Two important decisions involving senior Indian bureaucrats have just been cleared by the government.
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved a four-month extension for IAS officer Jujjavarapu Balaji in Rome. At the same time, IRS officer Aman Garg has been selected for a major international assignment with the International Finance Corporation.
IAS Balaji Gets Extension in Rome
According to an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training on March 5, 2026, the government has approved the extension of the foreign deputation of IAS officer Jujjavarapu Balaji.
Balaji is currently serving as Minister (Agriculture) at the Embassy of India in Rome, Italy. His tenure has now been extended by four months beyond August 29, 2026, or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Balaji is a 2001-batch IAS officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre and has been serving in Rome since June 2023.
Role in Agricultural Diplomacy
In his role as Minister (Agriculture), Balaji represents India’s agricultural interests in Europe and works on strengthening international cooperation.
His responsibilities include:
Promoting India’s agricultural trade and partnerships
Coordinating with European institutions on farming and food systems
Participating in international agricultural forums
The extension is expected to provide continuity in diplomatic engagement and policy coordination on agriculture, food security, and sustainable farming initiatives.
IRS Officer Aman Garg Gets IFC Role
In another important decision, IRS officer Aman Garg has been approved for a long-term international assignment with the International Finance Corporation, which is part of the World Bank Group.
Garg is a 2008-batch officer of the Indian Revenue Service (Customs and Indirect Taxes).
He has been appointed as Senior Country Officer at the IFC’s India office.
Tenure and Administrative Arrangements
The assignment will be for three years from the date he assumes charge, or until further orders.
Currently, Aman Garg is serving as Director in the Department of Economic Affairs under the Central Staffing Scheme.
To allow him to take up the IFC role, his current deputation will be curtailed once he assumes charge of the new position.
Service Rules During Foreign Assignment
The government order also includes strict compliance provisions.
If the officer stays abroad beyond the approved tenure without authorization, disciplinary action may be initiated.
Such action could include: Delay in salary increments, Impact on service records, Adjustments affecting pension benefits
These rules are designed to ensure accountability in foreign deputations.
Why These Appointments Matter
These decisions reflect the Government of India’s broader strategy of placing experienced civil servants in key international roles.
While Balaji’s extension strengthens India’s agricultural diplomacy in Europe, Aman Garg’s new role will enhance India’s engagement with global development finance institutions.
Such international assignments also give Indian officers valuable global exposure and help shape policy discussions at the international level.
