Ravi Agrawal Appointed CBDT Chief, Succeeds Nitin Gupta

Ravi Agrawal, a 1988-batch IRS officer, has been appointed as the new chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). He succeeds Nitin Gupta, whose tenure ended on June 30, 2024. Agrawal’s appointment extends till June 2025, with a reappointment on a contract basis to ensure continuity in CBDT’s policy framework.

Background and Role

Previously serving as a member (administration) in the board, Agrawal’s extended tenure aims to oversee critical tax policy decisions and manage upcoming Union government budgets in July 2024 and February 2025. His reappointment under special conditions underscores the significance of continuity in CBDT’s leadership.

Board Structure and Members

The CBDT, headed by a chairman, operates with six members of special secretary rank, including Pragya Sahay Saksena, HBS Gill, Pravin Kumar, Sanjay Kumar, and Sanjay Kumar Verma, who retires on June 30, 2024.

CBDT : key points

Function: CBDT administers direct taxes such as income tax, corporate tax, and wealth tax.

Structure: Headed by a chairman, CBDT can have up to six members in the rank of special secretary.

Policy Making: Responsible for formulating policies related to direct taxes and ensuring their implementation.

Authority: Exercises control and supervision over the Income Tax Department.

Tenure: Chairman and members are appointed by the government, with the chairman typically serving a fixed term.