In a major step aimed at fortifying India’s external intelligence framework, the central government has appointed senior IPS officer Parag Jain as the next chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW). A 1989-batch officer from the Punjab cadre, Jain will succeed Ravi Sinha as Secretary, R&AW, starting July 1, 2025, for a fixed term of two years.
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved his elevation on June 28, ending widespread speculation about the agency’s next leadership amidst rising regional security threats.
An Intelligence Veteran With a Proven Track Record
Jain brings more than 30 years of expertise in internal security, intelligence, and counter-terrorism operations. Known for his strategic acumen, he played a pivotal role in Operation Sindoor—a landmark mission that enabled targeted missile strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Often described as a “super sleuth,” Jain is lauded for his ability to combine human (HUMINT) and technical (TECHINT) intelligence to support high-impact military operations.
Deep Operational Experience and Global Exposure
Jain’s credentials are bolstered by extensive on-ground experience in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly during critical events like the abrogation of Article 370 and Operation Balakot. He has held key law enforcement roles such as SSP Chandigarh and DIG Ludhiana, and served during Punjab’s most volatile phases in cities like Bhatinda, Mansa, and Hoshiarpur.
Internationally, he served in Canada and Sri Lanka, where he was instrumental in tracking Khalistani networks and flagging extremist threats long before they gained broader attention.
Leadership Amid Institutional Scrutiny
Promoted to Director General of Police (DGP) rank in 2021, Jain was serving on central deputation when the announcement was made. He is empanelled for top-tier central roles, solidifying his status as a senior figure in India’s intelligence ecosystem.
His appointment comes at a time when R&AW has drawn criticism over intelligence failures—most notably its inability to foresee the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025—despite mounting threats from across the border.
Shaping R&AW’s Strategic Evolution
With Field Marshal Asim Munir heading Pakistan’s military and a surge in cross-border terrorism, Jain is expected to steer R&AW toward strengthening ground-level intelligence and enhancing HUMINT capabilities.
He will also be tasked with addressing criticism over recent lapses in the Maldives and Bangladesh, pushing for modernization, deeper surveillance systems, and faster response mechanisms.
A Vision for the Future
As R&AW enters a new chapter, Parag Jain’s leadership is expected to focus on recalibrating India’s external intelligence posture—particularly against threats from Pakistan, China, and extremist diaspora elements abroad.
About R&AW
Formed in 1968, R&AW’s first director, RN Kao, is remembered as India’s legendary spymaster. Serving till 1977, Kao later became India’s first National Security Advisor and a key figure in shaping international intelligence cooperation under successive prime ministers.
