In an unprecedented move, former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das has been appointed as Principal Secretary-2 to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This marks the first time in India’s history that a Prime Minister will have two Principal Secretaries at the same time. P.K. Mishra, who has held the position for the past five years, will continue in his role alongside Das.
The appointment of Das, a seasoned bureaucrat and key figure in India’s economic reforms, has sparked curiosity. Given his experience as RBI Governor, Finance Secretary, and his crucial role in India’s demonetization era, his presence in the PMO is expected to bring a sharp economic focus to policymaking.
Why Two Principal Secretaries?
The decision to appoint two Principal Secretaries raises eyebrows. Is it an attempt to divide responsibilities efficiently, or does it hint at internal restructuring within the PMO? Some speculate that the Modi government wants to reinforce economic decision-making at the highest level, especially with crucial economic challenges ahead.
What’s Next?
With Lok Sabha elections looming and economic reforms on the agenda, Das’s role in Modi’s inner circle could be a game-changer. Will his expertise bring stability to India’s financial policies, or does this signal a bureaucratic power shift? Time will tell.