Vivek Aggarwal Appointed FATF Vice President in Major Win for India
Senior bureaucrat Vivek Aggarwal has been elected as the Vice President of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). This appointment marks a diplomatic victory for India, highlighting its growing influence in combating global money laundering and terror financing networks.
Highlights
- •Senior bureaucrat Vivek Aggarwal has been named the new Vice President of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
- •The Ministry of External Affairs described the appointment as a significant diplomatic achievement for India.
- •Aggarwal brings extensive experience from his previous roles, including leading India’s FATF delegation and serving at the FIU-IND.
- •The leadership position reinforces India's commitment to fighting global money laundering and terror financing networks.
In a significant milestone for India, senior bureaucrat Vivek Aggarwal has been appointed as the Vice President of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). This appointment marks a major diplomatic success for the nation, underscoring its escalating influence in global initiatives aimed at curbing money laundering and terrorism financing.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced this development, emphasizing that the selection of Vivek Aggarwal reflects the international community's recognition of India’s unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against global terrorist financing networks. By securing this leadership position, India is poised to play an even more proactive role in dismantling illicit financial systems that threaten global integrity.
Strengthening India's Role at the FATF
The FATF serves as the premier intergovernmental body responsible for establishing international standards to protect the global financial architecture from threats such as money laundering and the financing of terror. Vivek Aggarwal’s extensive background makes him well-suited for this demanding role. He previously spearheaded India’s delegation to the FATF and served as the Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND).
Beyond the Ministry of External Affairs, the Ministry of Culture has also lauded the appointment. Officials noted that this achievement highlights the credibility India has cultivated among more than 200 jurisdictions. It further demonstrates the nation's growing capacity to help shape policies addressing modern financial risks, particularly those related to virtual assets and digital payment infrastructures.
Vivek Aggarwal, a 1994-batch IAS officer belonging to the Madhya Pradesh cadre, currently holds the position of Secretary in the Ministry of Culture. Prior to this appointment in April 2025, he served as the Additional Secretary in the Department of Revenue under the Ministry of Finance. In that capacity, he was instrumental in leading India’s efforts at the FATF.
Throughout a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Vivek Aggarwal has navigated complex responsibilities across sectors including public policy, infrastructure, urban development, agriculture, and finance. His past contributions include managing significant governmental programs such as the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, Digital Agriculture, and PM-KISAN. As he steps into his new role as Vice President, his wealth of expertise is expected to significantly enhance the effectiveness of the global watchdog's mission.
