Ms. Anuradha Thakur, a distinguished 1994-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Himachal Pradesh cadre, stands as a beacon of dedication and excellence in India’s bureaucratic landscape. With a career that spans over three decades, she has risen through the ranks to serve as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs since 2022, a role in which her tenure has been extended multiple times—most recently for another year in 2025. This extension reflects the immense trust and confidence the government places in her leadership and expertise, particularly in shaping corporate governance and regulatory frameworks. Her journey is a testament to her relentless commitment to public service, her innovative approach to governance, and her ability to leave a lasting impact at every level of administration.
Early Beginnings and Entry into the IAS
Born on April 12, 1970, in Bihar, Ms. Thakur embarked on her illustrious career by cracking the highly competitive Civil Services Examination, securing her place in the 1994 IAS batch. Assigned to the Himachal Pradesh cadre, she began her service at the grassroots level, immersing herself in the realities of rural administration. As a Block Development Officer, she tackled local challenges with a hands-on approach, earning the respect of communities and laying a strong foundation for her future roles. Her early experiences instilled in her a deep understanding of the needs of the people, a quality that would define her career.
A Diverse Career Across Governance Levels
Ms. Thakur’s career is marked by its remarkable diversity, spanning grassroots administration, state government roles, central government postings, and even international assignments. Her tenure as Collector and District Magistrate showcased her exceptional crisis management skills and her ability to implement policies with precision and empathy. Whether addressing local disputes or spearheading development projects, she demonstrated a knack for finding innovative solutions to complex problems, earning accolades from peers and superiors alike.
Her transition to the central government brought new opportunities to influence national policy. In the Department of Economic Affairs under the Ministry of Finance, Ms. Thakur played a pivotal role in shaping economic strategies that promoted sustainable growth and fiscal responsibility. It was here that her passion for urban governance and development began to take root, setting the stage for her future contributions in this field.
International Exposure and Academic Pursuits
A defining chapter in Ms. Thakur’s career unfolded in 2003 when she was awarded the prestigious Chevening scholarship. This opportunity took her to the London School of Economics, where she delved into urban governance, studying the London Mayor’s office and gaining insights into global best practices. Armed with this knowledge, she returned to India and applied her expertise to urban development projects across various state governments, serving as Director in the Ministry of Finance. Her work focused on enhancing infrastructure, improving public services, and fostering inclusive urban growth—initiatives that continue to benefit communities today.
Her international experience extended further when she served as Advisor to the Executive Director at the World Bank, representing India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. In this role, she advocated for development projects that aligned with regional priorities, amplifying the voices of these nations on the global stage. Her diplomatic finesse and deep understanding of economic development solidified her reputation as a formidable leader in international circles.
Rising Through the Ranks: Leadership in Central Government
In 2017, Ms. Thakur’s expertise was recognized with her appointment as Joint Secretary in the Department of Investment & Public Asset Management. Here, she spearheaded disinvestment initiatives and managed public assets with a strategic vision, maximizing returns for the government while ensuring transparency and accountability. Her success in this role paved the way for her promotion to Additional Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat, where she coordinated critical governance functions and facilitated inter-ministerial collaboration at the heart of India’s decision-making process.
In 2022, Ms. Thakur took on the mantle of Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, a position that perfectly aligned with her economic and governance expertise. Her leadership has driven significant reforms aimed at enhancing corporate transparency, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and promoting ethical business practices. She has also held the additional charge of Director of the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), overseeing high-profile investigations into corporate malfeasance with a relentless pursuit of justice. Her efforts have bolstered public confidence in India’s corporate ecosystem, making it more robust and trustworthy.
A Legacy of Trust and Impact
Ms. Thakur’s tenure as Additional Secretary has been extended multiple times, a rare honor that underscores her effectiveness and the high regard in which she is held. The most recent extension, granted in 2025, ensures her continued leadership in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs for another year. This decision reflects her invaluable contributions to corporate governance, fraud prevention, and regulatory excellence—areas where her vision and execution have set new benchmarks.
Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Thakur is celebrated for her passion for urban development and her unwavering commitment to public service. Her career serves as an inspiration, particularly for women aspiring to break barriers in the traditionally male-dominated field of Indian bureaucracy. From grassroots governance to international diplomacy, she has blended strategic foresight with practical implementation, leaving an indelible mark on the communities and systems she has served.
Looking Ahead
As Ms. Anuradha Thakur continues her tenure, her journey remains a powerful narrative of integrity, dedication, and transformative leadership. Her work not only shapes the present but also lays the groundwork for a more transparent, efficient, and equitable future for India. With her extended term, she is poised to further her mission of reforming corporate governance and advancing public service excellence, solidifying her legacy as one of India’s most impactful civil servants.