Ajay Seth is a distinguished officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), belonging to the 1987 batch of the Karnataka cadre. With a career spanning over three decades, he has carved a niche for himself in the realms of public finance, economic administration, and infrastructure development. Known for his expertise and dedication, Seth currently serves as the Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) in the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, a role he assumed on April 16, 2021. His journey reflects a blend of academic rigor, professional excellence, and a steadfast commitment to public service.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in India, Ajay Seth pursued a robust educational path that laid the foundation for his illustrious career. He holds a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree in Mechanical Engineering, showcasing his technical aptitude. To complement his engineering background, he earned a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), which equipped him with managerial and financial acumen. His academic credentials reflect a versatile intellect, capable of navigating both technical and administrative challenges—a trait that has defined his tenure in the IAS.
Entry into the Indian Administrative Service
Ajay Seth joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1987, a prestigious cadre of civil servants tasked with steering India’s governance and development. Assigned to the Karnataka cadre, he began his career tackling grassroots issues, gradually rising through the ranks due to his strategic vision and administrative prowess. Over the years, he amassed extensive experience in public policy, taxation, and infrastructure, domains that would later become his forte.
Career Highlights in Karnataka
Before ascending to national prominence, Seth held several key positions in the Karnataka state government. One of his standout roles was as the Managing Director of the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), where he spearheaded transformative urban transport initiatives. His leadership ensured the expansion and operational efficiency of Bengaluru’s metro system, a lifeline for millions in the bustling tech hub.
Seth also served as the Additional Chief Secretary of Health and Family Welfare, navigating the complexities of healthcare administration. His tenure as Commissioner of Commercial Taxes further honed his expertise in tax policy and revenue management, earning him accolades for innovative reforms. In 2013, he was part of a team awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration for revolutionizing commercial tax administration in Karnataka—an honor that underscored his impact at the state level.
National and International Contributions
Seth’s career took a significant leap when he served as an Adviser to the Executive Director at the Asian Development Bank (ADB) from 2004 to 2008. This international stint broadened his perspective on development financing, multilateral cooperation, and infrastructure funding—skills he later brought back to India. Earlier, between 2000 and 2004, he worked in the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, as Deputy Secretary and Director in the Departments of Expenditure and Economic Affairs. These roles marked his initial foray into national economic policy-making.
In April 2021, Seth returned to the Ministry of Finance as the Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs, succeeding Tarun Bajaj. His appointment came at a critical juncture, as India grappled with the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tasked with steering the nation toward recovery, Seth has been instrumental in shaping fiscal policies, managing foreign investments, and fostering public-private partnerships. In December 2024, he was given the additional charge of Revenue Secretary, further expanding his influence over India’s financial framework during the crucial Budget preparation period.
Personal Traits and Leadership Style
Ajay Seth is widely regarded as a pragmatic and results-oriented administrator. Colleagues and peers describe him as approachable yet decisive, with a keen ability to balance technical details with big-picture goals. His 33 years of service reflect a deep commitment to improving governance, whether through streamlining tax systems, enhancing healthcare delivery, or modernizing urban infrastructure. His ability to adapt to diverse roles—from state-level leadership to international advisory positions—sets him apart as a versatile civil servant.
Legacy and Ongoing Impact
As of March 24, 2025, Ajay Seth continues to play a pivotal role in India’s economic landscape. His dual responsibilities as Secretary of Economic Affairs and Revenue Secretary position him at the heart of Budget formulation and fiscal strategy. With a career marked by resilience and innovation, Seth’s contributions extend beyond administrative duties; they embody a vision for a stronger, more equitable India.
His journey from a young IAS officer in Karnataka to a key figure in the Union Government is a testament to his unwavering dedication. Whether it’s driving metro projects in Bengaluru or shaping national economic policies in New Delhi, Ajay Seth remains a cornerstone of India’s administrative machinery, leaving an indelible mark on its development trajectory.