Rajesh Kumar Singh Gets Additional Charge as DRDO Chairman

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh was given the additional charge of Secretary, Department of Defence Research and Development, and Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on 29 May 2026. He will take up the additional responsibilities from 31 May 2026, after the completion of the tenure of Dr. Samir V. Kamat.

Defence Research and Development Organisation

The Defence Research and Development Organisation is India’s premier defence research agency under the Ministry of Defence. It works on military technology, weapons systems, and strategic research for the armed forces.

Appointments Committee of the Cabinet

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approves senior-level appointments in the Government of India. It issued the order for this additional charge on 29 May 2026.

Rajesh Kumar Singh

Rajesh Kumar Singh is a 1989-batch Indian Administrative Service officer of the Kerala cadre. He has served as Defence Secretary since 1 November 2024.

Important Facts for Exams

• The DRDO functions under the Department of Defence Research and Development in the Ministry of Defence.
• Dr. Samir V. Kamat served as DRDO Chairman from August 2022.
• Additional charge in government service is usually held until a regular incumbent is appointed or until further orders.
• The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet handles key appointments at the Union government level.

Rajesh Kumar Singh will hold the additional charge until a regular incumbent is appointed or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Dr. Samir V. Kamat’s tenure as DRDO Chairman ended on 31 May 2026.