Manisha Mhaiskar Appointed Maharashtra ACS Home; Nagpur Connection Highlighted

Nagpur: The Maharashtra government has appointed Manisha Mhaiskar as the new Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the Home Department, following the retirement of Iqbal Singh Chahal. A 1992-batch IAS officer, Mhaiskar previously headed the Public Works Department (PWD). Her husband, Milind Mhaiskar, who was managing the Forest Department, has now been assigned responsibility for the PWD.

Mhaiskar’s appointment underscores a growing administrative influence from Nagpur, as she hails from the city and will now lead the crucial Home Department. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also holds the Home portfolio, strengthening the administrative link. Additionally, State Minister for Home Pankaj Bhoyar represents the neighboring Wardha district.

Career and Achievements

Manisha Mhaiskar has held several key positions in her career. Under her leadership, the PWD topped the e-governance evaluation linked to the Maharashtra government’s 150-day performance milestones. Known for her integrity and proactive approach, Mhaiskar is expected to enhance transparency and efficiency in the Home Department, which remains under constant public and administrative scrutiny.

Nagpur Roots and Early Life

Mhaiskar, a native of Nagpur, has often expressed her fondness for the city despite her extensive national and international experience. Her father, Arun Patankar, inspired her to pursue a career in civil services at a time when societal expectations leaned toward arranging her marriage to an IAS officer. She initially pursued MBBS at Nagpur’s Government Medical College, one of Asia’s largest colleges at the time, but later decided to follow her passion for civil service. She also considered pursuing a five-year LLB program before committing fully to the IAS path.

Personal Life

Her husband, Milind Mhaiskar, is also an IAS officer of the Maharashtra cadre. The couple faced personal tragedy in 2017 when their only son passed away by suicide. Following this, Manisha underwent IVF treatment and is now mother to two daughters.

Mhaiskar’s reputation for efficiency and an unblemished record has made her a suitable choice for the ACS Home position, particularly at a time when Maharashtra’s bureaucracy is preparing for post-local-body election reshuffles.