The Centre has named Vijay Kumar, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of AGMUT cadre, as the new Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
Vijay Kumar has been appointed as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) ahead of taking over as Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways on October 1 after the incumbent T K Ramachandran steps down on September 30 upon superannuation, according to an office memorandum issued by the Department of Personnel and Training on Friday.
Delhi-born Vijay Kumar, 54, is currently Chairman, Inland Waterways Authority of India, the agency tasked with overseeing the development of inland waterways in the country.
Vijay Kumar joined IAS in 1992 after clearing the UPSC Civil Services Examination at 21. He began his administrative career as an SDM in East Delhi.
During his stint in the IAS, Vijay Kumar has held high-level positions in various departments, both in India and internationally. His experience spans key sectors, including education, trade, excise, water supply, and transportation. This includes Special Secretary, Cooperation, New Delhi, Principal Secretary, Power Department (UT), Administrator, Union Territory of Lakshadweep and CEO, Delhi Jal Board.
He is a Bachelor of Engineering (Electronics) and an MBA in Economic Development from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He also holds a Diploma in Business Finance from the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts of India.
