About
I am Prabhat Kumar, an officer of the Indian Revenue Service (Customs and Indirect Taxes), 1994 batch. Over more than three decades in public service, I have worked across tax administration, investigation, adjudication, vigilance and the development of public institutions.
My career has included field and appellate assignments, service with the Central Vigilance Commission, and work as Chief Vigilance Officer of Pawan Hans. I currently serve as Principal Additional Director General at the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics in Mumbai, where officer training and institutional capacity-building are central to the work.
My education has shaped a lasting interest in how technology, management and public institutions can contribute to national development. I studied Civil Engineering and Management and Systems at IIT Delhi, and later earned a Master of Public Administration from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University.
I also serve as Chairman of PanIIT Alumni India. My book, IIT: The Story of India’s Most Prestigious Educational Ecosystem, explores the evolution of the IITs, their achievements and their wider contribution through generations of alumni. Across these roles, I remain interested in the ideas, people and institutions that strengthen public service and help India meet the challenges ahead.
My work in public service has centred on strengthening tax administration, supporting vigilance and integrity, and building the capabilities of public institutions. Across field, appellate, investigative and training assignments, I have seen how sound institutions, skilled officers and thoughtful use of technology can make governance more effective.
Tax administration and indirect taxes
Investigation and enforcement
Adjudication and appeals
Vigilance and anti-corruption
Officer training and capacity-building
PanIIT Alumni Leadership
International Customs Cooperation
Writing, Books and Public Ideas