2026: Standing at the Threshold of Transformation

New Year, New Possibilities, New Purpose

There's something uniquely humbling about standing at the edge of a new year. It's that rare moment when you're allowed—almost expected—to pause, look back at the road traveled, and then turn your gaze forward to the horizon ahead. As 2025 draws to a close and 2026 beckons, I find myself doing exactly that.

And what a year 2025 has been.

Working at the Heart of Policy

If someone had told me a few years ago that I'd be working at DOMS—the policy think tank of the Central Board of Direct Taxes—collaborating closely with Board Members and the Chairman himself, I would have been both thrilled and terrified. The reality? It's been even more enriching than I imagined.

At Directorate of Income Tax (Organization and Management Services) (DOMS), CBDT, we don't just talk about policy; we live it, breathe it, and shape it. This year, I had the privilege of being part of several transformative initiatives that will impact millions of taxpayers and reshape how our tax administration functions.

We worked extensively on revising the Taxpayers' Charter—not as a cosmetic exercise, but as a genuine commitment to making tax administration more transparent, accountable, and citizen-centric. Every word mattered. Every commitment needed to be backed by implementable processes. It was policy work at its core, and it reminded me why I chose public service in the first place.

Then came Special Campaign 5.0, spearheaded by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG). As the nodal authority for CBDT, we were right in the thick of it—streamlining processes, addressing pending matters, improving responsiveness. It's the kind of work that doesn't always make headlines but fundamentally changes how government functions.

And now? We're working on Guidance Notes for the new Income Tax Act, 2025. This is history in the making. A completely reimagined tax legislation going live on April 1, 2026. The responsibility is immense, but so is the opportunity to get it right.

Working this closely with leadership, seeing policy from conception to execution, has been one of the most defining experiences of my professional life. It's taught me that real change doesn't happen in grand pronouncements—it happens in the details, in the late-night drafts, in the stakeholder consultations, in the willingness to listen and iterate.

Asking the Big Question: Am I Still Relevant?

In October and November 2025, I stepped out of the policy corridors and into lecture halls—first at Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management (LBSIM) in Dwarka and then at Delhi Technological University (DTU) (former Delhi College of Engineering).

My opening slide at both sessions posed a question that I believe every professional must grapple with today: "Am I still relevant in a world where machines are becoming smarter every day?"

The students leaned forward. Because this isn't an abstract question anymore—it's personal, it's urgent, and it's real.

We dove deep into how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping finance—from risk management and fraud detection to software productivity and decision-making. Generative AI alone is estimated to add $2.6–$4.4 trillion in annual economic value globally, with financial services capturing a significant share. But beyond the numbers, we discussed the human dimension: How do we stay relevant? How do we adapt? How do we ensure AI augments rather than replaces us?

What struck me most wasn't just the curiosity in their questions, but the anxiety underlying them. These bright young minds are entering a job market where the rules are being rewritten in real-time. My message to them was simple: Don't fear AI. Understand it. Master it. Use it as a tool, not a threat. Use it as an amplifier.

Those sessions reminded me that sharing knowledge isn't just about transferring information—it's about empowering the next generation to navigate uncertainty with confidence.

2026: The Year of Transformation

As I look ahead to 2026, I'm filled with a sense of purpose and possibility that I haven't felt in years. Here's what's calling to me:

1. The Income Tax Act 2025 Implementation

April 1, 2026, isn't just another financial year beginning. It's the dawn of a new tax regime—simpler, clearer, more modern. Being part of the team creating Guidance Notes means I'm not just witnessing this transformation; I'm helping shape it.

The challenge? Making 536 sections and 16 schedules understandable and implementable for millions of taxpayers and thousands of tax officers. The opportunity? Getting it right could set the tone for India's tax administration for the next generation.

This is legacy work. And I want to give it everything I've got.

2. AI and Tax Administration

If there's one area where AI can make a transformative impact, it's tax administration. Imagine a system where:

• Taxpayers get instant, accurate answers to their queries
• Compliance becomes seamless, not burdensome
• Risk assessment is predictive, not reactive
• Litigation reduces because clarity increases

This isn't science fiction. The technology exists. What we need is vision, courage, and careful implementation. In 2026, I want to be part of initiatives that bring AI meaningfully into tax administration—not as a buzzword, but as a practical tool for better governance.

3. Expanding Thought Leadership

The DTU and LBSIM sessions opened my eyes to something important: there's a hunger for nuanced conversations about the future of work, finance, and technology. And I have something to contribute.

In 2026, I want to do more—more speaking engagements, more writing, more collaborations with academic institutions. Not to build a personal brand, but to contribute to the larger conversation. To mentor. To provoke thought. To challenge assumptions (including my own).

My blog, my talks, my interactions—they're all ways of thinking out loud. And I want to do more of that.

4. International Horizons

Having worked as a UN Adviser for the Afghanistan Mission and as a G20 Strategic Consultant for Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), I know the value of bringing global perspectives to domestic challenges—and vice versa. 

