New Delhi: Vishvajit Sahay recently took on the role of Secretary (Defence Finance) in the Ministry of Defence. He has an impressive background, having previously served as the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA). A graduate of St. Stephen’s College at the University of Delhi and a lawyer, Sahay has over three decades of experience in Defence Finance and Public Administration.
Throughout his career, he has held significant positions. These include Additional Secretary and Financial Adviser in the Department of Science and Technology and Joint Secretary in the Department of Heavy Industries. Sahay has also worked in the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. His roles in the Defence Accounts Department have been critical, especially as the Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions).
Sahay’s international experience is notable too. He has represented India at prestigious training programs, such as those at the University of Cambridge and the George C. Marshall European Centre for Security Studies in Germany.
In a related development, Bharat Khera has stepped in as the Secretary for the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). Khera, also an IAS officer from the Himachal Pradesh cadre, brings over thirty years of administrative expertise. Before this position, he was Additional Secretary in the Department of Consumer Affairs.
Khera’s background in the Ministry of Defence is significant. He worked as Joint Secretary (Air), where he managed topics related to the Indian Air Force and coordinated national events like Republic Day celebrations from 2017 to 2020. His work extends to matters involving the Border Roads Organisation and international cooperation in defense.
The MSME sector is crucial for India’s economy, contributing over 30% to the nation’s GDP and playing a key role in job creation and exports. This sector’s growth is vital, especially in times when economic stability is tested.
As these leaders assume their new roles, their experiences and insights will likely shape the future of their respective sectors, driving innovation and progress in critical areas of the economy.
For more details on the significance of the MSME sector, check out this government report on MSME contributions.
