New Delhi: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the ex-post facto extension of additional charge of the post of Director General, Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to IAS officer Ajay Bhadoo (Gujarat:1999), currently serving as Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
As per the official order, Mr Bhadoo will continue to hold the additional charge of DGFT from April 21, 2025, to October 20, 2025, or until a regular appointment is made, or until further orders – whichever is earlier.
Previously Assigned for Three Months; Extension Reflects Government’s Trust
IAS Bhadoo was first assigned the additional charge of DGFT for three months from April 21 to July 20, 2025. The latest decision marks an extension of that tenure, acknowledging his administrative acumen and leadership in managing key trade policy functions.
Read Also: IAS Ajay Bhadoo Given Addl Charge of DGFT for Three Months
A Career Administrator with Rich Experience Across Sectors
An Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1999 batch from the Gujarat cadre, Shri Bhadoo brings over two decades of experience in public administration, policy formulation, and project execution.
He has previously served in high-profile positions including:
- Deputy Election Commissioner, Election Commission of India
- Joint Secretary to the President of India, during the tenure of Shri Ram Nath Kovind
- CEO, Gujarat Maritime Board
- Municipal Commissioner, Rajkot and Vadodara
In August 2024, he was appointed as Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce, a key position responsible for trade promotion, export policies, and industrial development.
Academic Credentials: Engineer with Legal Acumen
Mr Bhadoo holds a degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s in Business Law from the National Law School of India University, Bengaluru. His multidisciplinary background has contributed to his effectiveness in handling diverse administrative and policy challenges.
DGFT’s Strategic Role in India’s Foreign Trade Policy
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, plays a crucial role in formulating and implementing India’s Foreign Trade Policy (FTP). The institution is instrumental in regulating imports and exports, issuing trade licenses, and promoting ease of doing business in international trade.
With global trade dynamics evolving rapidly, Mr Bhadoo’s continuation as DGFT ensures continuity and stability in India’s trade governance.
