Key appointment from July 15 to July 31, 2024

Robert Jerard Ravi

Robert Jerard Ravi was appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) on July 15, 2024. This significant move by the Indian government marks a new chapter for the state-run telecom operator. Ravi brings a wealth of experience to the role, having held various senior positions within the telecommunications industry. His leadership is expected to drive the modernization and expansion of BSNL's services, focusing on improving network infrastructure and customer satisfaction.

 Arun Kumar Bansal

Arun Kumar Bansal was appointed as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Paytm Payments Bank, an associate entity of One97 Communications. Prior to this role, Bansal served as the Executive Director and Head of Treasury at IDBI Bank. His appointment followed the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) approval, which led to his resignation from IDBI Bank. Bansal’s extensive experience in banking and finance is anticipated to enhance Paytm Payments Bank's operational efficiency and strategic growth.

 Vinay Kwatra

Vinay Kwatra was appointed as India's new Ambassador to the United States on July 20, 2024. Kwatra, a seasoned diplomat with over three decades of experience, has held several key positions within the Indian Foreign Service. His previous assignments include serving as the Ambassador to Nepal and the Joint Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office. Kwatra’s expertise in foreign policy and international relations is expected to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and the United States, focusing on areas such as trade, defense, and regional security.

 Preeti Sudan

Former Union Health Secretary Preeti Sudan, an IAS officer from the 1983 batch, was appointed as the new Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on July 31, 2024, following Manoj Soni's resignation. Sudan is the second woman to hold this position. Her tenure in the civil services has seen her contribute significantly to national programs like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, and Ayushman Bharat. Her leadership at UPSC is expected to bring a renewed focus on transparent and efficient recruitment processes for civil servants.

 Manoj Mittal

Manoj Mittal was appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) on July 29, 2024. Mittal brings over 33 years of experience in the finance sector, having previously served as the Managing Director and CEO of IFCI and as Deputy Managing Director at SIDBI. His extensive experience in financial management and development banking is expected to enhance SIDBI's role in promoting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in India.

 Suhel Ajaz Khan

Suhel Ajaz Khan, the Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, was concurrently accredited as the Ambassador to Yemen on July 27, 2024. Based in Riyadh, Khan’s new role involves managing diplomatic relations with Yemen, a country situated in the southern Arabian Peninsula. His appointment is crucial in navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of the region, particularly in enhancing bilateral cooperation and addressing humanitarian issues in Yemen.