RBI Names Veteran Banker Kesavan Ramachandran as Executive Director

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Kesavan Ramachandran as its new Executive Director (ED), with the appointment taking effect on July 1, 2025, as per the central bank’s official announcement. Ramachandran was promoted from his previous role as the Principal Chief General Manager in the Risk Monitoring Department of RBI.

A Veteran with Diverse Banking Experience

With a career spanning over 30 years, Ramachandran brings extensive experience across critical areas such as currency management, banking and non-banking supervision, training, and policy administration. He has also served as the Principal of the Reserve Bank Staff College and as RBI’s nominee director on the Board of Canara Bank for over 5 years.

Additionally, he contributed to regulatory standards as part of the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board of ICAI for 2 years. In his new role as Executive Director, Ramachandran will be overseeing the Prudential Regulation Division within the Department of Regulation.

RBI Flags Rising Public Debt and Valuation Risks

Coinciding with Ramachandran’s appointment, the RBI also released its June 2025 Financial Stability Report, highlighting key vulnerabilities in the Indian financial system. The report warned that a combination of soaring public debt, elevated asset valuations, and geopolitical uncertainties may increase the risk of market disruptions.

According to the RBI, volatility in core government bond markets driven by shifting global policies and geopolitical dynamics poses a growing concern. The central bank emphasized that these existing vulnerabilities could exacerbate any future financial shocks.

As per the government’s latest data, India’s total public debt is projected to rise to approximately ₹196.78 lakh crore by the end of FY 2025–26. This marks an increase from the ₹181.74 lakh crore estimated for FY 2024–25, reflecting ongoing fiscal pressures.

Read More: RBI- Forex Reserves Strong Enough to Handle 11+ Months of Import Needs.

Conclusion

The RBI’s appointment of Kesavan Ramachandran as Executive Director comes at a pivotal moment as the central bank manages evolving financial risks and regulatory challenges. While the new leadership bolsters institutional experience, the RBI's latest report serves as a reminder of the economic headwinds facing India’s financial ecosystem.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.