In a bold move reflecting the complexities of India's evolving political and economic landscape, former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das has been appointed as Principal Secretary-2 to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This historic appointment marks the first time the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) will operate with two principal secretaries, a testament to the increasing focus on economic governance.
Shaktikanta Das, a veteran in the Indian Administrative Service with over 42 years under his belt, has been tasked with advising and guiding economic policy alongside Pramod Kumar Mishra, the existing Principal Secretary-1. His appointment is notably aligned with the tenure of Prime Minister Modi, indicating a strategic synergy in their working relationship.
Das's career has been an impressive journey through various critical roles in the finance ministry. He has played pivotal roles in the preparation of eight Union budgets, worked through major economic initiatives like the 2016 demonetization, and was instrumental in implementing the Goods and Services Tax (GST), a significant reform that reshaped the country's tax architecture. His term as the RBI Governor from 2018 to 2023 saw him navigate the nation through challenging economic waters, including the COVID-19 pandemic and liquidity issues.
The decision to appoint Das is not without its controversies. The opposition has voiced concerns about potential political motivations behind this dual-leader setup. Critics suggest the appointment might signal a reinforced channel for policymaking that aligns closely with Modi’s vision, potentially sidelining diverse perspectives. Despite these concerns, Das’s proven track record in fiscal and monetary policy is expected to enhance the government’s capability to tackle economic challenges effectively.
Prior to this appointment, Das has also served as India’s G20 Sherpa, where he was the country’s representative in international economic forums, and as a member of the 15th Finance Commission. This extensive background in both national and international financial matters positions him as a strong asset in strengthening India’s economic strategy during Modi’s tenure.
