Aparna Garg Takes Charge as Member (Finance), Railway Board

On December 1, 2025, Ms. Aparna Garg, a senior Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS) officer from the 1987 batch, officially took charge as the Member (Finance) of the Railway Board, one of the top administrative positions in Indian Railways. With over 36 years of service, she brings in-depth experience in public finance, railway operations, and transport policy. This appointment places her at the financial helm of one of the world’s largest railway networks, where fiscal discipline, strategic budgeting, and capital investments are critical to infrastructure growth and operational efficiency.

Background and Career Highlights

Ms. Garg has served in various strategic roles within the Indian Railways ecosystem, including,

• Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Mysore
• Principal Financial Advisor, Rail Wheel Factory
• Director General, Indian Railways Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM)

These roles reflect her deep understanding of both operational and financial frameworks of Indian Railways, balancing regional, industrial, and institutional perspectives.

Academic Excellence and International Exposure

Ms. Aparna Garg is known not just for her administrative acumen, but also for her strong academic and global credentials,

• Chevening Fellow, a prestigious UK government international award
• Holds an Advanced Master’s Degree in Transport Economics from the University of Leeds, United Kingdom

Received executive training from globally reputed institutions including,

• Bocconi School of Management, Milan
• INSEAD, Singapore
• Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad

Her academic background in transport economics and policy design aligns with the evolving needs of the Indian Railways as it embraces public-private partnerships, modernization, and financial sustainability.

Significance of the Appointment

As Member (Finance) of the Railway Board, Ms. Garg now oversees,

• Budget formulation and expenditure control
• Investment planning and evaluation
• Resource mobilization, including extra-budgetary funding
• Financial policy alignment with Make in India, PM Gati Shakti, and Viksit Bharat 2047 goals

Her appointment comes at a crucial time as Indian Railways is undergoing transformational reforms—ranging from infrastructure upgrades, green energy initiatives, to high-speed rail and digitalization. Having a leader with global insight and hands-on governance experience is vital to ensure effective fiscal strategy and risk management.