In a globalised world where industries are key to national economy and the defining parameter of future prosperity, there are few countries who have nurtured their industries like India. And playing such a parental role is people like Priyadarshi Thakur, secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industry & Public Enterprises, who have always held the notion that nascent industries should be protected and supported till its wings are strong enough to fly on their own. A man of strong principle, Thakur is one of the few bureaucrats who have guided the destiny of various departments and ministries they have worked for.

Known as honest, upright and creative person, Thakur has been a motivating leader who has always stood by the forward-looking and progressive ideas. No wonder, today Department of Heavy Industry under Thakur administers some 48 Central Public Sector Enterprises and has been instrumental in making them more productive and profitable institutions. An Indian Administrative official of 1970 batch from Rajasthan cadre, Thakur has played a dynamic role in making the Ministry of Heavy Industry & Public Enterprises an interface between PSEs and other agencies for long term policy formulation.

In fact, he is one of the key figures who have always encouraged restructuring of PSEs for their operations competitive. A dynamic leader, Thakur unlike most bureaucrats has always strived to make his ministry a fighting machine for social change. Carrying with him decades of valuable experience in diverse fields, Thakur has used his skills for the betterment of PSUs. In fact, the magnitude of his portfolio is testimony of his administrative skill and managerial abilities.

Looking after an investment which is more than Rs 7339 crore and employs about 1.84 lakh persons, the ministry under Thakur also keeps an eye on investment of the Government in Maruti Udyog Ltd., which is no way a mean job. Looking after diverse fields ranging from sophisticated engineering sectors to consumer goods to machine tools, industrial machinery, boilers, turbo generators, railway traction equipments, pressure vessels, AC locomotives, prime movers, electrical equipment to agricultural and earth moving equipment, Thakur has given a new direction to these enterprises. No doubt, with a person like Thakur, managing the show, there is no dearth of achievements that his ministry can aspire for.