Parag Jain, 1989‑batch IPS officer of Punjab cadre, appointed RAW chief

New Delhi: The Government of India has announced the appointment of Parag Jain, a seasoned 1989-batch IPS officer from the Punjab cadre, as the new chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW).

Jain will succeed Ravi Sinha, whose two-year tenure as RAW chief concludes on June 30, 2025. The transition is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with Jain slated to serve a fixed two-year term.

Known within intelligence circles as a 'super sleuth', Jain brings to the top post a reputation for effectively combining human intelligence (HUMINT) with technical intelligence (TECHINT), a mix that officials say has been crucial to several high-stakes operations.

One of his most lauded contributions in recent years was during Operation Sindoor, where intelligence inputs under his leadership enabled precision missile strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

While the missile hits took minutes, insiders stressed that years of groundwork and painstaking network-building made such pinpoint targeting possible.

Jain's extensive experience on the ground in Jammu and Kashmir, one of India's most challenging security theatres, is also expected to weigh in his favour as the country navigates an increasingly volatile global security environment.

Described by senior officials as methodical and discreet, Jain has held several key roles throughout his career. He was promoted to the rank of Director General of Police (DGP) in Punjab on January 1, 2021, though he was then serving on central deputation and thus received only notional benefits.

He was also empanelled to hold posts equivalent to a central DGP, underlining his credentials for leadership in the national intelligence framework. Jain has previously represented India in Canada and Sri Lanka.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet cleared his name on June 28, ending speculation over who would succeed Ravi Sinha, whose tenure was considered relatively low-profile.