The world is interconnected. Tax policy doesn't happen in silos. Whether it's base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS), digital taxation, or climate finance—these are global conversations India needs to be part of. And I want to contribute to that dialogue.

5. Mentoring the Next Generation

Every young professional I've spoken with this year has reminded me: we have a responsibility to those coming behind us. To share not just our successes, but our failures. To demystify careers in public service. To show that impact and integrity can coexist.

In 2026, I want to be more intentional about mentoring—through formal programs, informal conversations, and by being accessible. The students who asked me, "Am I still relevant?" deserve mentors who help them find their own answers.

A Personal Resolution

If I had to distill my aspirations for 2026 into one sentence, it would be this: I want to build bridges—between policy and practice, between technology and humanity, between where we are and where we could be.

The new year isn't just a calendar turning. It's an invitation to recommit, to reimagine, to renew. And I'm ready.

Let's make it count.

What are your resolutions for 2026? What transformation are you hoping to be part of? I'd love to hear from you in the comments.

Role of AI in Finance: Insights from My Lecture at LBSIM

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept — it is here, actively shaping how decisions are made, risks are managed, and careers are evolving. Yesterday, I had the privilege of addressing students at Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management (LBSIM), Dwarka, New Delhi, on the fascinating intersection of AI and finance. The session was an engaging exchange of ideas, where we explored not just how AI is transforming industries today, but also how aspiring professionals can prepare themselves for tomorrow.

The discussion began with a critical question: Am I still relevant in a world where machines are becoming smarter every day? This is a question every finance professional must ask. From there, we examined real-world applications — how AI is driving efficiency in banking, consulting, and taxation. Generative AI, for instance, is estimated to add $2.6–$4.4 trillion in annual economic value globally, with financial services accounting for a major share through risk analysis, fraud detection, and software productivity. We also looked at the flipside — how AI is creating global divides, influencing geopolitics, and challenging existing regulatory frameworks.

One of the key themes we discussed was skills obsolescence. Research indicates that by 2030, over 60% of traditional tax administration skills could become outdated, replaced by expertise in data management, automation, and predictive analytics. This doesn’t spell doom — it signals opportunity. Students were encouraged to think of upskilling in AI, data science, and communication as essential to their career journeys. In fact, the most exciting part of the session was exploring how finance careers in an AI-first world won’t just survive — they will thrive, provided professionals learn to blend human judgment with machine intelligence.

What stood out for me was the energy and curiosity in the room. The students didn’t just listen; they questioned, debated, and connected the concepts with their own aspirations. For me, this reinforced a simple truth: AI may be the tool, but it is people who will determine how transformative it truly becomes.

I want to extend my gratitude to LBSIM for inviting me and for the thoughtful participation of its students. The experience reminded me once again that education isn’t about delivering content — it’s about igniting curiosity. And if yesterday’s lecture was any indication, the next generation of finance leaders is ready to embrace that curiosity and drive meaningful change in an AI-powered world. 

Sharing few moments:

Why is it important to maintain motivation for studies?

Maintaining motivation for studies is important because it can help you stay focused and engaged in your studies, and ultimately help you achieve your academic and career goals. When you are motivated, you are more likely to put in the effort required to learn and succeed, and you are less likely to become discouraged or give up when faced with challenges.

There are many benefits to maintaining motivation for studies, including:

1. Improved grades: When you are motivated to study, you are more likely to put in the time and effort required to understand the material and do well on exams and assignments.

2. Increased confidence: Maintaining motivation can help boost your confidence in your ability to learn and succeed.

3. Greater sense of accomplishment: When you are motivated to study, you are more likely to feel a sense of accomplishment when you complete a course or achieve a specific goal.

4. Better time management: Maintaining motivation can help you prioritize your studies and manage your time more effectively, allowing you to get more done in less time.

5. Improved mental health: Studies have shown that maintaining motivation can improve mental health and well-being, as it can help reduce stress and improve overall quality of life.

Motivation can be defined as the mental or emotional energy that provides a person with the desire to do something. It is a feeling of excitement or enthusiasm about something or a strong wish that something should happen.

There are many reasons for maintaining motivation for studies and these include:

-It helps us to stay focused on our goals

-It helps us to maintain an optimistic outlook

-It helps us to stay disciplined in our efforts

-It helps us keep going when we feel like giving up

Here are a few tips for maintaining motivation for studying:

1. Set clear goals: Having a specific goal in mind, such as earning a certain grade or completing a particular course, can help keep you motivated and focused.

2. Break your studies into manageable chunks: Rather than trying to tackle a large project or course all at once, try breaking it down into smaller, more manageable tasks. This can help you make progress and feel a sense of accomplishment as you complete each task.

3. Find ways to make studying enjoyable: Experiment with different study techniques and find what works best for you. Some people find it helpful to study with music or in a group, while others prefer to study alone in a quiet space.

