Ajit Pawar’s Latest Move: Pune Collector Position – Is This IAS Officer Front-Runner?
Pune, 14th January 2024: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is reportedly considering Jitendra Dudi for the position of Pune Collector. Known for his strategic referrals to officials who have demonstrated outstanding performance in various roles, Pawar has a history of bringing accomplished individuals to key positions within Pune and its neighbouring regions.
Dudi, currently serving as the Collector of Satara, garnered attention during a state-level review meeting chaired by DCM Pawar. The meeting, focusing on the District Annual Plan (General) for five districts within Pune Division—Pune, Satara, Sangli, Kolhapur, and Solapur—saw Dudi delivering an impressive presentation, setting him apart from his counterparts.
A seasoned officer with a commendable track record, Dudi has previously made significant contributions in his role as the Collector of Satara. The Deputy Chief Minister, who has been the guardian minister of Pune for several years, is known for his inclination to appoint officials who have excelled in pivotal positions such as Pune Municipal Commissioner, Pune Zilla Parishad CEO, Pune Police Commissioner, or Pune District Collector.
This prospect follows a pattern observed in 2014 when Ajit Pawar brought Saurabh Rao to the position of Pune Collector, recognizing his commendable work as Nagpur Collector. Rao’s achievements included noteworthy contributions to the Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan and effective management of crucial projects such as the rehabilitation of the collapsed Malin village, the expansion of Palkhi routes, and the revision of voter lists.
Ayush Prasad, who previously served as the CEO of Zilla Parishad in Akola, was also handpicked by Pawar to assume the role of CEO of Pune Zilla Parishad, where he earned acclaim for his dedicated service.
