New Delhi, July 14: The Central government has approved a one-year extension for Saurabh Garg, Secretary of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), allowing him to continue in the role until July 2027.
According to an order issued by the Personnel Ministry, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has cleared the continuation of Garg’s appointment on a contractual basis for another year beyond July 31, 2026. His extended tenure will now remain valid until July 31, 2027.
The decision comes as the government continues to focus on strengthening India’s statistical framework, improving data systems, and enhancing the reliability of official economic and social indicators.
Garg to Continue Additional Charge of National Statistical Commission
Along with his responsibilities as MoSPI Secretary, Saurabh Garg will also continue to perform the duties of Secretary to the National Statistical Commission (NSC).
The NSC plays an important role in guiding statistical standards, reviewing data collection methods, and ensuring improvements in the country’s official statistical processes.
His continuation is expected to provide administrative stability to the ministry at a time when several initiatives related to data quality, digital transformation, and statistical reforms are underway.
Background of Saurabh Garg’s Administrative Career
Saurabh Garg is a 1991-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Odisha cadre. During his long administrative career, he has handled several important assignments across different departments of the government.
Before taking charge of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Garg served as Secretary in the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment.
He was appointed as MoSPI Secretary on May 30, 2024. At the time of his appointment, he was scheduled to continue in the position until his retirement on July 31, 2024, followed by a one-year contractual extension.
Previous Extension Was Set to End This Month
The latest decision follows the completion of Garg’s earlier one-year extension, which was granted after his retirement. That tenure was scheduled to conclude in July 2026.
With the fresh approval from the ACC, Garg will now remain at the helm of MoSPI for an additional year, ensuring continuity in the ministry’s ongoing programmes and policy initiatives.
Focus on Strengthening India’s Statistical Ecosystem
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation is responsible for producing crucial national data, including economic indicators, surveys, and programme monitoring reports used for policymaking.
Over the past few years, the ministry has been working towards improving data collection mechanisms, adopting technology-driven solutions, and making statistical outputs more transparent and accessible.
Garg’s extended tenure is expected to support these efforts and maintain continuity in ongoing reforms aimed at modernising India’s statistical architecture.