Senior Tamil Nadu bureaucrat Beela Venkatesan, a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, passed away on September 24, 2025, at the age of 56. She was a 1997-batch IAS officer, was serving as the Energy Secretary of Tamil Nadu when she passed away.
Senior Tamil Nadu Bureaucrat Beela Venkatesan Passes Away
Serving as the Energy Secretary of Tamil Nadu at the time of her passing, Beela Venkatesan was a prominent figure in the state’s administrative landscape. She was undergoing treatment for a brain tumor at a private hospital in Chennai. Her demise has left the state in mourning, with tributes pouring in from various quarters.
Born in 1969 in Kanniyakumari district, she was the daughter of former DGP L.N. Venkatesan and Congress leader Rani Venkatesan, a former legislator. Prior to her tenure as Energy Secretary, she held significant positions, including Health Secretary during the critical period of the COVID-19 pandemic. She was widely recognized for her pivotal role during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Cause of Death
Reports indicate she had been battling a brain tumor for a long period. She had been on leave for several months to undergo treatment for her illness. While sources initially mentioned she died of cancer, more specific reports cited the brain tumor as the cause.
Early Life and Education
Beela Venkatesan completed her MBBS from Madras Medical College, showcasing her commitment to public service from an early age. She joined the IAS in 1997 and began her career in Bihar and Jharkhand before transferring to Tamil Nadu. Her diverse roles across various departments reflected her versatility and dedication to governance.
Role in Tamil Nadu’s COVID-19 Response
In 2020, during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Beela Venkatesan was appointed as the Health Secretary of Tamil Nadu. Her leadership was instrumental in managing the state’s response to the crisis. She became a familiar face to the public through daily media briefings, providing updates and guidance during the challenging times. Her strategies emphasized inclusion and trust, particularly during the Tablighi Jamaat cluster incident, where she spearheaded a statewide tracing effort involving health officials, police networks, and community leaders.
Subsequent Roles and Final Years
After her tenure as Health Secretary, Beela Venkatesan continued to serve in various capacities within the Tamil Nadu government. She held positions in departments such as finance, education, and municipal administration. Since June 2023, she had been serving as the Secretary of the Energy Department. Throughout her career, she was known for her commitment to public service and her ability to navigate complex administrative challenges.
Personal Life and Legacy
Beela Venkatesan was married to IPS officer Rajesh Das. In December 2023, she officially changed her name from Beela Rajesh to Beela Venkatesan following personal circumstances. She is survived by two daughters. Her passing has left a void in the state’s administrative community, with colleagues and citizens alike remembering her for her dedication and service.
Final Word
Beela Venkatesan’s contributions to Tamil Nadu’s governance, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, have left an indelible mark. Her leadership, compassion, and commitment to public service continue to inspire those who had the privilege of working with her.
Thank you for reading this tribute to Beela Venkatesan.
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