The Goa government has formally appealed to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to cancel or defer the transfer order of IAS officer Prasad Lolayekar, currently serving as Education Secretary. Citing the critical need for leadership continuity during the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the state has emphasized that Lolayekar's continued presence is essential to steer key reforms underway.
Lolayekar was transferred to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands in September 2024 as part of a routine AGMUT cadre reshuffle, with instructions to join his new post within 15 days. However, the Goa government has pushed back against the transfer, stressing that his leadership is vital as the state works toward completing NEP implementation by 2027, with full infrastructure and policy integration targeted for 2030.
Despite Goa’s repeated requests, the MHA has stood firm. In recent communications, the ministry stated that all representations for cancellation or deferment of transfers have already been reviewed and closed. It warned that officers who do not report to their new assignments within the prescribed timeframe would be considered ‘Stand Relieved’ and could face disciplinary action, including possible debarment from promotions and other service-related penalties.
As of now, Lolayekar has not taken charge of his new posting, and the Goa government has submitted a fresh proposal seeking reconsideration. A response from the MHA is still pending.
Lolayekar has played a key role in driving Goa’s education reforms, including shifting the academic calendar to an April start and introducing competency-based assessments aligned with NEP 2020. State officials argue that maintaining consistent leadership during this formative phase is crucial, as it allows space for policy innovation and gradual adaptation ahead of the full-scale rollout in 2030.
The final decision now rests with the MHA, which continues to uphold a strict policy on cadre transfers, leaving the future of Goa’s education leadership—and its pace of NEP implementation—in a state of uncertainty.