1989-Batch IAS Officer Takes Charge in South Block, Ministry of Defence
Rajesh Kumar Singh, a distinguished senior bureaucrat and 1989-batch IAS officer from the Kerala cadre, officially assumed his new role as India’s Defence Secretary on Friday at the South Block, which houses the Ministry of Defence. Singh’s appointment follows a long and esteemed career across multiple key government roles.
Honoring Fallen Heroes at the National War Memorial
Upon assuming his new responsibilities, Singh paid tribute to India’s fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial. Reflecting on the sacrifice and bravery of the nation’s armed forces, Singh stated, “Our nation will always remain indebted to the brave soldiers who make the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Their courage and dedication inspire us to work toward a safe and prosperous India.” His words underscore his commitment to advancing India’s defense policies and ensuring national security.
Previous Roles in Government Service
Rajesh Kumar Singh has an extensive background in government service, with significant contributions to various departments at both the national and state levels. Prior to his current role, he served as the Officer on Special Duty (Defence Secretary-Designate) starting August 20, 2024.
Key Positions in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
From April 2023 to August 2024, Singh held the position of Secretary in the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. In this role, he was instrumental in promoting industrial policies aimed at boosting trade and industry growth in India.
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Contributions to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying
Before joining the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Singh served as the Secretary in the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, where he played a pivotal role in shaping policies to enhance the dairy and animal husbandry sectors.
Career Highlights and Leadership in Various Government Roles
Throughout his illustrious career, Rajesh Kumar Singh has held numerous key roles across various government sectors:
- Director of Works and Urban Transport in the Ministry of Urban Development, where he focused on infrastructure and urban transport initiatives.
- Commissioner (Lands) with the Delhi Development Authority, overseeing land development projects.
- Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, contributing to policy development for India’s energy sector.
- Joint Secretary in the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare, where he worked on policies to support the agriculture sector.
- Chief Vigilance Officer in the Food Corporation of India, promoting transparency and ethical practices.
Service in the Kerala Government
In addition to his central government roles, Singh also served as Urban Development Secretary and Finance Secretary in the Kerala government, where he focused on urban planning, economic development, and financial management within the state.
Singh Succeeds Giridhar Aramane
Rajesh Kumar Singh replaces Giridhar Aramane, a 1988-batch IAS officer from the Andhra Pradesh cadre, who retired on Thursday. Singh’s diverse experience and leadership qualities are expected to bring a new strategic focus to India’s defense policies as he takes up his new responsibilities as Defence Secretary.
A New Chapter for India’s Defence Ministry
With his extensive experience and dedication, Rajesh Kumar Singh’s appointment as Defence Secretary marks a promising new chapter for India’s defense initiatives. His background in urban development, industry promotion, agriculture, and animal husbandry equips him to address the multidimensional challenges facing the Ministry of Defence. His commitment to safeguarding national security and honoring India’s armed forces aligns with the country’s vision for a resilient and secure future.
For more updates on Rajesh Kumar Singh’s tenure and future initiatives in India’s defense sector, stay tuned.
