On 30 th April 2025, two seasoned officers took on significant responsibilities in India’s democratic and media institutions, marking a new chapter in their distinguished careers. Shri Rakesh Verma assumed charge as the Director General of the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) in New Delhi. A 1993 batch IAS officer of the Punjab cadre, Shri Verma brings with him a wealth of experience and a strong academic background, having earned a degree in Computer Science and Engineering from IIT Delhi. His previous roles include serving as Additional Secretary in the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, as well as key positions in the Ministry of Tourism.
On the same day, Shri Ashish Goyal took charge as the Director General of Media in the Election Commission of India. A 1996 batch Indian Information Service (IIS) officer, Shri Goyal holds an MBA from Panjab University and a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh. Prior to this, he served as the Director General of the National Museum under the Ministry of Culture, while also holding additional charge as Director of the Salar Jung Museum.
Both appointments reflect a thoughtful alignment of experience and leadership in key institutions that uphold India’s democratic framework and cultural narrative. Their contributions are expected to enhance the functioning and outreach of the institutions they now lead, and their commitment to public service stands as a reassuring signal of continuity and professionalism in the administrative fabric of the country.
