New Delhi, Feb. 22 -- Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das has been appointed Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to a government notification. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet stated that Das' term will be co-terminus with that of the Prime Minister or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Das, who served as RBI Governor from 2018 to 2023, played a key role in steering India through significant financial challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent economic recovery. His tenure was marked by decisive monetary policies and effective crisis management, earning him recognition within government circles and the financial sector.
During the pandemic, he led the central bank's response by implementing various conventional and unconventional measures across monetary policy, liquidity management, and regulatory frameworks. These efforts were aimed at maintaining financial stability while supporting economic growth during a period of global uncertainty. His appointment comes at a time when the Indian government is emphasizing stronger economic policies and financial governance. In his new role as Principal Secretary-2, Das is expected to offer strategic advice on crucial economic and financial issues, strengthening the government's decision-making process.
Meanwhile, the tenure of NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam has been extended by a year, starting February 24, 2025. A retired 1987-batch IAS officer, Subrahmanyam was appointed to the role in February 2023 for an initial two-year term. With over four decades of experience in various sectors, including finance, taxation, infrastructure, and industries, Das brings extensive governance expertise from his roles in both central and state governments.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.