Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Monday administered the oath of office to Suresh Kumar Gupta, who has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources Regulatory Authority (JKWRRA). The ceremony was held at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar and attended by senior government officials and stakeholders from the water resources sector.
The appointment marks a key administrative development aimed at strengthening water governance and sustainable resource management in the Union Territory.
Oath Ceremony Held at Civil Secretariat
The formal oath-taking ceremony was conducted at the Civil Secretariat, where Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo officially administered the oath to Suresh Kumar Gupta.
Senior officials from the administration and representatives connected to the water resources sector were present during the event. The gathering highlighted the importance of the authority’s role in managing and regulating water resources in Jammu and Kashmir.
Chief Secretary Highlights Experience and Expectations
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo congratulated Suresh Kumar Gupta on his appointment. He emphasised Gupta’s extensive administrative background and expertise in natural resource management.
Dulloo noted that Gupta’s experience is expected to significantly contribute to the authority’s mission of ensuring sustainable, equitable, and efficient water resource management across the Union Territory.
Role and Importance of JKWRRA
The Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources Regulatory Authority (JKWRRA) is a statutory body responsible for the regulation, development, management, and conservation of water resources in the region.
Its key responsibilities include:
- Promoting integrated water resource management
- Ensuring water security for present and future needs
- Advising the government on sustainable water utilisation policies
- Overseeing regulation and conservation frameworks
The authority plays a crucial role in maintaining balance between development needs and environmental sustainability.
Suresh Kumar Gupta’s Appointment and Background
Suresh Kumar Gupta’s appointment, effective from June 9, 2026, has been made under the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act, 2010.
Gupta is a distinguished officer of the 1991 Indian Forest Service (IFS) batch with over three decades of experience in public administration, environmental governance, and natural resource conservation.
During his career, he has served in several key positions, including Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, where he focused on environmental protection and sustainable resource management in Jammu and Kashmir.
Commitment to Sustainable Water Governance
Upon assuming office, Suresh Kumar Gupta expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him. He reiterated his commitment to strengthening water governance systems in the Union Territory.
He stated that his focus will be on:
- Promoting sustainable and efficient water usage
- Enhancing regulatory mechanisms for water resources
- Ensuring equitable distribution and conservation of water
- Supporting long-term environmental sustainability
