New Delhi: Shri Rajesh Agrawal, a distinguished officer of the 1994 Indian Administrative Service (IAS) batch, today assumed charge as the Secretary of the Department of Commerce within the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Shri Agrawal brings a robust three decades of experience in governance, policy making, and implementation to the crucial post. His administrative footprint covers diverse and vital sectors, including skilling, human resource development, power, fertilizer, agriculture, and MSMEs.
Known for his expertise in human capital development, Shri Agrawal was instrumental in shaping the country’s skill development policies and served as India’s representative at the World Skills Governing Council for three years. He has also successfully steered significant sectoral reforms in the states of Manipur, Jharkhand, and Bihar.
Prior to his current appointment, Shri Agrawal played a pivotal role in strengthening India’s global trade position. He was responsible for overseeing India’s trade negotiations under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
His significant roles included serving as the Chief Negotiator for high-profile agreements, including the India–US Bilateral Trade Agreement, the Indo-Pacific Economic Forum, the India–Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), and the review of the ASEAN FTA.
Additionally, he was in charge of export promotion for the agriculture and allied sectors, linking his past experience directly to the Department of Commerce’s core mandate.