Preeti Sudan Takes Over as UPSC Chairperson Amid Controversies
New Chairperson of UPSC: Preeti Sudan, an experienced IAS officer of the 1983 batch from the Andhra Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Sudan takes over from Manoj Soni, who tendered his resignation citing personal reasons amidst ongoing controversies.
About Preeti Sudan
Preeti Sudan retired as Union Health Secretary in July 2020, bringing nearly 37 years of extensive experience in government administration. Her career includes:
- Union Health Secretary: Managed the COVID-19 pandemic during her final term.
- Secretary, Department of Food & Public Distribution: Oversaw crucial food security initiatives.
- Experience in Women & Child Development and Defense Ministries: Contributed to various significant programs.
- State Administration: Handled diverse portfolios, including Finance & Planning, Disaster Management, Tourism, and Agriculture.
Sudan holds an M.Phil. in Economics and an M.Sc. in Social Policy and Planning from the London School of Economics (LSE). Her global experience includes roles with the World Bank, Chair of COP-8 for the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, and Vice Chair of the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health. She has been a member of the Union Public Service Commission since November 29, 2022.
About Manoj Soni
Manoj Soni, who resigned before completing his term, cited personal reasons for stepping down. His resignation comes amid controversies involving UPSC, including allegations against probationary IAS officer Pooja Khedkar. Soni’s tenure as UPSC Chairman was to end in May 2029. He previously served as:
- Vice-Chancellor of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU), Gujarat: Held two consecutive terms from August 2009 to July 2015.
- Vice-Chancellor of The Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) of Baroda: Served from April 2005 to April 2008, becoming the youngest Vice-Chancellor in India at that time.
Soni is known for his contributions to political science and international relations and for his significant academic and scholarly achievements.
Current UPSC Context
- Controversy: The recent controversy involves IAS officer Pooja Khedkar, who is alleged to have falsified records to gain undue benefits. The UPSC has lodged a criminal case against her and taken steps to prevent her from future selections.
- Social Media Reaction: Claims and counter-claims about the misuse of certificates by IAS and IPS officers have been circulating on social media.
Next Steps
The UPSC, which can have up to ten members, currently operates with seven members. Sudan’s appointment is expected to bring new leadership and direction as the commission navigates through these challenges.
ALSO READ : SEBI Proposes New Measures to Strengthen Index Derivatives Framework
