Who is Vijay Kiran Anand, New CEO of Invest UP?
Vijay Kiran Anand, a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 2009 batch from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Invest UP, the state’s investment promotion agency. His appointment marks a significant step in Uttar Pradesh's efforts to enhance its industrial and economic landscape. With a robust background in public administration, finance, and event management, Anand is poised to steer Invest UP towards fostering a conducive environment for business and investment in the state.
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| Sh. Vijay Kiran Anand, CEO, Invest UP |
Early Life and Education
Born in Bengaluru on November 22, 1979, Vijay Kiran Anand pursued Chartered Accountancy before setting his sights on the Indian Civil Services. His academic achievements laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors in public administration. Anand's diverse educational background reflects his multifaceted approach to problem-solving and governance.
Civil Services Journey
Anand's journey in the civil services began with his selection in the 2008 Civil Services Examination, where he secured an impressive All India Rank of 32. Opting for the Uttar Pradesh cadre, he underwent training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. His initial postings included serving as Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Baghpat and Chief Development Officer (CDO) in Barabanki, where he gained invaluable experience in grassroots administration and rural development.
Over the years, Anand held several key positions, including District Magistrate (DM) in Mainpuri, Unnao, Firozabad, Varanasi, Shahjahanpur, and Gorakhpur. His tenure in these districts was marked by a focus on infrastructure development, welfare schemes, and efficient governance. Notably, during his time as DM of Gorakhpur, Anand's exemplary leadership earned him the Prime Minister's Award for Excellence in Public Administration in 2020.
Contributions to Education and Public Welfare
Beyond district administration, Anand has significantly contributed to the education sector in Uttar Pradesh. He served as Director General of School Education, Special Secretary for Basic Education, and Director of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme. In these roles, he implemented reforms aimed at enhancing the quality of education, improving infrastructure, and ensuring effective delivery of welfare schemes. His initiatives led to better learning outcomes and increased enrollment in schools across the state.
Leadership in Managing Major Religious Events
Anand's expertise in managing large-scale events was demonstrated through his leadership in organizing the Magh Mela in 2017 and the Ardh Kumbh Mela in 2019. His meticulous planning and execution ensured the smooth conduct of these significant religious gatherings, earning him widespread acclaim. In 2025, he was entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the Mahakumbh 2025, a monumental event that draws millions of devotees. Under his leadership, the event was marked by enhanced security measures, efficient logistics, and a spiritually enriching experience for attendees.
Appointment as CEO of Invest UP
In April 2025, Vijay Kiran Anand was appointed as the CEO of Invest UP, succeeding the outgoing CEO. This strategic move aligns with the Uttar Pradesh government's vision to position the state as a premier investment destination in India. Anand's appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Invest UP, leveraging his administrative acumen and experience in managing large-scale projects.
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| Meeting by Hon'ble CM Yogi Adityanath Ji at Invest UP HQ |
Vision for Invest UP
As CEO, Anand is focused on transforming Invest UP into a dynamic agency that actively promotes investment opportunities in Uttar Pradesh. His approach emphasizes transparency, efficiency, and a proactive stance in addressing investor concerns. Anand aims to streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and create a business-friendly environment that attracts both domestic and international investors.
Under his leadership, Invest UP is expected to play a pivotal role in facilitating industrial growth, creating employment opportunities, and contributing to the overall economic development of Uttar Pradesh. Anand's strategic vision includes fostering innovation, supporting startups, and enhancing infrastructure to make the state an attractive investment hub.
Vijay Kiran Anand's appointment as CEO of Invest UP marks a new chapter in Uttar Pradesh's journey towards economic prosperity. With his rich administrative experience, financial expertise, and proven track record in managing large-scale events, Anand is well-equipped to lead Invest UP in its mission to attract investments and drive sustainable development in the state. His leadership is expected to inspire confidence among investors and stakeholders, paving the way for a brighter economic future for Uttar Pradesh.
Note: The information provided in this post is based on publicly available sources and may be subject to change. For the most current updates, please refer to official announcements from Invest UP and related government agencies.
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