In a remarkable milestone for India’s bureaucratic landscape, Mr. Mritunjaya Sharma, an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer from the 2009 Income Tax batch, has been appointed as the Private Secretary to the President of India, Droupadi Murmu. This prestigious appointment underscores Sharma’s exceptional career trajectory, blending diligence, intellect, and a steadfast commitment to public service. As he steps into this pivotal role, Sharma’s story offers an inspiring glimpse into the life of a man whose journey reflects both personal grit and professional excellence.
Early Life and Roots of Resilience
Born into a modest family with deep-rooted values, Mritunjaya Sharma’s early years were shaped by a blend of simplicity and ambition. Hailing from a small town, he grew up in an environment where education was revered as the gateway to opportunity. His parents, both educators, instilled in him a passion for learning and a sense of duty toward society. From an early age, Sharma displayed an inquisitive mind and a knack for problem-solving—traits that would later define his career.
A stellar student, Sharma excelled in academics, balancing his love for numbers with an appreciation for governance and policy. His formative years were marked by a quiet determination to rise above challenges, a quality that propelled him toward one of India’s most competitive arenas: the Civil Services Examination.
The IRS Calling: A Foundation in Public Service
In 2009, Mritunjaya Sharma cracked the coveted Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, securing a position in the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) under the Income Tax cadre. This achievement was not just a personal triumph but a testament to years of relentless preparation and focus. Joining the IRS at a young age, Sharma quickly adapted to the complexities of India’s taxation system, earning a reputation for his analytical prowess and integrity.
Over the next decade and a half, Sharma served in various capacities within the Income Tax Department. From tackling tax evasion to streamlining compliance processes, he brought a fresh perspective to his roles. Colleagues recall him as a meticulous officer with an uncanny ability to simplify intricate financial regulations for the common citizen. His tenure in the IRS was marked by a rare blend of technical expertise and empathy—a combination that set him apart in a field often seen as rigid and impersonal.
A New Chapter: Private Secretary to the President
On March 26, 2025, news broke of Sharma’s appointment as the Private Secretary to President Droupadi Murmu, a role that places him at the heart of India’s highest office. This transition from the IRS to Rashtrapati Bhavan is more than a career shift; it’s a recognition of his administrative acumen and unwavering dedication. As Private Secretary, Sharma will serve as a key aide to the President, managing critical correspondence, coordinating high-level engagements, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the President’s office.
What makes this appointment particularly noteworthy is Sharma’s relatively young age and his roots in the IRS—a service not traditionally seen as a direct pipeline to such a prominent position. His selection reflects a broader trend of rewarding merit and versatility in India’s civil services, breaking away from conventional hierarchies.
The Man Behind the Title
Beyond his professional accolades, Mritunjaya Sharma is known for his grounded personality and unassuming demeanor. Friends describe him as a voracious reader with a penchant for history and philosophy, often drawing parallels between ancient governance systems and modern policy challenges. An avid trekker, he finds solace in nature, a passion that he credits for keeping him balanced amidst the demands of his career.
Sharma’s appointment also carries symbolic weight. As President Murmu, India’s first tribal woman President, continues to inspire millions with her journey, Sharma’s role as her Private Secretary bridges two narratives of resilience and service. Together, they represent a powerful synergy of leadership and support, poised to leave a lasting impact on the nation’s governance.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy in the Making
As Mritunjaya Sharma embarks on this new chapter, expectations are high. His tenure at Rashtrapati Bhavan will likely see him navigating complex national and international affairs, all while upholding the dignity of the President’s office. For a man who has spent years mastering the intricacies of taxation, this role offers a broader canvas—one where his skills will shape decisions at the apex of India’s democracy.
Sharma’s journey from a small-town dreamer to a key figure in the President’s inner circle is a story of perseverance, intellect, and purpose. As he takes on this mantle, the nation watches with anticipation, eager to see how this IRS stalwart will redefine his legacy in the annals of Indian administration.