Important Facts of the News
- Sanjay Garg is a 1994-batch IAS officer from Kerala cadre.
- Took charge as Director General of BIS from 1 November 2025.
- Brings over 30 years of experience in civil services.
- Previously served as Additional Secretary at DARE and Secretary at ICAR.
- Led digital transformation in agricultural research and administration.
- Key contributor to the Kisan Sarathi portal’s growth.
- Has managed World Bank projects and promoted defence and leather industry sectors.
- Will also act as President of India’s national committee in IEC.
Sanjay Garg takes helm at Bureau of Indian Standards
Shri Sanjay Garg, a seasoned Indian Administrative Service officer of the 1994 batch from the Kerala cadre, has officially taken over as the Director General of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the nation’s key standards-setting body. His appointment has been effective from 1 November 2025.
Rich experience across sectors
With a vast administrative background stretching across three decades, Shri Garg has worked across multiple sectors including agriculture, food logistics, defence industry promotion, finance and various social welfare areas. His expertise includes strategic planning and policy implementation at both the state and national levels.
Key role in agricultural transformation
Before stepping into his new role at BIS, Shri Garg served as Additional Secretary at the Department of Agriculture, Research and Education (DARE) and also held the position of Secretary at the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR). During this tenure, he led digital transformation efforts, applying information technology to improve research management and administrative functions.
A notable achievement under his leadership was the expansion and scaling up of the Kisan Sarathi portal, a vital platform connecting farmers directly with agricultural experts and scientists.
Leadership in industrial and global standards arena
Shri Garg has also contributed to the administration of World Bank-assisted projects in India and has been involved in industrial reforms, especially in deregulating the defence industry and promoting the leather sector.
In his current role as BIS Director General, he will also serve as the President of India’s national committee within the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), positioning him at the forefront of national and global standardization efforts.
Conclusion
With his wide-ranging experience and leadership across key industries and government initiatives, Shri Sanjay Garg’s appointment marks a new chapter for BIS as it continues to uphold and advance national standards in diverse sectors.