With Rajasthan Chief Secretary V. Srinivas set to complete his tenure on August 31, the Rajasthan government has begun a quiet but politically sensitive search for his successor. Officers on deputation to Centre are understood to be in part of the discussions, but sources say a senior woman IAS officer is also in the race, keeping the contest open and watchful. Among the names being discussed in administrative circles, Abhay Kumar has emerged as a strong contender on seniority and experience, while Rajat Kumar Mishra and Akhil Arora are also being watched closely. The final decision will hinge on service profile, Centre-state coordination and the government’s comfort with continuity at the top. For now, the process has clearly moved into the consideration stage, with no official announcement yet and a surprise pick not ruled out.