RS Secretary General Yogendra Narain to retire on Sep 14

New Delhi, Sep 10 (UNI) The Rajya Sabha today paid glowing tributes to its Secretary General Yogendra Narain, who demits office on September 14 after a nearly five-year stint, for his administrative abilities and illustrious contributions to the smooth functioning of the House.

In his laudatory message, Chairman Hamid Ansari said Mr Narain performed his duties with honesty, tact and dedication and helped in the smooth conduct of the House.

''A soft-spoken person, he could endear himself to all,'' said Mr Ansari, wishing him a long life and sound health.

The Chair's observation was greeted with cheers and thumping of desks, and Mr Narain, known for his genteel demeanour, stood and bowed before the members, acknowledging their feelings.

Pending the appointment of a new Secretary General, Additional Secretary N C Joshi would look after the post, the Chairman announced.

Mr Narain joined the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in July 1965 and worked in various capacities at the Centre and in the Uttar Pradesh government.

While at the Centre, he served as Secretary, Defence and Secretary, Surface Transport. He also served a stint as Political Secretary to the Uttar Pradesh Governor.

In September 2002, he was appointed Secretary General of the Rajya Sabha.

Mr Ansari also described the retiring Secretary General as ''a prolific writer and an avid sports lover.'' He wrote 'ABC of Public Relations for Civil Servants', besides an anthology of poems, titled 'Cloud and Other Poems'.

UNI