Mr. S.V. Prasad has assumed charge on Thursday as Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh. An officer of 1975 batch succeeded P Ramakanthan Reddy, who retired from service on Thursday. Prior to his elevation as Chief Secretary, he was Chief Commissioner of Land Administration. Mr Prasad previously served as Principal Secretary to Chief Ministers Janardhana Reddy, Vijaya Bhaskara Reddy and Chnadrbabu Naidu. Mr Ramakantha Reddy has also taken charge as State Election Commissioner.