Preeti Sudan, a distinguished 1983 batch IAS officer and former Union Health Secretary, has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), effective August 1, 2024. Her appointment comes amid ongoing controversy involving probationary IAS officer Pooja Khedekar’s alleged falsification of records and follows the unexpected resignation of UPSC Chairman Mahesh Soni, who stepped down citing personal reasons.
President Droupadi Murmu has officially approved Sudan’s appointment under clause (1A) of Article 316 of the Constitution, assigning her the role of UPSC Chairperson starting August 1, 2024.
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Who is Preeti Sudan?
Preeti Sudan retired as Union Health Secretary in July 2020, capping a notable 37-year career in government administration. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. Sudan’s extensive experience spans several key ministries, including Food & Public Distribution, Women & Child Development, and Defence. She has also contributed significantly at the state level in areas such as Finance & Planning, Disaster Management, Tourism, and Agriculture.
With an M.Phil in Economics and an MSc in Social Policy and Planning from the London School of Economics, Sudan has spearheaded major government initiatives, including Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Ayushman Bharat. Her efforts were instrumental in the establishment of the National Medical Commission and the implementation of the ban on e-cigarettes.
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Sudan’s international experience includes working as a consultant for the World Bank and holding prominent positions such as Chair of COP-8 of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and Vice Chair of the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health. She also chaired the Global Digital Health Partnership and was a member of WHO’s Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response.
