New Delhi: The Department of Revenue has moved a step closer to filling a crucial Board-level vacancy by shortlisting five senior officers for appointment to the position of Member. The development marks the latest stage in the selection process for one of the most important leadership positions in the revenue administration framework of the Government of India.
According to official information, five officers have been shortlisted from a pool of nine applicants who had applied for the single vacancy advertised earlier this year. While the schedule for the final selection interviews is yet to be announced, the shortlisted candidates now enter the decisive phase of the appointment process.
Five Officers Make the Shortlist
The Department of Revenue has shortlisted the following officers for consideration:
- Raj Kumar (1990 Batch)
- Valte Vungzamuan (1990 Batch)
- Prachi Saroop (1991 Batch)
- Rimjhim Prasad (1991 Batch)
- Rajesh Jindal (1991 Batch)
These officers represent some of the most senior and experienced members of the Indian Revenue Service (IRS), with decades of experience in tax administration, policy implementation, enforcement, and public finance management.
Single Board-Level Vacancy
The current selection exercise pertains to a single Member-level vacancy, making the competition particularly significant.
Board-level Member positions in the Department of Revenue carry substantial responsibilities and play a key role in shaping taxation policy, revenue collection strategies, administrative reforms, compliance frameworks, and organisational leadership.
The officer eventually selected will join the top decision-making structure of the revenue administration system and contribute to policy formulation and implementation at the national level.
Vacancy Advertised in February 2026
Sources indicate that the vacancy was formally advertised during the first week of February 2026, initiating the process for inviting applications from eligible senior officers.
A total of nine candidates submitted applications for consideration. Following scrutiny and evaluation, the field has now been narrowed down to five contenders.
The selection process is expected to proceed with interviews and further assessment by the competent authorities before a final recommendation is made.
Interesting Link to Earlier Selection Exercise
An interesting aspect of the current shortlist is that all nine applicants reportedly belonged to the same pool of 15 officers who were considered but not selected earlier this year when three separate Member-level vacancies were filled.
At that time, the Committee of Secretaries (CoS) had chosen other officers for the available positions, leaving several senior candidates awaiting future opportunities.
The present vacancy therefore offers another opportunity for officers from that group to secure a coveted Board-level appointment.
Importance of the Member Position
The position of Member in the Revenue Department is among the most influential roles within India’s tax administration structure.
Board Members are involved in:
- Tax policy formulation
- Revenue collection strategies
- Administrative reforms
- Enforcement and compliance oversight
- Coordination with other ministries and departments
- Digital transformation initiatives
- Monitoring implementation of government revenue measures
The appointment assumes added significance at a time when the government continues to focus on tax modernisation, digital governance, compliance enhancement, and improved taxpayer services.
Selection Interviews Awaited
Although the shortlist has now been finalised, the Department of Revenue has not yet announced the dates for the selection interviews.
Once conducted, the interviews will likely play a decisive role in determining which of the five officers is ultimately recommended for appointment to the Board-level post.
The final appointment will be closely watched within administrative circles, given the strategic importance of the position and the seniority of the officers involved.
A Competitive Race Among Experienced Officers
With two officers from the 1990 batch and three officers from the 1991 batch making the shortlist, the competition reflects the depth of experience available within the senior ranks of the Revenue Service.
Administrative observers note that the eventual selection could have implications for future leadership succession within the Department of Revenue and related organisations.
As the process moves toward its final stage, attention will now turn to the interview schedule and the government’s final decision on who will occupy the influential Board-level position.
