In a major development in India’s financial administration, senior bureaucrat Ajay Seth has been appointed as the new Finance Secretary, according to an official order issued by the Ministry of Personnel on Monday, March 24.
Seth, a 1987-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Karnataka cadre, succeeds Tuhin Kanta Pandey, who recently stepped down from the position to take over as the Chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) earlier this month.
Experience of Ajay Seth
Ajay Seth brings over three decades of experience in economic policymaking, public finance, and taxation. Before this appointment, he was serving as the Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), where he played a key role in shaping India’s financial policies.
Additionally, Seth was recently given the additional charge of the Department of Revenue, further highlighting his leadership in economic governance. His expertise is expected to be instrumental in guiding India’s financial strategy in areas such as fiscal management, economic growth, and policy reforms.
Ajay Seth Academic Background and Achievements
Ajay Seth holds a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Roorkee and an MBA from Ateneo de Manila University. His academic credentials, combined with his administrative experience, make him well-equipped to handle the complex financial challenges of the country.
During his tenure in Karnataka, he made significant contributions to the state’s commercial tax administration and was honored with the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration in 2013 for his efforts in tax system reforms.
Challenges and Expectations Ahead
As Finance Secretary, Seth will be responsible for overseeing India’s fiscal policies, government expenditure, and economic growth strategies. His appointment comes at a crucial time when India is focusing on economic recovery, financial sector stability, and global investment growth.
With his vast experience and expertise, Ajay Seth is expected to drive policies that will strengthen India’s financial sector, improve tax administration, and ensure sustainable economic development.
