In a significant milestone for India’s global financial governance credentials, senior IAS officer Vivek Aggarwal has been elected as the Vice-President of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), marking the first time an Indian representative will hold the prestigious position in the international body.
The appointment reflects India’s growing influence in shaping global efforts against money laundering, terrorist financing and other financial crimes, while reinforcing the country’s standing within the FATF Global Network.
Historic Achievement for India
Vivek Aggarwal, a 1994-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre and currently serving as Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, has been elected by the FATF Plenary to serve as the organisation’s Vice-President.
The position places an Indian official in one of the highest leadership roles within the Paris-based inter-governmental body responsible for setting global standards to combat illicit financial activities.
His appointment marks a first for India and is being viewed as a recognition of the country’s sustained contribution to strengthening the global anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing framework.
Recognition of India’s Global Role
India’s elevation to the FATF Vice-Presidency comes at a time when the country has been actively contributing to international discussions on emerging financial risks, including those related to virtual assets, digital payments and evolving financial technologies.
Officials noted that the appointment reflects the confidence reposed in India by the FATF Global Network, which comprises more than 200 jurisdictions worldwide.
India’s strong performance in its recent Mutual Evaluation and its active engagement in global policy discussions have further enhanced its credibility within the organisation.
Vivek Aggarwal Expresses Gratitude
Speaking on the development, Vivek Aggarwal described the appointment as a recognition of India’s collective efforts to build a robust anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing framework.
He said he looked forward to working with FATF members and partners to strengthen the resilience, security and inclusiveness of the global financial system.
Revenue Secretary Welcomes Appointment
Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava termed the development a proud moment for India and said it underlined the country’s continued commitment to preserving the integrity and transparency of the international financial system.
He noted that India has consistently supported global efforts to combat financial crimes and strengthen cooperation among nations.
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About the FATF
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is the global standard-setting body responsible for developing policies and recommendations to prevent money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing.
Headquartered in Paris, the organisation works closely with governments, regulators and financial institutions around the world to strengthen the international financial system.
The FATF President serves a two-year term, while the Vice-President supports the President in advancing the organisation’s agenda and coordinating activities across member jurisdictions.
Key Highlights
- Vivek Aggarwal elected Vice-President of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
- First time an Indian representative will hold the position.
- Aggarwal is a 1994-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre.
- Currently serving as Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
- FATF is the global body that sets standards to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
- Appointment reflects India’s growing influence in global financial governance.
- India’s strong FATF evaluation and policy contributions helped strengthen its standing.
- Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava described the development as a proud milestone for the country.