The preparation for the Union Budget 2026 is proceeding smoothly, even though the crucial role of Finance Secretary has been vacant since June 2025. Ministry officials have confirmed that 'business as usual' prevails, with established inter-departmental processes ensuring no disruption. The Finance Minister is working with a team that includes several new secretaries, but many have prior experience within the ministry, ensuring continuity and expertise.
The Finance Secretary, regarded as the "first among equals" within the Ministry of Finance, plays a pivotal role in coordinating day-to-day functioning and steering the Union Budget preparation process. The post has remained vacant since the retirement of former Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth
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FAQ :
No, the post of Finance Secretary has remained vacant since the retirement of Ajay Seth on June 30, 2025.
No, Finance Ministry sources have emphasised that Budget-related work is progressing smoothly and without disruption, with individual departments carrying out their responsibilities.
The team includes new secretaries such as Arvind Shrivastava as Revenue Secretary, V Vualnam as Expenditure Secretary, and Anuradha Prasad as Economic Affairs Secretary.
Yes, while new to their current roles, none of the new secretaries are new to the Ministry of Finance and bring relevant prior experience.
Yes, the Chairman of the CBDT, Ravi Agrawal, received an extension until June 30, 2026. Vivek Chaturvedi took charge as the Chairman of the CBIC on December 1, 2025.