T. Pandey Revenue Secretary and A. Chawla Secretary DIPAM Appointed

On January 8, 2025, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved significant changes in top positions within the Ministry of Finance, ahead of the Union Budget 2025. These strategic appointments include the reassignment of Tuhin Kanta Pandey and Arunish Chawla to key roles. These reshuffles are seen as pivotal as the government prepares for the budget presentation by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2025. The changes reflect a continued focus on strengthening the finance ministry’s leadership for critical policy decisions and financial management.

Key Changes

Tuhin Kanta Pandey

• New Role: Secretary, Department of Revenue
• Continued Role: Finance Secretary

Background

• IAS Officer, 1987 batch (Odisha cadre)
• Played a crucial role in the privatization of Air India and the public listing of LIC
• Holds a master’s degree in economics and an MBA from the UK
• Known for effective financial and administrative reforms

Arunish Chawla

• New Role: Secretary, Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM)
• Additional Charge: Secretary, Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) and Ministry of Culture

Background

• IAS Officer, 1992 batch (Bihar cadre)
• Former Secretary, Pharma in the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilisers
• Recently appointed as the new Revenue Secretary on December 25, 2024