IRCTC CMD Sanjay Kumar Jain Resigns, Citing Personal Reasons
From transforming the Maharajas’ Express to pioneering airport-style Executive Lounges at railway stations, Sanjay Kumar Jain leaves behind a legacy of innovation at IRCTC
Sanjay Kumar Jain, Chairman & Managing Director of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, has tendered his resignation, which has been accepted by the government. However, he will continue in office until July 20, 2026. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the evolution of IRCTC, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening railway tourism, catering services, and passenger-centric initiatives.
A 1990-batch officer of the Indian Railway Traffic Service, Jain assumed charge as CMD of IRCTC on February 14, 2024. During his tenure, the PSU expanded its footprint across ticketing, tourism, hospitality, and catering services while maintaining its position as one of the most profitable public sector enterprises under the Ministry of Railways.
Architect of Railway Tourism Innovation
Jain is widely credited with redefining luxury rail tourism in India. He was instrumental in giving the iconic Maharajas’ Express a new identity through innovative marketing initiatives and enhanced customer experiences, helping position it among the world’s premier luxury train journeys.
Among his notable achievements was the launch of India’s first airport-style Executive Lounge at New Delhi Railway Station, a concept that transformed passenger amenities and was later replicated at other major stations.
He also developed the financial and operational model for ‘Jan Ahar – New Delhi’, an affordable food service initiative that subsequently became a template for similar projects across IRCTC.
Driving Tourism Growth
Under Jain’s leadership, IRCTC’s North Zone tourism business witnessed remarkable growth, expanding nearly 35 times over a five-year period. His strategic focus on tourism packages, rail-based experiences, and customer-centric offerings helped establish IRCTC as a key player in India’s tourism ecosystem.
A Decorated Railway Officer
Jain’s contributions have been recognised at the highest levels of Indian Railways. He is among the select officers to have received the prestigious Minister of Railways Award twice for meritorious service.
He received the honour in 1999 while serving as Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Danapur, and again in 2019 during his tenure as Divisional Railway Manager, Mumbai CSMT, Central Railway.
From Bhagalpur to the Top of IRCTC
Originally from Bhagalpur, Jain comes from a respected business family. After completing his schooling in Bhagalpur, he moved to Kolkata to pursue higher studies in Chartered Accountancy.
Over a distinguished career spanning more than three decades, he held several key positions across Indian Railways and emerged as one of the most respected administrators in the sector.
His resignation is being viewed as a significant development for both IRCTC and the Ministry of Railways, given his role in modernising railway tourism and enhancing passenger services across the country.
