The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved a two-year extension in the central deputation tenure of Vinod Seshan, a 2008-batch IAS officer, as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG).
The extension has been approved beyond March 8, 2027, for a period of two years or until further orders, whichever is earlier. The decision was communicated through a Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) order dated October 6, 2026.
Seshan to Continue in Petroleum Ministry
Seshan, a 2008-batch IAS officer of the Assam cadre, is currently serving as Joint Secretary in the Petroleum Ministry.
The extension was approved by the ACC following a proposal from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, allowing Seshan to continue in his present role beyond the end of his existing tenure.
He joined the ministry on central deputation in March 2022, initially taking charge as Director under the Central Staffing Scheme before being elevated to the Joint Secretary level.
More Than Two Decades of Professional Experience
Seshan has over 20 years of professional experience, with more than 17 years involving policymaking, programme implementation, development and infrastructure project management, district administration and crisis response.
Before entering the IAS, he worked in India’s software services sector, where his experience included software development, testing and knowledge management.
During his administrative career, he has also served on the boards of government-owned companies, including Oil India Limited and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited.
Academic Background
Seshan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering. He also has master’s-level qualifications in Public Policy and Infrastructure, Investment and Finance from University College London.
His professional interests include large infrastructure projects, financing models and sustainability.
Government Nominee Director on ONGC Board
Seshan was appointed in March 2026 as a Government Nominee Director on the Board of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC).
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His appointment to the ONGC Board was for a three-year period on a co-terminus basis or until further orders.
With the latest ACC approval, Seshan will continue his responsibilities in the Petroleum Ministry, extending his tenure at the Centre and his involvement in the country’s energy-sector administration.