1985 Batch IAS Ajay Kumar Becomes New UPSC Chairman: Know His Achievements, Appointment and Key Details

Ajay Kumar UPSC New Chairman: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has appointed Dr. Ajay Kumar, a retired 1985-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre, as its new Chairman. An alumnus of IIT Kanpur with a PhD and MS from the University of Minnesota, he is known for his leadership in major national reforms such as the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff, Agniveer scheme, and Digital India initiatives. He took over the top role at UPSC following the completion of the tenure of his predecessor, Preeti Sudan. Dr. Kumar, one of India’s most distinguished bureaucrats, brings decades of administrative experience and is well-known for his impactful reforms in defence and technology.

About UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar

Ajay Kumar is an alumnus of IIT Kanpur and holds a PhD in Business Administration along with an MS in Applied Economics from the University of Minnesota, USA. He is widely recognized for his dynamic contributions across several government departments and for leading major national initiatives during his service.

UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar: Appointment and Career Highlights

Dr. Ajay Kumar served as the Defence Secretary of India from August 23, 2019, to October 31, 2022, making him the longest-serving defence secretary in the country. He played a central role in the implementation of key reforms such as the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff, the Agniveer scheme, corporatisation of Ordnance Factories, and the AtmaNirbhar Bharat initiative in defence.

In addition to his achievements in the defence sector, he was a pivotal figure in driving the Digital India movement. While serving in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Dr. Kumar was instrumental in implementing projects like UPI, Aadhaar, MyGov, and the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).

UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar: Contributions to Electronics and IT

A notable achievement in his tenure was the formulation of the National Electronics Policy 2012, which played a foundational role in boosting India’s electronics and mobile manufacturing industry. His vision and policy leadership significantly contributed to India's digital infrastructure and governance systems.

UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar: Diverse Administrative Roles

Throughout his career, Dr. Ajay Kumar has worked with governments led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, and the Left, effectively demonstrating his adaptability and administrative acumen. He held several key positions in both the Government of India and the Government of Kerala, including roles such as Principal Secretary and Managing Director of KELTRON.

The appointment of Ajay Kumar as the UPSC Chairman brings a wealth of experience and visionary leadership to India’s top recruiting agency. With his exemplary track record in policy-making, administration, and reform implementation, he is expected to strengthen the functioning of the UPSC and further enhance its role in selecting the country’s top civil servants.