Vishvajit Sahay Takes Charge as CGDA; B. Sivakumar Named Chief of Materiel

Vishvajit Sahay has officially taken on his role as the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA), as announced by the Ministry of Defence. Sahay, an officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) from the 1990 batch, brings over three decades of experience in defence finance and public administration to the position.

In his new role, Sahay will oversee financial management within the defence sector, a critical area given the increasing demands on India’s defence budget. He has previously held significant positions, including Additional Secretary and Financial Adviser in the Department of Science and Technology and Joint Secretary in the Department of Heavy Industry. His extensive background also includes serving as Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions) in Prayagraj and as Joint CGDA.

Experience and International Representation

Sahay is an alumnus of St. Stephen’s College at the University of Delhi. Throughout his career, he has represented India at various international training forums, including esteemed institutions such as Cambridge University in the United Kingdom and the George C. Marshall European Centre for Security Studies in Germany. His varied experience positions him well to address the challenges and complexities of defence financial management.

Meanwhile, Vice Admiral B. Sivakumar has stepped into the role of the 40th Chief of Materiel for the Indian Navy. He assumed office earlier today, further enhancing the leadership within the naval forces. A distinguished graduate of the National Defence Academy’s 70th Course, Vice Admiral Sivakumar was commissioned as an Electrical Officer on July 1, 1987.

Academic and Professional Background

With a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from IIT Chennai, along with postgraduate studies in Higher Defence Management from Osmania University and an MPhil from Madras University, Vice Admiral Sivakumar combines academic credentials with extensive naval experience. He has served over 38 years in various key appointments, including roles at Naval Headquarters, HQ ATVP, and Naval Dockyards.

His operational experience includes serving onboard several frontline warships such as the INS Ranjit, INS Kirpan, and INS Akshay. He has also commanded the prestigious Electrical Training Base, INS Valsura, showcasing his comprehensive understanding of naval operations and training.

The appointments of both Sahay and Sivakumar reflect the Indian government’s commitment to enhancing leadership within its defence sectors, ensuring that experienced individuals are at the helm of these critical positions. As they assume their new roles, their combined expertise is expected to have a significant impact on the operational and financial frameworks of India’s defence services.