Former RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das Appointed As Principal Secretary to PM Modi
Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das was appointed as Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a major move announced via a government notification. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved his selection, with the Department of Personnel Training (DoPT) issuing the official order. Das, a seasoned bureaucrat, will serve as Principal Secretary-2 alongside PK Mishra, who has held the top Principal Secretary post since 2019.
Das’s new position is “co-terminus” with PM Modi’s term, meaning it will last as long as Modi remains in office or until further notice. This appointment places Das at the heart of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), where he’ll help shape policy and decision-making. It’s a shift from his financial oversight role at RBI to a broader administrative one, reflecting his trusted status within the government.
Shaktikanta Das, a 1980-batch IAS officer from Tamil Nadu, led the RBI from December 2018 to December 2024. His six-year tenure, including a three-year extension, was marked by steady leadership during tough times like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war. He guided India’s monetary policy, ensuring financial stability, and handed over a record Rs 2.11 lakh crore dividend to the government in 2024. Now, at 68, Das brings this experience to the PMO.
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Das’s move to Principal Secretary-2 signals continuity in Modi’s administration, pairing him with PK Mishra, a veteran aide. His economic expertise could influence policies on growth and recovery as India navigates global challenges. Meanwhile, NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam’s term was extended by a year from February 24, 2025, ensuring stability in the government’s think tank.
Before RBI, Das served as Economic Affairs Secretary and was a key figure in rolling out demonetization and GST. His appointment reflects Modi’s reliance on experienced hands to steer the nation. As Principal Secretary, Das is set to play a pivotal role in India’s governance story.
