New Delhi: In an unprecedented move, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the ex-post facto assignment of the additional charge of Chairperson, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), to four Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers in a single consolidated order. This marks the first time such a combined order has been issued covering multiple officers and their respective tenures.
Details of IAS Officers Holding Additional Charge of FSSAI Chairperson
The ACC order mentions the names and tenure periods of the IAS officers assigned the additional charge of FSSAI Chairperson as follows–
Rajesh Bhushan (IAS: 1987: Bihar cadre)
Served as Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare, holding additional charge from 28 November 2021 to 31 July 2023.
Sudhansh Pant (IAS: 1991: Rajasthan cadre)
Served as Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare, holding additional charge from 1 August 2023 to 30 December 2023.
Apurva Chandra (IAS: 1988: Maharashtra cadre)
Served as Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare, holding additional charge from 31 December 2023 to 30 September 2024.
Punya Salila Srivastava (IAS: 1993: AGMUT cadre)
Serving as Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare, holding additional charge from 1 October 2024 to 31 July 2025.
Extension of Tenure for Current Chairperson
The order further notes that the additional charge of Chairperson, FSSAI, held by Punya Salila Srivastava, has been extended for a further period of six months starting 1 August 2025. This extension highlights the government’s confidence in her leadership during a critical phase for the food safety regulatory body.
Significance of the Appointment
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) plays a pivotal role in regulating and ensuring food safety across the nation. Assigning the post of Chairperson to experienced IAS officers with the added responsibility of heading the Department of Health and Family Welfare ensures policy coherence and strengthens the institution’s regulatory framework.
This combined ACC order not only streamlines the administrative process but also reflects a unique approach in handling the leadership of a vital government authority. It ensures continuity in leadership and helps maintain the momentum of reforms and initiatives in the food safety sector.
Looking Ahead
With Punya Salila Srivastava’s extended tenure, FSSAI is expected to continue focusing on strengthening food safety standards, consumer awareness, and regulatory enforcement. The involvement of senior IAS officers underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health through stringent food safety norms.