4. Take breaks: It's important to take breaks and give yourself time to relax and recharge. Taking breaks can help prevent burnout and keep you motivated to continue studying.

5. Seek support: If you are struggling to stay motivated, consider seeking support from friends, family, or a tutor. Having someone to support and encourage you can make a big difference.

6. Reward yourself: Treat yourself to something special when you reach a study goal or complete a difficult task. This can help motivate you to keep working hard.

7. Stay positive: Try to stay positive and focus on your progress, rather than dwelling on any setbacks or challenges you may encounter.

Remember, it's normal to have ups and downs when it comes to motivation. The key is to find what works for you and to be kind to yourself when you are struggling. With a little effort and determination, you can maintain motivation and succeed in your studies.

Jai hind!

Civil Services as a career choice

Civil service is a career choice that offers a unique opportunity to serve the nation and make a difference in the lives of people. It is a noble profession that requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to public service. There are various agencies and departments that make up the civil service, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Revenue Service (IRS) and Indian Foreign Service (IFS), among others. These services are responsible for the administration and management of various government functions, including law and order, revenue collection, and foreign affairs.

One of the main benefits of choosing a career in the civil service is the opportunity to work in a variety of fields and locations. Civil servants have the opportunity to work at the national level, as well as in states and districts across the country. This allows them to gain a diverse range of experiences and develop a broad set of skills. For example, a civil servant in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) may work in areas such as policy development, law and order, revenue collection, and education. Similarly, a civil servant in the Indian Police Service (IPS) may work in areas such as crime investigation, traffic management, and community policing. And a civil servant in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) may work in areas such as diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange. Indian Revenue Service (IRS) Officers may be engaged in tax assessment and financial fraud investigation along with international taxation and cross border tax evasion.

Civil servants may also work at the state and local levels, where they are responsible for implementing policies and decisions that affect their communities. For example, a civil servant in a state education department may be responsible for implementing policies and programs related to school funding, curriculum development, and teacher training. In addition to implementing policies and decisions, civil servants may also play a role in the policy-making and decision-making processes themselves. This may involve providing advice and recommendations to elected officials and other decision-makers based on their expertise and experience.

For example, a civil servant in the Ministry of Finance may provide recommendations on budget allocation and economic policy based on their knowledge of financial trends and analysis. Similarly, a civil servant in the Ministry of Health may provide recommendations on healthcare policy based on their knowledge of public health issues.

Another advantage of a career in the civil service is the potential for advancement. Civil servants have the opportunity to rise through the ranks and take on leadership roles within their agencies. They also have the opportunity to pursue further education and training to enhance their skills and expertise.

For example, civil servants may be able to pursue advanced degrees in areas such as public administration, policy analysis, and law. They may also be able to participate in leadership development programs and attend professional workshops and seminars.

Another advantage of a career in the civil service is the potential for advancement. Civil servants have the opportunity to rise through the ranks and take on leadership roles within their agencies. They also have the opportunity to pursue further education and training to enhance their skills and expertise.To be eligible for a career in the civil service, individuals must meet certain educational and age requirements. In addition, they must pass a competitive examination, which is held annually by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The examination consists of written and oral components (Prelims, Mains and Interview), and candidates are evaluated on their knowledge of subjects such as current affairs, history, economics, global relations, public administration among others as well as their communication and leadership skills and aptitude.

While a career in the civil service can be rewarding and challenging, it also comes with its share of challenges. Civil servants are expected to work long hours and may be required to work in difficult or hazardous conditions. They may also face criticism and scrutiny from the public and media.

Despite these challenges, a career in the civil service can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience for those who are passionate about making a difference and serving their communities. It is a unique opportunity to contribute to the development and well-being of the nation, and to work towards the greater good of society.

The students are encouraged to refer to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) official website: This website provides information about the civil services examination, including the eligibility criteria, examination syllabus, and application process. It also provides access to past exam papers, which can be helpful for practice and preparation. https://www.upsc.gov.in/

Also refer to the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions: This ministry is responsible for the administration of the civil service in India. The ministry website provides information about the different agencies and departments that make up the civil service, as well as policies and programs related to civil service development and reform.

Jai Hind!

Civil Services Examination – Step by Step

I thank whole heartedly dear Tanuj Mathur, old friend and currently placed with Amity Lucknow Campus, who invited me to host a webinar on civil services exam preparation as a part of career counseling series for the students of liberal arts and business school. I was really happy and content to have done it.

The recording of the webinar is attached below. It can be viewed on Youtube as well on my channel. I have made all the efforts to outline the civil services preparation strategy with few practical and relevant tips deriving from my own experience.

In this webinar, you'll get to know about: 1. Making up your mind for this Exam 2. How to choose a subject (optional) 3. Word about coaching institutes 4. Place of preparation 5. Study material 6. Finances 7. Answer Writing 8. Day scheduling 9. Productivity resources 10. AND, lots of motivation.

It would be more gratifying if I could see few successful students from Amity Lucknow Campus in the years to come.

Cheers!