NEW DELHI — The Indian central bank’s new governor, Shaktikanta Das (pic) took charge on Wednesday following the unexpected resignation of his predecessor.
Das, 61, replaces Urjit Patel, who resigned on Monday amid reports of policy differences with the government.
“Assumed charge as Governor, Reserve Bank of India. Thank you each and everyone for your good wishes,” he tweeted.
He was named the new central bank chief on Tuesday and will serve a three-year term.
Das, who has a degree in history from Delhi University, previously served as secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs.
He was a strong backer of India’s sensational 2016 decision to withdraw high-value banknotes and defended it despite the move being criticised for causing widespread cash shortages and hardships to small businesses and average people.
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said Das was well-qualified for the prestigious job and praised him as “a very senior and an experienced civil servant.”
-Bernama
