New Delhi: Shri Saurabh Garg, a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1991 batch (Odisha Cadre) (Retd.), has been granted a one-year extension of tenure as Secretary, Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the extension on a contract basis, effective from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
In addition to his role as Secretary, Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation, Shri Garg will continue to discharge the crucial functions of Secretary to the National Statistical Commission.
This extension underscores the government’s confidence in Shri Garg’s leadership and his contributions to the nation’s statistical framework and programme implementation.
Since his appointment as Secretary, Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation on May 30, 2024, Shri Garg has been instrumental in overseeing the collection, analysis, and dissemination of vital statistical data, which is crucial for policy formulation and economic planning.
Shri Garg brings a wealth of experience to these significant roles. Prior to his current assignment, he served as Secretary, Department of Social Justice and Empowerment.
His extensive career includes notable stints as CEO of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), where he played a key role in expanding Aadhaar’s reach and strengthening its technological backbone.
He also held important positions in the Ministry of Finance, contributing to the formation of the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) and digital payments framework.
His continued tenure is expected to provide stability and continuity in the critical work of the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation and the National Statistical Commission, ensuring the robust development and integrity of India’s statistical system.