Extensions upon extensions on the trot to the key positions of the incumbents corroborate that the Government of India is devoid of competent officers who can succeed them.

The Government of India is in search of such officers who should be at par with these incumbents and extending tenure after failing to find the same. 

As a matter of fact, these extensions have queered the pitches of many aspirants vying for key positions.

These officers appear to be hot favourites of the Government of India and refuse to relinquish the offices.

Gurdeep Singh was appointed as CMD, NTPC for a period of five years on February 4, 2016.  He was accorded extension for the second time for yet another five years in 2021 and ended his second term in July 2025.  He was given a third extension for a further period of one year till July 2026. Now, he has been given an extension of six months.

In yet another case, Arun Kumar Singh, who had completed his tenure as CMD, BPCL, was installed as new Chairman, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) in December 2022 for a period of three years. His tenure came to an end in December 2025. Yet, he was given another extension for a period of one year till December, 2026.

On the other hand, Satish Kumar was appointed as Chairman, Railway Board with effect from September, 1 2024 and on re-employment on contract basis with effect from January 1, 2025 till August 31, 2025. 

He served on contract basis à la his predecessor Mrs  Jaya Varma Sinha with effect from January 1, 2025 to August 31, 2025. He was given an extension for a period of one year till August 2026. Now, he enjoys yet another extension of one-year for the third time till August 2027.