Jaya Verma becomes the first woman to head the Railway Board
Context
The head decision-making body of the Railway Ministry, the Railway Board, was nominated by the Union government to have Jaya Verma Sinha as its chair on Thursday. She will start working on Friday or later. She takes Anil Kumar Lahoti’s place.
In the 118-year history of the Board, Ms. Sinha will be the first woman to serve as chairman.
Appointment:
- The highest governing body of the Indian Railway Ministry, the Railway Board, has selected Jaya Verma Sinha for the position of chairperson.
- The Union government made this appointment.
Historical Significance:
- Jaya Verma Sinha’s appointment is significant in history because she was the first woman to serve as chair of the railway board.
- In the Railway Board’s 118-year history, this represents a key turning point.
Predecessor:
- Anil Kumar Lahoti, the previous Chairperson of the Railway Board, is replaced by her.
Current Position:
- Jaya Verma Sinha’s current job was Member (Operations and Business Development) of the Railway Board before she was nominated chairperson.
Handling a tragic incident:
- Managing the aftermath of the Balasore railway catastrophe, which claimed 291 lives, was made possible in large part by Ms. Sinha’s efforts.
- This demonstrates her knowledge and skill in handling serious railway incidents.
- Official Approval:
- The appointment of Jaya Verma Sinha as Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Railway Board has been given official approval by the Cabinet’s Appointments Committee.
- Tenure:
- As per the formal order, she will hold this new role until August 31, 2024.
- Retirement and Re-employment:
- It’s interesting to note that Ms. Sinha’s original retirement date was October 1. To finish out her term as Chairperson, she will be hired again on the same day.
- Career History:
- In 1988, Jaya Verma Sinha began working for the Indian Railway Traffic Service.
- Within numerous railroad zones, including the Northern Railway, South Eastern Railway, and Eastern Railway, she has held a variety of positions.
- She also held the position of Railway Advisor at the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, Bangladesh for 4 years.
