IB chief Tapan Deka gets one-year service extension

ANI May 20, 2025 218 views

The government has granted IB chief Tapan Deka a one-year extension, a rare move signaling trust in his leadership. This comes amid heightened security concerns following recent terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. Deka, known for his counterterrorism expertise, has strengthened India's intelligence coordination during his tenure. The extension ensures continuity as India faces complex security challenges.

"Deka's extension ensures strategic stability in India's counterterrorism efforts" – Official Source
New Delhi, May 20: The Central government has extended the tenure of Intelligence Bureau (IB) Director Tapan Kumar Deka by another year, affirming his continued leadership at the helm of India's premier intelligence agency.

Key Points

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Rare extension under relaxed service rules

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Deka credited with counterterrorism successes

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Enhanced inter-agency coordination under his leadership

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Comes amid heightened security threats post-Pahalgam attack

The extension was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to an official order issued on Tuesday, Deka's service will be extended for a period of one year beyond June 30, 2025, or until further orders, whichever comes earlier. The extension was granted by relaxing the provisions under Fundamental Rule (FR) 56(d) and Rule 16(1A) of the All India Services (Death-cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules, 1958 -- a measure rarely used and indicative of the government's strong trust in Deka's leadership.

Deka, a 1988-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Himachal Pradesh cadre, was appointed as IB chief in July 2022 for a two-year term. He was previously granted an extension in 2023, which was to conclude in June 2025.

Known for his operational expertise, Deka has had a long and distinguished career in the intelligence community. He is considered a key figure behind India's counterterrorism strategy and has played a pivotal role in several high-profile operations, including those targeting terrorist networks and insurgent groups.

During his tenure, the IB has reportedly enhanced its coordination with other intelligence and enforcement agencies, strengthened surveillance on internal threats, and expanded its role in handling cyber threats and counter-radicalisation efforts.

This extension comes at a time of heightened security concerns following the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam in which 26 tourists were gunned down by terrorists.

Deka's extension is significant as India prepares for potential challenges in its internal security environment. His continued presence at the helm is expected to provide strategic continuity and operational stability to the intelligence framework.

Reader Comments

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Rajesh K.
Good decision by the government! In these challenging times with terrorism and border tensions, we need experienced hands like Shri Deka at the helm. His track record speaks for itself. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
While I appreciate his service, shouldn't we be grooming younger officers too? Extensions should be exceptions, not norms. The system needs fresh perspectives to tackle modern security challenges like cyber threats.
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Amit S.
After the Pahalgam attack, this continuity is crucial. Deka sir understands the Pakistan-backed terror networks better than anyone. Hope he strengthens our intelligence-sharing with J&K police further.
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Sunita R.
His work in counter-radicalization is commendable! We need more focus on preventing youth from falling prey to extremist ideologies. Maybe IB should start awareness programs in colleges too.
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Vikram D.
Hope this extension means better coordination between IB, RAW and military intelligence. Our agencies sometimes work in silos - need more joint operations against threats from across borders.
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Neha T.
As someone from Himachal, proud to see our cadre officer leading IB! But I worry - with China's increasing activities near LAC, does IB have enough resources to handle both internal and external threats?

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Tags:
Tapan Deka IB Director extension Intelligence Bureau Modi government Counterterrorism National security