SSC CPO 2025 PYQ — Question 81

Answer: Dr. T.V. Somanathan.
Explanation:

• Dr. T.V. Somanathan has assumed charge as India's new Cabinet Secretary. He succeeded Rajiv Gauba, who was the longest-serving officer in this position (serving for 5 years). Dr. Somanathan is a 1987-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Tamil Nadu cadre.
• The post of Cabinet Secretary is the highest administrative position within the Government of India. The individual appointed to this post works directly under the Prime Minister and serves as the head of the country's civil administration. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Somanathan served in the Union Ministry of Finance as the 'Expenditure Secretary' and the 'Finance Secretary.' His appointment became effective on August 30, 2024, and he continues to serve in this capacity in 2025. He is regarded as an expert in economic affairs and administrative reforms.

Additional Points:

• Cabinet Secretariat: It functions directly under the Prime Minister and ensures inter-ministerial coordination.
• Order of Precedence: The Cabinet Secretary holds a highly significant position in India's Order of Precedence and serves as the *ex-officio* Chairman of the 'Civil Services Board.'
• Tenure: Typically, the tenure for this post is two years; however, the government may extend it from time to time (as was the case with Rajiv Gauba).

Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: Who is the most senior executive officer of the Government of India?
Answer: The Cabinet Secretary.
Question: From which state cadre does the current Cabinet Secretary, Dr. T.V. Somanathan, belong?
Answer: Tamil Nadu cadre.
Question: Who is the officer who completed the longest tenure as Cabinet Secretary?
Answer: Rajiv Gauba.