Srinagar: The Central Government has appointed Amit Sharma as the Director of Census Operations and Civil Registration for the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

According to administrative sources, Amit Sharma, an IAS officer of the 2012 AGMUT cadre, assumed charge on Thursday following his central deputation.

Sources indicate that the appointment is part of preparations for the next phase of the census. This includes updating records, coordinating with district authorities, and strengthening field units in difficult geographical terrains.

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Administrative sources state that Sharma will oversee staff, logistics, data validation systems, and district-level coordination to ensure the smooth execution of the census process in both Union Territories.

The post had remained vacant for a long period without a full-time officer. Officials noted that the appointment reflects renewed governmental focus on demographic and registration practices in the region, following years of delays.

Sharma has previously held several administrative positions in northeastern and Himalayan states. His experience includes senior roles connected to digital governance, infrastructure development, and public administration.

The Directorate of Census Operations is responsible for creating and updating vital household records. This includes the civil registration framework essential for population statistics, governance planning, public welfare distribution, and administrative policy formulation.