Dr. Mayank Sharma has officially assumed the role of Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA), marking a significant transition in leadership within the Defence Accounts Department. With over thirty years of prestigious service in the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS), Dr. Sharma is set to bring his extensive expertise to a role that is vital for the financial integrity and efficiency of India’s defence sector.
As a graduate from the 1989 batch, Dr. Sharma’s career encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, particularly in defence financial management, where he has been instrumental in overseeing crucial financial operations for the Indian Armed Forces. His proficiency in matters such as defence procurement and budgetary oversight has been pivotal in maintaining fiscal discipline and effective management of military expenditures, ensuring that the armed forces operate with the resources they need while adhering to budget constraints.
Dr. Sharma’s contributions extend beyond the confines of military finance. His experience at the Cabinet Secretariat, where he was involved in high-level policy making and national security discussions, showcases his ability to navigate complex governmental frameworks and contribute to strategic decision-making. Furthermore, his international diplomatic experience is noteworthy. He has represented India in prominent international forums, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, as well as the UN Commission on International Trade Law.
His robust involvement in global anti-corruption efforts, including representation at the International Anti-Corruption Academy and the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, underscores his commitment to integrity and transparency in governmental processes. Dr. Sharma’s role as the Head of the Consular Division at the Indian Embassy in Vienna exemplifies his diplomatic skills, where he was responsible for managing consular affairs and facilitating high-level Indian delegations at critical UN meetings.
As he steps into his new role as CGDA, Dr. Sharma’s agenda is poised to focus on enhancing financial oversight within the department, streamlining defence procurement processes, and ensuring greater transparency in defence expenditures. His leadership arrives at a pivotal time, as India intensifies its defence modernization initiatives, which demand a strong and reliable financial management system to bolster indigenous production and strategic acquisitions.
Dr. Sharma’s appointment as Controller General of Defence Accounts is a clear recognition of his exceptional service and extensive knowledge in the field. His leadership is eagerly anticipated to bring innovative solutions and further efficiency to the financial administration within India’s defence sector, thereby supporting the nation’s broader security and strategic objectives.
