Manish Desai Assumes Leadership at the PIB

Strategic Appointments

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has undertaken substantial leadership changes to bolster government communication. A prominent shift involves the transfer of Manish Desai, the former Chief of the Central Bureau of Communications (CBC), to assume the role of heading the Press Information Bureau (PIB).

Download Free February 2024 BOLT PDF (Current Affairs)

Manish Desai: A Career of Distinction

Remarkable Professional Journey

Manish Desai, a distinguished member of the Indian Information Service (IIS) since 1989, has held influential positions throughout his illustrious career. His recent role as CBC Chief involved overseeing the government’s advertising and public communication arm, encompassing diverse communication activities across various media platforms, including print, electronic, outdoor, transit, and new media.

Furthermore, from November 2019 to January 2020, Manish Desai served as the Director General of the Registrar of Newspapers of India (RNI). His significant contributions extend to a six-year tenure as the Additional Director General (ADG) of PIB from 2012 to 2018, and he has also held the position of Director General of the West Zone PIB in Mumbai.

Key Changes in Government Communication Leadership: Manish Desai

Manish Desai’s New Role

Manish Desai’s appointment as the Principal Director General of PIB is a significant development, aligning with the imminent retirement of Rajesh Malhotra, who has been leading the media outreach unit since 2022.

Crucial Press Registrar Appointment

Another noteworthy transition is the appointment of Bhupendra Kainthola, the former Principal Director General of PIB, Kolkata, as the Press Registrar. This role assumes a pivotal responsibility in overseeing press-related matters and promises fresh perspectives in this domain.

Leadership Shift at CBC

Dhirendra Ojha, the current Press Registrar, is poised to assume the role of the new CBC Chief following Manish Desai’s transition. This change signifies a dynamic reshuffling of leadership within crucial government communication entities.

PIB’s Centennial Celebration: A Historic Milestone

Legacy of the Press Information Bureau

The Press Information Bureau (PIB), serving as the principal agency for disseminating information on behalf of the Indian government, commemorated its centennial anniversary in June of this year. Established in Shimla in June 1919 as the Central Publicity Board, it initially operated under the colonial government’s Home Ministry. Its initial mission was to compile an annual report on India for presentation to the British Parliament.

Historical Significance

At its inception, the first individual to lead the publicity cell was Dr. LF Rushbrook Williams, affiliated with Allahabad University, holding the title of Officer on Special Duty. These recent appointments mark substantial changes in the leadership of vital government communication entities and celebrate important milestones in the history of the Press Information Bureau.

Priti Palit

Priti Palit, an accomplished edtech writer, boasts a wealth of experience in preparing candidates for multiple government exams. With a passion for education and a keen eye for detail, she has contributed significantly to the field of online learning. Priti’s expertise and dedication continue to empower aspiring individuals in their pursuit of success in government examinations.

Oliveboard Live Courses & Mock Test Series