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Dr. Ajay Kumar Appointed as New Chairman of UPSC

Dr. Ajay Kumar, a retired IAS officer and former Defence Secretary, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). His extensive experience in government roles and significant contributions to defence reforms and digital initiatives position him as a strategic leader for UPSC. With a strong educational background, including degrees from IIT Kanpur and the University of Minnesota, Dr. Kumar's leadership is expected to enhance the commission's transparency and efficiency. His term will last for six years or until he turns 65, as he takes on the responsibility of overseeing civil service examinations in India.
By Ambika Singh May 14, 2025, 11:15 IST
Dr. Ajay Kumar Appointed as New Chairman of UPSC

Introduction to Dr. Ajay Kumar

The Indian government has designated Dr. Ajay Kumar, a retired IAS officer from the 1985 batch and former Defence Secretary, as the new Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). This appointment, sanctioned by President Droupadi Murmu, will commence following the conclusion of Preeti Sudan's term on April 29th. Discover more about Dr. Kumar's educational background and professional journey.


Dr. Ajay Kumar's Professional Journey

Dr. Ajay Kumar is an IAS officer from the Kerala cadre, having joined the service in 1985. Throughout his career, he has occupied several significant roles within both the Indian and Kerala state governments, including positions such as District Collector, Managing Director of Keltron, and Principal Secretary for the Department of Information Technology.


Achievements as Defence Secretary

From August 23, 2019, to October 31, 2022, Ajay Kumar served as India's Defence Secretary. During his tenure, he implemented crucial defence reforms, including the 'Agnipath Scheme,' the 'Agniveer recruitment process,' the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, and the corporatization of ordnance factories.


Contributions to Digital India

In his previous roles within the Ministry of Electronics and IT, Dr. Ajay Kumar was instrumental in advancing 'Digital India' initiatives, contributing to projects such as UPI, Aadhaar, myGov, and the Government e-Marketplace.


Educational Background

Dr. Kumar holds a BTech degree from IIT Kanpur. He further pursued an MS in Applied Economics and a PhD in Business Administration from the University of Minnesota, USA, completing his doctoral studies in just three years.


Role and Responsibilities at UPSC

As the premier recruitment agency in India, UPSC conducts examinations for various civil services, including IAS, IPS, and IFS. Dr. Kumar's tenure as Chairman will last for six years or until he turns 65, whichever occurs first. Currently, there are two vacant member positions within the commission.


Significance of His Appointment

The appointment of Dr. Ajay Kumar is anticipated to infuse the UPSC with a wealth of experience and a strategic mindset. His technical knowledge, administrative background, and reform-oriented approach are expected to bolster the transparency and efficiency of the commission.


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