Government Announces Key Appointments in Economic Affairs, Railways, and Consumer Affairs
In a series of high-level appointments, the Government of India has placed senior officers in pivotal roles across economic, railway, and consumer affairs sectors.
Amrutha Varshini Palla Appointed Deputy Secretary, Economic Affairs
IRS officer Amrutha Varshini Palla (IRS-IT: 2014) has been appointed Deputy Secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) on central deputation, as per a DoPT order dated September 25, 2025. Her tenure, extending up to March 4, 2028, will combine both her ex-cadre and Central Staffing Scheme (CSS) deputation period. Recommended for central deputation by the Department of Revenue, Ms. Palla is set to assume charge of her new role shortly.
R. Rajagopal to Lead Traction & Rolling Stock in Railway Board
IRMS officer R. Rajagopal has been appointed as Member (Traction & Rolling Stock) of the Railway Board, a top-tier appointment approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). This strategic role is critical to Indian Railways’ modernization and electrification efforts.
The appointment comes as Indian Railways approaches its target of 100% broad-gauge electrification, with 97.05% completed as of February 1, 2025, and full electrification set for December 2025. Rajagopal’s leadership is expected to further accelerate upgrades in traction systems and rolling stock.
Rohit Kumar Singh Joins ASCI Board of Governors
Rohit Kumar Singh, former Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs and a 1989 batch IAS officer of the Rajasthan cadre, has been inducted into the Board of Governors of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) under the Eminent Persons Category.
With his vast experience in governance and consumer protection, Singh is expected to strengthen ASCI’s mission of upholding advertising standards and safeguarding consumer interests nationwide.
