The Narendra Modi government has appointed TV Somanathan, a 1987 batch Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officer, as the new Cabinet Secretary for a two-year term. Somanathan will replace Rajiv Gauba, a 1982 batch IAS officer who served an unprecedented five-year term in the position.
According to an official statement, “The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Shri TV Somanathan, IAS (TN:87), as Officer on Special Duty in the Cabinet Secretariat, effective from the date he assumes the assignment until he formally takes over as Cabinet Secretary.”
Who is T.V. Somanathan?
T.V. Somanathan is a distinguished civil servant who joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1987, securing the second rank in his batch. He was honored with the Gold Medal for being the Best IAS Probationer.
Throughout his career, Somanathan has held several key positions. He has served as Additional Secretary and Joint Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, as well as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. His international experience includes a role as Director at the World Bank.
In Tamil Nadu, Somanathan has contributed significantly in various capacities, including Deputy Secretary of Budget, Joint Vigilance Commissioner, Executive Director of Metrowater, Secretary to the Chief Minister, Additional Chief Secretary, and Commissioner of Commercial Taxes.
Academically, Somanathan holds a PhD and an MA in Economics from Calcutta University. He has furthered his education with the Executive Development Program at Harvard Business School and is a qualified Chartered Accountant and Company Secretary.
