The Central Government has appointed senior IPS officer Parag Jain as the next Chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), India’s external intelligence agency. Jain, a 1989-batch officer of the Punjab cadre, will take charge on July 1, 2025, following the completion of incumbent Ravi Sinha’s tenure on June 30.
Currently serving as the head of the Aviation Research Centre (ARC), RAW’s aerial surveillance and reconnaissance division, Jain is the second senior-most official in the agency. He will serve a fixed two-year term as RAW chief.
Jain brings over two decades of experience within RAW, having held several sensitive positions. He previously led the Pakistan desk and played a crucial role in intelligence operations related to Jammu and Kashmir, especially during the abrogation of Article 370.
Prior to his deputation to RAW, Jain served extensively in Punjab, where he was actively involved in counter-terrorism operations during the peak of insurgency. He held the positions of Senior Superintendent of Police and Deputy Inspector General in multiple districts.
Jain has also undertaken key international assignments, including postings at Indian missions in Sri Lanka and Canada. During these stints, he was instrumental in monitoring and reporting on Khalistani extremist activities operating from foreign soil.
His appointment is seen as a continuation of experienced leadership within RAW at a time when regional and global intelligence dynamics remain complex and challenging.
