In a significant development, Ms. Anuradha Prasad, former Secretary to the Government of India, Inter State Council Secretariat, Ministry of Home Affairs, took the Oath of Office and Secrecy as a Member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) today. The oath was administered by Lt. Gen. Raj Shukla (Retd.), the seniormost Member of the Commission.
Academic and Professional Background
Ms. Anuradha Prasad, a 1986-batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She graduated from Lady Sriram College for Women and holds a Master’s degree in History from the University of Delhi. Additionally, she earned a Master’s in Development Administration from the University of Birmingham, UK.
A 37-Year Career of Excellence: Ms. Prasad’s illustrious career spans over three decades, during which she has made significant contributions to public policy, public finance, and cooperative federalism across multiple Union Ministries.
Key Contributions Across Ministries
Ms. Prasad’s extensive experience includes pivotal roles in several key ministries:
- Ministry of Defence: As Finance Manager in the Acquisitions Wing, she managed the acquisition of large platforms. She also handled finance and accounting for Defence Services and the Ordnance Factory Board in the Ministry of Finance.
- Ministry of Food Processing Industries: She played a key role in developing cold chain infrastructure, food testing laboratories, and industry-driven R&D. As a Member of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the National Council for Vocational Education & Training (NCVET), she contributed to regulatory frameworks.
- Ministry of Labour & Employment: As Additional Secretary, she was instrumental in drafting the Labour Codes and developing the e-Shram Portal, a national database for unorganized sector workers. As Director General of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), she led health and welfare initiatives for workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Ministry of Home Affairs: As Secretary of the Inter State Council Secretariat, she facilitated Centre-State and Inter-State relations, building consensus on complex issues and expediting infrastructure and policy projects.
Post-Retirement Contributions
After retiring, Ms. Prasad served as a Member of the Police Complaints Authority, Government of NCT Delhi, further showcasing her commitment to public service.
A New Chapter at UPSC
Ms. Anuradha Prasad’s appointment to the UPSC is a testament to her distinguished career and expertise in governance. Her diverse experience in policy formulation, public finance, and cooperative federalism will undoubtedly strengthen the Commission’s efforts in recruiting and shaping India’s civil services.