Former Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar Takes Charge at UPSC

In a significant administrative development, Ajay Kumar, a retired 1985-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre and former Defence Secretary, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). With vast experience in defence reforms and digital governance, his appointment was approved by President Droupadi Murmu and fills the vacancy left after the completion of Preeti Sudan’s tenure on April 29, 2025.

Why in News?

Ajay Kumar’s appointment as the UPSC Chairman on May 14, 2025, is notable due to his exceptional bureaucratic track record and the crucial role UPSC plays in shaping India’s civil services. His leadership is expected to influence the examination and recruitment processes, ensuring merit-based, transparent selection of India’s top civil servants.

Profile Highlights

• Name: Ajay Kumar
• Batch & Cadre: 1985-batch IAS officer, Kerala cadre
• Previous Position: Defence Secretary (2019–2022)

Educational Background

• PhD in Business Administration
• MS in Applied Economics – University of Minnesota
• BTech – IIT Kanpur
• Fellow – Indian National Academy of Engineers

Key Achievements

Defence Reforms as Defence Secretary,

• Creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)
• Implementation of the Agniveer scheme
• Corporatisation of Ordnance Factories
• Promoting AtmaNirbhar Bharat in Defence Sector
• Digital India Contributions (as part of MeitY):
• Major role in rollout of UPI, Aadhaar, MyGov, Government e-Marketplace
• Architect of the National Electronics Policy 2012 – boosted mobile and electronics manufacturing in India

State Government Roles

• Served as Principal Secretary, MD of KELTRON (revived the PSU)

Static Facts about UPSC

• Constitutional Body under Article 315-323 of the Indian Constitution
• Primary Role: Conducts Civil Services Examinations (IAS, IPS, IFS, etc.)
• Composition: 1 Chairman + up to 10 Members
• Term: 6 years or until 65 years of age (whichever is earlier)
• Headquarters: Dholpur House, New Delhi

Significance of the Appointment

• Brings a multi-sectoral perspective—defence, IT, administration
• Known for efficiency, innovation, and strategic reforms
• May influence future recruitment policy changes, exam reforms, and inclusivity measures in UPSC processes