New Delhi: In a key bureaucratic development, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of C Murugan (IAS: 2007: WB) as the Deputy Chairperson of the Tea Board, Kolkata.
The decision was formalized through an official order issued on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, marking an important administrative move within the Department of Commerce under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Post Temporarily Upgraded to Joint Secretary Level
As per the order, the Deputy Chairperson post has been temporarily upgraded from the Director/Deputy Secretary (DS) level to the Joint Secretary level (Level-14 of the Pay Matrix). This upgrade is approved for an initial period of two years, allowing for enhanced responsibilities and administrative capacity at the helm of the Tea Board.
Murugan will serve at this upgraded level for a tenure of two years, starting from the date he assumes charge, or until further orders, whichever comes earlier.
About C Murugan
C Murugan is a 2007-batch Indian Administrative Service officer from the West Bengal cadre, known for his steady and efficient administrative career. His appointment is seen as a strategic move, considering the crucial role of the Tea Board in regulating, promoting, and developing India’s tea industry, especially in tea-rich states like West Bengal, Assam, and Tamil Nadu.
Significance of the Appointment
The Tea Board, headquartered in Kolkata, plays a pivotal role in the development of tea plantations, exports, research, welfare schemes, and regulation of tea quality standards. The Deputy Chairperson holds key responsibilities in operational decision-making and policy execution in alignment with the government’s trade and agriculture goals.
Upgrading the position to a Joint Secretary level reflects the government’s intent to strengthen institutional leadership at a time when India is working to boost agri-exports and modernize plantation governance.
