Preeti Sudan Set to Become UPSC Chairperson: A Milestone in Public Service Leadership
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/31st July 2024
Preeti Sudan, a seasoned IAS officer from the 1983 batch, is poised to take on the role of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) chairperson beginning August 1, 2024. Sudan succeeds Manoj Soni, who recently stepped down from the position due to personal reasons, despite his tenure initially being slated to end in May 2029.
Sudan’s appointment marks a significant moment in the history of UPSC as she becomes the second woman to hold the esteemed position of chairperson. The first woman to do so was R M Bathew, who served in 1996.
The UPSC, a constitutional body, plays a crucial role in recruiting, selecting, and training civil servants for the Indian government. Established in 1926, the commission operates independently to ensure freedom from political influence. In addition to conducting examinations for civil service aspirants, UPSC advises the government on matters of recruitment, promotions, and disciplinary actions concerning civil servants.
Preeti Sudan, an officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre, has a distinguished career in public service. She has served in key roles across various departments, including the Department of Food and Public Distribution and the ministries of Women and Child Development and Defence. Sudan’s contributions are notable in national programs such as Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, Ayushman Bharat, and significant legislative efforts like the National Medical Commission and the ban on e-cigarettes.
Her influence extends beyond national boundaries. Sudan has worked as a consultant with the World Bank, chaired COP-8 of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, and served as Vice Chair of the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health. These roles highlight her dedication to addressing critical issues on both national and international stages.
Manoj Soni, who preceded Sudan, served three terms as Vice-Chancellor before his appointment at UPSC. His tenure included consecutive terms at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU) in Gujarat from 2009 to 2015, and a term at The Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) of Baroda from 2005 to 2008. Soni’s resignation came amidst controversy, particularly concerning the selection process of probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar. Allegations of misuse of power and privileges, along with discussions about the authenticity of certificates used by various officers, have marred his departure. Khedkar’s case remains unresolved, with a Delhi Court scheduled to hear her anticipatory bail plea on Wednesday.
Preeti Sudan’s upcoming tenure as UPSC chairperson is anticipated with high expectations. Her extensive experience in various governmental roles and her active participation in international initiatives position her as a capable leader for the commission. As UPSC chairperson, Sudan will oversee the critical functions of recruiting and training civil servants, ensuring that the commission maintains its standards of excellence and integrity.
The appointment of Sudan is seen as a progressive step for UPSC, reinforcing the importance of women’s leadership in significant governmental positions. Her leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and renewed focus on addressing the challenges faced by the commission and the civil service at large.
As Preeti Sudan steps into her new role, the public service community and the nation at large look forward to her contributions in shaping the future of India’s civil service. Her tenure promises to uphold the values of independence, integrity, and excellence that are the hallmarks of the Union Public Service Commission.
