Former Development Commissioner R Balakrishnan, who superannuated from the IAS recently, was on Thursday appointed as the Special Initiatives Chief Advisor in the rank of Chief Secretary.
A Planning and Convergence Department notification said the appointment was made by the order of the Governor.
Balakrishnan would look after special development councils, the tribal museum, the craft museum, the Odia University and the Odia Virtual Academy. He would report directly to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, the notification added.
He would work on an honorary basis and not draw any remuneration. In order to facilitate his assignment, he would be provided with an office with supporting staffs, vehicles and residential quarters for accommodation.