Vijay Vishwas Pant Takes Charge as Lucknow Divisional Commissioner

Vijay Vishwas Pant, a 2004-batch IAS officer, officially assumed the role of divisional commissioner of Lucknow on Saturday afternoon. He takes over from Roshan Jacob, who held the position for over three years. Pant, at 46 years old, previously served as the divisional commissioner of Prayagraj, where he was instrumental in organizing this year’s significant Mahakumbh event.

Upon taking charge, Pant shared his primary objectives with the media, emphasizing a strong focus on enhancing public health, particularly in rural areas of the division. He stated, “A first-time mother and immunisation programme for the newborn are critical for ensuring good health outcomes. This will be a major focus, particularly in rural pockets where awareness is often lacking.” Pant, who holds a BTech degree in electrical engineering, highlighted the gap in awareness regarding government schemes available for maternal and child healthcare.

“I will mobilise all available resources and administrative machinery to deliver improved health services to citizens in rural areas,” he added. This commitment indicates a proactive approach to addressing the challenges faced by new parents in accessing essential health services.

Addressing Traffic Issues and Development Goals

Pant’s expertise in crowd management during his tenure in Prayagraj also came to the forefront when he was questioned about the ongoing traffic challenges in the state capital. He plans to meet with Lucknow Police Commissioner Amrendra Singh and District Magistrate Vishak G to evaluate the situation. “I’m confident they’ve already been working on it, and I’ll contribute wherever necessary. Together, as a team, we aim to provide some much-needed relief from traffic woes,” he stated.

He specifically mentioned the frequent traffic jams in Hazratganj, particularly during peak office hours and school dismissal times. Pant reiterated his commitment to collaborate closely with the chief minister and senior officials to fulfil development goals for the division. “We must function as a tightly-knit team. Alongside the DM, police commissioner, and other officials, we will strive to make Lucknow a better place for its citizens,” he stated.

Pant’s Extensive Administrative Background

A look at Pant’s career reveals a wealth of experience, having served as district magistrate in various districts, including Mahoba, Sonbhadra, Mainpuri, and Kanpur Nagar. His background also includes roles as managing director for the Eastern and Western Electricity Distribution Corporations in Uttar Pradesh.

Pant’s experience encompasses both state and central governments; he has served as a private secretary in New Delhi and as secretary in the Department of Medical, Health and Family Welfare in the UP government. Before his current assignment in Lucknow, he held the position of divisional commissioner in both Azamgarh and Prayagraj.

With his diverse experience and clear priorities, Vijay Vishwas Pant is positioned to make a significant impact during his tenure as the divisional commissioner of Lucknow.