Shri Vishvajit Sahay, a 1990-batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service, has assumed charge as Secretary (Defence Finance) in the Ministry of Defence on May 1, 2026.
Extensive Experience in Defence Finance
Prior to this appointment, he served as the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA), bringing with him over 30 years of experience in:
- Defence financial management
- Public administration
- Budgeting and expenditure oversight
Key Positions Held
During his distinguished career, Shri Sahay has held several important roles, including:
- Additional Secretary & Financial Adviser, Department of Science and Technology
- Joint Secretary, Department of Heavy Industries
- Finance Manager (Acquisition Wing), Ministry of Defence
- Director, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Within the Defence Accounts Department, he has served as:
- Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions), Prayagraj
- Joint CGDA and Special CGDA
Strong Academic and Global Exposure
An alumnus of St Stephen’s College and a law graduate, he has also represented India at international forums, including:
- University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
- George C. Marshall European Centre for Security Studies, Germany
Strengthening Defence Financial Governance
His appointment is expected to:
- Enhance financial efficiency and transparency
- Strengthen strategic decision-making in defence expenditure
- Support modernisation and capability development of the armed forces
Key Role in Defence Ecosystem
As Secretary (Defence Finance), he will play a critical role in:
- Managing defence budgets and procurement finances
- Ensuring fiscal discipline across the armed forces
- Supporting long-term defence planning
