Rajesh Kumar Singh Assumes Charge as India’s New Defence Secretary – Sri Lanka Guardian

Rajesh Kumar Singh, a 1989-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Kerala cadre, assumed charge as India’s 40th Defence Secretary on Friday, taking office at South Block, Delhi. Singh succeeds Aramane Giridhar, a 1988-batch IAS officer, who completed his extended tenure on October 31. Singh’s appointment comes just a month before his scheduled retirement, and he is set to serve a fixed two-year term ending on November 31, 2026.

Before his appointment as Defence Secretary, Singh served as Officer on Special Duty (OSD), closely working with Giridhar to ensure a smooth transition. Known for his wide-ranging expertise in both state and central government, Singh’s administrative background has spanned numerous key roles, bringing critical experience to his new position in defense.

Originally from Muzaffarpur, Bihar, Singh has held significant posts at the national level. He has previously served as Secretary in the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry and as Secretary in the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Singh’s extensive experience also includes positions such as Director of Works and Urban Transport in the Ministry of Urban Development, Commissioner (Lands) at the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, and Chief Vigilance Officer at the Food Corporation of India.

In the Kerala government, Singh held various posts, notably serving as Secretary for Urban Development and as Finance Secretary.

“Singh’s extensive administrative background across key departments is expected to contribute significantly to his role as Defence Secretary,” commented an official. With his leadership, the Ministry of Defence anticipates strengthened strategic initiatives and seamless coordination across India’s defense frameworks.

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