Central Deputation of IAS Abhishek Dev Extended: Cabinet Clears One-Year Tenure Continuation for APEDA Chairman Under Commerce Ministry
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has formally sanctioned the proposal put forward by the Department of Commerce to extend the central deputation tenure of Mr Abhishek Dev, IAS (AGMUT:2007), who is currently serving as the Chairman of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).
As per the approval, Mr Dev’s tenure on central deputation will now continue for an additional period of one year beyond 8 February 2026, or until further official directions are issued by the Government of India, whichever event occurs earlier.
The decision ensures continuity in leadership at APEDA, a key statutory body operating under the Department of Commerce, which plays a pivotal role in promoting the export of agricultural and processed food products from India to global markets.
Mr Abhishek Dev, an Indian Administrative Service officer of the AGMUT cadre (2007 batch), has been overseeing crucial initiatives aimed at strengthening India’s agri-export ecosystem, improving compliance with international quality standards, expanding overseas market access for Indian exporters, and enhancing traceability systems for agricultural produce.
Officials indicated that the extension of his deputation tenure reflects the Government’s confidence in his administrative leadership and his contribution to advancing India’s agricultural export strategy in line with national trade objectives.
The continuation of his term is expected to provide policy stability and operational momentum to APEDA’s ongoing reform measures, export promotion schemes, and market development programmes during a critical phase of India’s agri-trade expansion.
