New Delhi: The Ministry of Railways has entrusted Rahul Himalian, Director (Tourism & Marketing) at the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), with the additional charge of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD). The appointment will come into effect from July 20, 2026, following the resignation of the current CMD, Sanjay Kumar Jain, whose resignation has been accepted by the competent authority.
The decision has been communicated through an official order issued by the Ministry of Railways and subsequently disclosed by IRCTC in a regulatory filing to the stock exchanges.
Rahul Himalian to Take Additional Charge as CMD from July 20
According to the Ministry of Railways’ order dated July 16, 2026, Rahul Himalian will assume the additional charge of Chairman and Managing Director while continuing to perform his existing responsibilities as Director (Tourism & Marketing) at IRCTC.
The arrangement will remain effective for three months from July 20, 2026, or until a regular CMD is appointed or further orders are issued, whichever is earlier.
Read also: Big News: IRCTC CMD Sanjay Kumar Jain Resigns; Government to Begin Search for New Chief Soon
Sanjay Kumar Jain to Step Down Following Resignation
The appointment follows the resignation of the incumbent CMD, Sanjay Kumar Jain. IRCTC informed the stock exchanges that the Ministry of Railways has notified the company that the post of CMD will become vacant from July 20, 2026, after Sanjay Kumar Jain is relieved from service upon the acceptance of his resignation by the competent authority.
The Ministry’s decision ensures that the top leadership position remains filled during the transition period.
IRCTC Confirms Appointment Through Regulatory Filing
In its regulatory filing submitted to the stock exchanges on Thursday, IRCTC confirmed that it had received the Ministry’s communication regarding the appointment of Rahul Himalian as the officer holding the additional charge of CMD.
The filing stated that the arrangement is temporary and has been made to ensure uninterrupted administrative and operational leadership until a permanent CMD is appointed.
Leadership Transition to Ensure Operational Continuity
The leadership change comes at an important time as IRCTC continues to handle millions of railway passengers through its online ticketing platform, catering services, and tourism operations.
By assigning the additional responsibility to Rahul Himalian, an experienced board-level executive already serving the corporation, the Ministry of Railways aims to ensure smooth functioning and continuity in decision-making during the transition period.
Industry to Watch Future Leadership and Growth Strategy
The appointment is expected to attract attention from railway and infrastructure sector observers, as IRCTC continues to strengthen its digital ecosystem and expand its tourism and hospitality business.
With Rahul Himalian leading the corporation on an interim basis, the company is expected to maintain its focus on improving passenger services, enhancing digital ticketing platforms, expanding tourism offerings, and strengthening catering operations across the Indian Railways network.
About IRCTC
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is a Miniratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways. It is responsible for managing online railway ticket booking, onboard catering services, Rail Neer packaged drinking water, executive lounges, and railway tourism packages. As the digital arm of Indian Railways for passenger services, IRCTC plays a crucial role in enhancing travel convenience through technology-driven solutions, catering services, and tourism initiatives across India.
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