New collectors for Vellore, Tiruvannamalai are taking charge

Vellore Collector PS Leela Alex and Tiruvannamalai Collector Vandana Garg. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

PS Leela Alex and Vandana Garg took over as the new Collectors of Vellore and Tiruvannamalai districts on Sunday.

Outgoing Vellore Collector VR Subbulaxmi and Ms Alex exchanged pleasantries at the Collectorate. “As a historical city, Vellore is also growing faster in various fields. Efforts will be made to provide more jobs to unemployed youth. The administration will ensure 100% transparency as outlined by the state government,” Ms. Leela Alex told the media.

In Tiruvannamalai, Mrs. Garg, who was on leave before she was appointed Collector, came with her family, including two children, to the Collectorate. Ms. Garg was welcomed by outgoing Collector K. Tharpagaraj as she entered the Collector’s Chamber.

At first she couldn’t recognize him, saying that she had seen him somewhere. In a lighter vein, Mr Tharpagaraj introduced himself as the outgoing Collector of Tiruvannamalai. Everyone in the chamber immediately burst into laughter as Mrs. Garg covered her face with a smile. A video of the incident has gone viral on social media platforms. Mr. Tharpagaraj will take over as Director of Rehabilitation and Welfare of Non-Resident Tamils.

In her interaction with reporters, Ms. Garg said that the district is geographically vast and certain areas like Chengam are struggling with water scarcity. On the other hand, areas like Cheyyar are known for industry and urbanization. “I am confident that with the support of all government departments and the public, I will bring good changes in the district during my tenure,” she said.

Published – 01 Jun 2026 0:16 IST