India names Ravi Sinha as the next RAW chief

India said on Monday it has approved the appointment of Ravi Sinha as the next secretary at the Research & Analysis Wing (RAW).

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Sinha, who will be taking over from Samant Kurnar Goel after the end of his tenure in office on June 30, 2023.

Sinha's appointment is effective for a period of two years from the date he assumes office, or until further orders, whichever comes earlier, the government said in a statement.


Sinha's appointment comes amid the government's commitment to strengthening India's intelligence apparatus and ensuring seamless continuity in crucial positions, amid recent tensions at the border with China.

Sinha, a 1988 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Chhattisgarh cadre, is currently serving as the PSO (Personal Security Officer) and Special Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat (SR).

The Research & Analysis Wing, India's premier external intelligence agency, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the country's interests on the global stage. As the head of RAW, Sinha will be responsible for leading and coordinating intelligence operations, gathering vital information, and providing insightful analysis to policymakers.