The 1987-batch IAS officer of Karnataka cadre Ajay Seth took charge as Secretary (Economic Affairs) on Friday. He has a lot of responsibility as the economy which was showing signs of recovery is being threatened by the second wave of COVID-19. He replaced Tarun Bajaj, who moved as Revenue Secretary in the Ministry of Finance. His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet headed by the Prime Minister on April 6.
In his previous stint at the Finance Ministry, Seth served as Deputy Secretary and Director, Expenditure and Department of Economic Affairs between 2000 and 2004. He served as Adviser to executive director Asian Development Bank during 2004-2008. He has also served as served as Secretary Budget and Resources in the state and also as commissioner Commercial Taxes Department.