M N Vidyashankar, born on January 29, 1954, is a retired Indian Administrative Service officer from the 1982 Karnataka cadre. He holds a postgraduate degree and a graduate degree in Economics. Throughout his career, he served in various capacities including Additional Chief Secretary in the Department of Commerce and Industry from August 13, 2013, to January 31, 2014. His extensive experience includes roles such as Principal Secretary, Chief Electoral Officer, Secretary, Commissioner, Chairman, Special Secretary, Director, Executive Member, Deputy Secretary, Chief Secretary, Deputy Commissioner, and Assistant Commissioner.