Agarwal's extension is part of the strengthening exercise at the FMC. The government is keen to amend the FMC Act of 1956, by passing the FMC Ammendment Bill in the current session of the parliament. But, given the political influx, the bill may be introduced in the next session. Meanwhile, the union cabinet has decided to strengthen the FMC's board by doubling its strength to four from two earlier.

Also, the government has decided to elevate the ranks of the officials of the FMC. The FMC chairman will be elevated to the rank of joint secetary level in the central ministry from the current level of additional secretary. Even the FMC members' rank too will be elevated to the post of additional secretary from current deputy secretary.

Currently, Padma Swaminathan, the other member ofthe FMC board, though technically a member of the FMC, has taken charge as financial advisor of Khadi & Village Industries Commission (KVIC). As a result, Aggarwal is the only person looking after FMC.

Earlier, the governement had deputed three officials to FMC from Goa, Calcutta and the Indian Revenue Services. However, given the conditions and the facilities available at the FMC's Mumbai office, they preferred not to join the FMC. As a result, the government is still on the lookout for persons willing to join the FMC.