and effective governance. As a member of the 2018 AGMUT Cadre, he has consistently taken on challenging administrative assignments involving digital governance, elections, and public administration. His willingness to lead multiple departments demonstrates a dedication to improving government efficiency and enhancing citizen services. His journey exemplifies how professionalism, integrity, and a forward-looking approach can transform public administration and positively impact society.
Stepping into the Field – Notable Stints
Secretary, Information Technology – Chandigarh
One of his most significant assignments was leading Chandigarh’s Information Technology Department.
His responsibilities included:
- Digital governance initiatives
- E-Governance implementation
- Smart city technology integration
- Government digital infrastructure
- Administrative digitization
- IT policy implementation
Managing Director – CICTO
As Managing Director of the Chandigarh Information & Communication Technology Organisation (CICTO), he supervised projects aimed at:
- Digital public services
- IT modernization
- Citizen-friendly online platforms
- Technology-enabled governance
These initiatives supported Chandigarh’s vision of becoming a smarter and more digitally connected city.
Additional Chief Electoral Officer
In January 2025, he was entrusted with the additional charge of Additional Chief Electoral Officer, reflecting the Administration’s confidence in his administrative capabilities and integrity.
Major Administrative Contributions
Throughout his Chandigarh tenure, Shri Hari Kallikkat contributed to:
Digital Governance
- Promotion of e-Governance
- Digitization of government services
- Technology-enabled administration
Election Administration
- Strengthening electoral management
- Administrative coordination during election-related activities
Agricultural Administration
As Secretary of the Agricultural Marketing Board, he oversaw matters related to mandi administration, farmer welfare, and agricultural market governance.
Sports Administration
He also held charge as Secretary, Sports Department, contributing to sports administration and policy implementation.
The Turning Point – Digital Governance
Among his most significant contributions was strengthening Chandigarh’s digital administration through Information Technology and CICTO.
Key focus areas included:
- Expanding online citizen services
- Administrative efficiency
- Digital infrastructure
- Technology-based governance
- Inter-departmental digital coordination
His work supported Chandigarh’s transition toward modern, transparent, and technology-driven public administration.
Leadership Style
Shri Hari Kallikkat is regarded as an officer focused on:
- Administrative transparency
- Digital transformation
- Efficient governance
- Institutional coordination
- Citizen-centric service delivery
His ability to manage multiple departments simultaneously reflects strong organizational and leadership skills.
Challenges Overcome
Managing Information Technology, Elections, Sports, Food & Supplies, and Agricultural Marketing simultaneously required balancing multiple responsibilities, coordinating among departments, and ensuring uninterrupted public service delivery.
Successfully handling these diverse portfolios demonstrates administrative versatility and adaptability.
Awards & Recognition
His notable recognitions include:
- Entrusted as Secretary, Information Technology, Chandigarh Administration, where he led initiatives to strengthen digital governance and e-Governance services.
- Appointed as Managing Director, Chandigarh Information & Communication Technology Organisation (CICTO), overseeing technology-driven administrative reforms and digital infrastructure projects.
- Given the additional charge of Additional Chief Electoral Officer, Chandigarh, reflecting the Administration’s confidence in his integrity, efficiency, and impartiality in managing electoral processes.
- Served as Secretary, Agricultural Marketing Board, Sports Department, and Food & Supplies, Consumer Affairs & Legal Metrology, successfully managing multiple key portfolios simultaneously.
- Played a vital role in promoting transparent governance, administrative efficiency, and citizen-centric public service through the adoption of digital solutions and improved inter-departmental coordination.
- His appointment as District Magistrate (West), Government of NCT of Delhi, following his Chandigarh tenure, stands as a testament to the trust reposed in his leadership and administrative capabilities.
Personal Insight
A message inspired by his administrative career:
“Innovation in governance succeeds when technology, transparency, and public service work together for the benefit of every citizen.”
Awards and Legacy
Shri Hari Kallikkat’s legacy lies in advancing digital governance and strengthening administrative efficiency. His work has contributed to more transparent, technology-enabled public administration and improved coordination across departments.
Conclusion – The Vision Ahead
Shri Hari Kallikkat represents a new generation of IAS officers committed to leveraging technology for better governance. His tenure in Chandigarh, marked by leadership across Information Technology, elections, agriculture, sports, and public administration, highlights the growing importance of innovation in government.
As he continues his career in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, his experience in digital transformation and institutional management is expected to contribute further to efficient and citizen-focused governance.
Quick Reference
- Full Name: Shri Hari Kallikkat, IAS
- Current Posting: District Magistrate (West), Government of NCT of Delhi
- Previous Postings:
- Secretary, Information Technology, Chandigarh
- Managing Director, CICTO
- Additional Chief Electoral Officer
- Secretary, Agricultural Marketing Board
- Secretary, Sports
- Secretary, Food & Supplies, Consumer Affairs & Legal Metrology
- Education: B.Tech / B.E. degree in Electronics and Communication from Calicut University.
- Batch: 2018
- Cadre: AGMUT
- Awards & Achievements: Selected for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), 2018 Batch, AGMUT Cadre, one of India’s most prestigious and competitive public services.
- Key Issues Handled: Digital governance, e-Governance, election administration, sports administration, agricultural marketing, food & supplies, administrative reforms
- Inspirations To Count: Innovation, transparency, technology-driven governance, administrative excellence, citizen-first approach
Message From The Officer
“True public service is measured not by recognition, but by the positive impact governance creates in the everyday lives of citizens through integrity, innovation, and accountability.”
