New Delhi | July 29, 2026: The Railway Board has approved the appointment of Shri Rahul Himalian, currently serving as Director (Tourism & Marketing) at the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), to hold the additional charge of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the corporation for a period of nine months.
According to an official order issued by the Ministry of Railways (Railway Board) on July 29, 2026, under Reference No. 2019/E(O)II/40/18, the Competent Authority has approved the temporary arrangement with effect from July 20, 2026.
Under the new assignment, Rahul Himalian will continue to perform his existing responsibilities as Director (Tourism & Marketing) while simultaneously discharging the duties of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of IRCTC. The arrangement is intended to ensure uninterrupted leadership and smooth functioning of one of India’s most important public sector enterprises.
The Railway Board stated that the additional charge will remain in force for nine months, or until a regular CMD assumes office, or until further orders are issued by the competent authority, whichever is earlier.
Leadership Continuity at IRCTC
The appointment comes as part of the government’s efforts to maintain administrative continuity at IRCTC, a Miniratna Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU) operating under the Ministry of Railways. Temporary leadership arrangements of this nature are commonly adopted in Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) while the process of appointing a full-time chief executive is underway.
As Director (Tourism & Marketing), Rahul Himalian has been associated with several initiatives aimed at expanding rail tourism, promoting hospitality services, and strengthening IRCTC’s tourism and marketing portfolio. His additional responsibility as CMD is expected to ensure seamless decision-making and operational stability during the interim period.
About IRCTC
Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is the flagship public sector enterprise responsible for managing several key passenger services for Indian Railways. Its major functions include:
- Online railway ticket booking through India’s largest rail reservation platform.
- Onboard catering services and food management for train passengers.
- Rail-based tourism packages, including domestic and international travel.
- Management of executive lounges, budget hotels, and other passenger amenities.
- Promotion of Bharat Gaurav tourist trains and other specialized tourism initiatives.
With millions of passengers relying on its services every day, IRCTC plays a crucial role in enhancing the travel experience across the Indian Railways network.
Official Order Communicated
The Ministry of Railways confirmed that the appointment order has been formally communicated to Shri Rahul Himalian, senior officials of the Railway Board, the Ministry of Railways, and the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) for necessary action and compliance.
The latest appointment reinforces the government’s commitment to ensuring stable leadership, efficient governance, and uninterrupted operations in one of India’s most strategically important public sector organizations while the process for selecting a regular Chairman and Managing Director continues.
