Sunil Mitra: A Profile of the Finance Secretary

Sunil Mitra served as the Finance Secretary of India, a pivotal role in the country's economic administration. His tenure was marked by significant challenges and opportunities in navigating the complexities of the Indian economy.

An officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Mitra belonged to the West Bengal cadre. Prior to his appointment as Finance Secretary, he held several key positions within the central government and the state government of West Bengal, gaining extensive experience in economic policy, administration, and financial management. His career spanned various departments, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse sectors contributing to India's growth.

Mitra assumed the office of Finance Secretary during a period when the Indian economy was grappling with global economic uncertainties and domestic pressures. One of the primary responsibilities of the Finance Secretary is to oversee the preparation of the Union Budget, a crucial document outlining the government's financial priorities and fiscal policies. Mitra played a key role in formulating and presenting budgets that aimed to foster sustainable economic growth, manage fiscal deficits, and promote inclusive development.

His tenure also involved navigating the intricacies of tax reforms and revenue collection. He was instrumental in shaping policies related to direct and indirect taxes, striving to enhance tax compliance and broaden the tax base. This involved streamlining tax administration, addressing tax evasion, and implementing measures to improve the overall efficiency of the tax system.

Furthermore, Mitra was actively involved in managing the government's debt and public finances. This entailed overseeing government borrowing programs, managing the national debt, and ensuring responsible fiscal management to maintain macroeconomic stability. He also played a critical role in coordinating with various government departments and agencies to ensure effective implementation of economic policies and programs.

Beyond his responsibilities in fiscal policy, Mitra also contributed to policy discussions on a range of other economic issues, including infrastructure development, investment promotion, and financial sector reforms. He represented India in international forums and engaged with multilateral institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), advocating for India's economic interests and promoting international cooperation.

Sunil Mitra's time as Finance Secretary was characterized by his commitment to prudent financial management, economic growth, and inclusive development. His experience and expertise were instrumental in steering India's economic policies during a crucial period.