New Delhi: In a key administrative decision amid heightened national security concerns, Research & Analysis Wing (R&AW) Chief Parag Jain (IPS:1989:PB) has been entrusted with the additional charge of Secretary (Security) in the Cabinet Secretariat, a position that oversees the operations of the Special Protection Group (SPG) — the elite force responsible for the Prime Minister’s security.
Appointment Amid Heightened Security Concerns
The appointment comes at a time when the country’s security agencies are under increased pressure following the Red Fort blast in Delhi, which left 10 people dead and dozens injured.
As the intelligence and enforcement networks work in coordination to prevent further threats, Mr. Jain’s dual charge is seen as an attempt to ensure streamlined decision-making and continuity at the highest levels of national security.
DoPT Order Confirms Appointment
According to an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on Wednesday (November 12, 2025), the competent authority has approved the assignment of additional charge to Mr. Jain with immediate effect, until the appointment of a regular incumbent or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
Vacancy Since July 2025
The post of Secretary (Security) has been lying vacant since the retirement of Harinath Mishra (IPS:1990:KL) on July 31, 2025.
Although R.A. Chandra Sekhar (IPS:1991:KL), Special Director in the Intelligence Bureau (IB), had been named Mishra’s successor, he was subsequently appointed as Director General of Police (DGP), Kerala, and repatriated to his cadre before assuming the central post.
In the interim, Manoj Govil (IAS:1991:MP), Secretary (Coordination), Cabinet Secretariat, had been holding the additional charge.
About the Secretary (Security) Post
The Secretary (Security) in the Cabinet Secretariat functions as the administrative head of the SPG, coordinating with multiple intelligence and enforcement agencies to ensure the security of the Prime Minister and his immediate family.
The post also plays a key role in policy formulation on national security, particularly in areas involving close protection and high-level coordination between the SPG, Intelligence Bureau, and R&AW.
Profile: Parag Jain
Parag Jain, a 1989-batch IPS officer of the Punjab cadre, was appointed as Chief of the Research & Analysis Wing (R&AW) earlier this year.
He has held several critical intelligence and operational roles within the Indian security establishment and is widely regarded for his strategic acumen and operational leadership. His appointment to the dual role is being viewed as a move to strengthen synergy among India’s top security institutions.
