Dr. Rathan U. Kelkar IAS – A Dynamic Administrator Leading Kerala’s Electoral Reforms

Dr. Rathan U. Kelkar, IAS, currently serves as the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Kerala, playing a crucial role in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections in the state. A senior officer of the Indian Administrative Service, he assumed this position in December 2024, bringing with him a wealth of administrative experience and a strong commitment to public service.

As CEO, Dr. Kelkar oversees the entire election process in Kerala, including voter registration, electoral roll management, enforcement of election laws, and promoting voter awareness. Under his leadership, Kerala has seen significant advancements in electoral reforms, transparency, and citizen engagement.

He has focused especially on youth voter participation, the elimination of duplicate registrations, and voter education programs. Initiatives like the launch of a centralized voter helpline (1950), and his active role in addressing electoral malpractices have earned him widespread recognition.

Dr. Rathan U. Kelkar continues to uphold the democratic values of the Constitution through efficient and transparent election management in Kerala.