CSIR's First Woman DG N Kalaiselvi Gets Extension, Will Serve Till February 2027

The Centre has extended the tenure of N Kalaiselvi , the Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), allowing her to continue in office until February 28, 2027 . The decision ensures continuity in the leadership of one of India's premier scientific research organisations while reaffirming the government's confidence in her contribution to the country's research and innovation ecosystem.

According to an order issued by the Ministry of Personnel , the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the extension of Kalaiselvi's tenure as Director General, CSIR, and Secretary, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) beyond August 7, 2026 , up to the date of her superannuation on February 28, 2027 .

Kalaiselvi created history in August 2022 when she became the first woman to be appointed as the Director General of CSIR, breaking a long standing barrier in the country's scientific establishment. She was earlier granted a two year extension in July 2024 , and the latest decision allows her to complete her tenure until retirement.

Widely recognised for her pioneering work in lithium ion battery technology , Kalaiselvi has played a significant role in advancing research in energy storage, an area that has become increasingly important as India accelerates its transition towards clean energy and electric mobility.

Her journey within CSIR reflects decades of dedication to scientific research. She began her career as an entry level scientist at the CSIR Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CSIR CECRI) and steadily rose through the ranks. In February 2019 , she became the first woman scientist to head the prestigious institute, marking another milestone in her distinguished career.

A native of Ambasamudram in Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district , Kalaiselvi has built an impressive research portfolio focused on waste to wealth driven electrodes, electrolytes for energy storage, and electrocatalytic applications. Her work has contributed to developing sustainable technologies while strengthening India's capabilities in advanced materials and battery research.

The extension of her tenure comes at a time when India is placing greater emphasis on scientific innovation, clean energy technologies, and self-reliance in critical sectors. Her continued leadership is expected to support CSIR's ongoing research initiatives and further strengthen the organisation's role in driving technological advancement and industrial innovation across the country.