In the recent reshuffling of Secretaries in Centre, one name got's everyone's attention that was Vikram Dev Dutt whose appointment as Coal Secretary came under power corridor's spotlight. Sources say that power corridors have given mixed response to this development.  At one end's power corridor view Dutt's removal as result of his sub-average response to Airlines affairs these days. On the other hand power corridor see this as reward and showcase of competency. The argument advanced by later seem to carry much more credence than the former. As these hoax threats require collective response and not single institutional response as far as Dutt's mandate was concerned he had hit the nail on the head.

Top sources highlight Vikram Dev Dutt's significant tenure at DGCA, where he steered the regulatory body to the highest standards and enhanced its oversight reach. Under his leadership, the agency saw a substantial 77 percent increase in enforcement actions, a figure significantly higher than in 2022 and under his predecessors. Dutt's efficient execution and administrative delivery skills were instrumental in achieving these results. His three-prong regulatory tactic was particularly effective.

Dutt's strategic changes at DGCA were instrumental in improving surveillance and compliance. He re-organized the surveillance capabilities, leading to increased detection. His push for strict compliance to norms put bigwig airlines under DGCA's radar. He also increased oversight to personnel, enabling a 360-degree regulation of the Civil aviation industry. 

With the return of Amrit Lal Meena to his state as Chief Secretary few months back, who successfully navigated the Coal Ministry through tough times and expanded the role of coal in India's energy mix, the need for an efficient administrator in the ministry became even more pronounced. Dutt's performance, which was set on a good trajectory, made him a favorable choice to lead the ministry, highlighting the urgency and importance of his appointment. As Dutt assumes the role of Coal Secretary, the promising trajectory of improving India's coal quality and energy mix appears to be secured for the foreseeable future.