In a groundbreaking appointment, the Centre has named Jaya Verma Sinha as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairperson of the Railway Board, marking a historic moment in the Ministry of Railways’ 105-year history. Sinha, a distinguished alumna of Allahabad University, commenced her career in the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) back in 1986, and her professional journey has encompassed three significant railway zones, including Northern Railway, South Eastern Railway, and Eastern Railway.
The announcement was made by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), solidifying Jaya Verma Sinha’s ascent to the esteemed position of Chairman & CEO of the Railway Board, a role traditionally occupied by male incumbents. Her tenure is slated to commence as soon as September 1 and extend until August 31, 2024. Interestingly, her retirement date of October 1 will witness her immediate re-employment for the remaining duration of her term.
Ms. Sinha’s career in the railway sector has been marked by her prominent role as the public spokesperson during the tragic Balasore accident, which claimed the lives of nearly 300 individuals in Odisha. Her ability to elucidate the intricacies of the railway’s signaling system to the media played a crucial part in addressing the aftermath of the catastrophe.
Furthermore, Jaya Verma Sinha’s contributions transcended national borders during her four-year stint as the Railway Advisor at the High Commission of India in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Her pivotal role in the inauguration of the Maitree Express, a railway service connecting Kolkata and Dhaka, underscores her commitment to fostering regional connectivity.
In the annals of Indian Railways, Jaya Verma Sinha’s appointment as the first female CEO and Chairperson of the Railway Board stands as a testament to her dedication, competence, and trailblazing spirit.
