Rakesh Aggarwal, a 1994-batch Indian Police Service officer of the Himachal Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the new Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He will hold the top post until August 31, 2028, according to official orders issued on Wednesday.
The appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As per the order, Aggarwal will assume charge at Level-16 of the pay matrix and continue in the role until the date of his superannuation, unless directed otherwise.
Aggarwal’s elevation follows the premature repatriation of former NIA Director General Sadanand Vasant Date to his parent Maharashtra cadre. After Date’s return, the ACC had assigned Aggarwal the additional charge of NIA Director General in December last year, making him the interim head of the agency.
Experience within the Agency
Before being formally appointed as Director General, Aggarwal served as Special Director General of the NIA. He was appointed to this position in September 2025 on an in-situ basis, with his post of Additional Director General temporarily upgraded for a period of two years.
His long association with the agency and experience in handling complex investigations are seen as key factors behind his appointment.
Officials said Aggarwal’s confirmation as NIA chief ensures continuity at the country’s premier counter-terror and anti-terrorism investigation agency.
About the NIA
The National Investigation Agency functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs and is responsible for probing cases related to terrorism, national security and other serious crimes affecting the sovereignty of the country.
