In a key administrative reshuffle, Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth has been assigned the additional role of Secretary of the Revenue Department, effective immediately, as per a government order issued on Tuesday. This follows the appointment of the outgoing Revenue Secretary, Sanjay Malhotra, as the new Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Malhotra's three-year term as RBI Governor commenced on December 11, 2024.
The government order stated: "The Competent Authority has approved the assignment of additional charge of the post of Secretary, Department of Revenue, to Ajay Seth, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, with immediate effect, until the appointment of a regular incumbent or further orders, whichever comes first."
Ajay Seth: A Seasoned IAS Officer with Vast Expertise
Ajay Seth, a 1987-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Karnataka cadre, has been serving as Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs since April 2021. With over three decades of experience in public finance and social sector administration, Seth is well-regarded for his extensive expertise in:
- Budgeting and tax policy
- Foreign investments and development financing
- Bilateral and multilateral financial cooperation
- Public-private partnerships (PPPs)
Seth holds a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA, which complement his strategic and operational skills in economic and revenue administration.
Transition Amid Critical Economic Challenges
Seth’s additional role comes at a crucial time as the Department of Revenue continues its efforts to address key challenges such as tax compliance, combating tax evasion, and optimizing revenue collection. His leadership is expected to bring continuity and strategic direction to the department during this transition period.
Official copy of the order is as follows
CAclubindia
