🔊 Take a moment and listen

The Union government has announced the appointment of T.V. Somanathan as the Cabinet Secretary-designate. Somanathan, a distinguished 1987-batch IAS officer from the Tamil Nadu cadre, will transition from his current role as Secretary of expenditure, in the Ministry of Finance to the Cabinet Secretariat. He is set to assume India’s highest bureaucratic position on August 30, following the conclusion of Rajiv Gauba’s extended tenure.

Somanathan, known for his low-profile yet highly effective approach, was the natural choice for this prestigious role. His impressive career spans both state and central government roles, including key positions in the Chief Minister’s Office in Tamil Nadu, as well as in the Prime Minister’s Office at the Joint Secretary and Additional Secretary levels. He has also held prominent positions in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, and Finance, and was instrumental in the financial closure of the Chennai Metro Rail project. His extensive experience also includes a significant tenure at the World Bank, where he served in various capacities, including as Director between 2011 and 2015.

Somanathan’s academic credentials are equally impressive. He holds a PhD in Economics and is a qualified Chartered Accountant, Cost Accountant, and Company Secretary. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated expertise in public finance and policy, contributing numerous papers and articles to journals and newspapers, and authoring two books along with chapters in several others.

Given his vast expertise in economics and public finance, Somanathan was seen as a leading candidate for various high-profile roles, including the potential successor to Shaktikanta Das as RBI Governor. However, his appointment as Cabinet Secretary reflects the government’s recognition of his unparalleled talent and dedication to public service.

A senior Union government official described Somanathan’s appointment as an “inspired choice,” highlighting his professionalism and ability to remain focused on his duties without engaging in political manoeuvring. Known for his straightforwardness, Somanathan is highly regarded for his capacity to navigate the complexities of government while maintaining integrity and effectiveness in his work.

Somanathan’s elevation to the position of Cabinet Secretary marks a significant milestone in his distinguished career, where his wealth of experience and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the continued strength and stability of India’s central administration.

Be a part of Elets Collaborative Initiatives. Join Us for Upcoming Events and explore business opportunities. Like us on Facebook , connect with us on LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter, Instagram.