Shri P. Jawahar, IAS (AGMUT Cadre, 2007 Batch), has officially assumed charge as the Chairman of the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), the apex government body responsible for the promotion and development of India’s marine products sector and seafood exports.
An Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer with wide-ranging administrative experience, Shri P. Jawahar has served across multiple sectors including industries, commerce, education, elections administration, sustainable development, and public governance. Prior to his appointment at MPEDA, he served as the Chief Electoral Officer and Commissioner/ Secretary to the Government of Puducherry, overseeing key departments such as Industries & Commerce, Education, and Elections.
Shri P. Jawahar also brings a strong multidisciplinary academic background in agriculture, environmental science, and urban development. His experience and expertise are expected to provide fresh momentum to India’s seafood sector, particularly in the areas of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, infrastructure development, value addition, export competitiveness, innovation, and expansion into global markets.
Under his leadership, MPEDA is expected to intensify efforts aimed at strengthening India’s position in the global seafood trade while focusing on sustainability, quality assurance, traceability, and livelihood support for stakeholders across the fisheries and aquaculture value chain.