Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC) in New Delhi has named Dr. Dharmendra Singh Gangwar, a senior IAS officer with over 35 years of experience in public health and administration, as its new Chief Executive Officer effective April 1, 2026, aiming to enhance clinical excellence, operational efficiency, and research in cancer care.
Glimpse:
Effective April 1, 2026, Dr. Gangwar takes charge at one of Asiaβs largest dedicated cancer centres. With a medical background from King Georgeβs Medical College, Lucknow, and extensive government experience including managing a healthcare budget of over INR 82,000 crore during the COVID-19 pandemic he is expected to drive improvements in patient outcomes, expand access to advanced therapies, and boost the instituteβs academic and research capabilities.
Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC), a prominent oncology facility in New Delhi, has appointed Dr. Dharmendra Singh Gangwar as its Chief Executive Officer starting April 1, 2026. This strategic leadership change seeks to further strengthen clinical standards, streamline operations, and advance research-driven cancer care at the institute, which has established itself as one of Asiaβs major dedicated cancer treatment and research centres.
Dr. Gangwar brings more than 35 years of rich experience from the Indian Administrative Service, government health policy, and international collaborations, including work with the World Health Organization. He holds a medical degree from King Georgeβs Medical College in Lucknow, giving him a unique blend of clinical insight and administrative expertise. In his previous high-level roles at the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, he served as Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor, playing a significant part in pandemic response efforts and overseeing a national healthcare budget exceeding INR 82,000 crore across various missions and institutions like AIIMS.
At RGCIRC, his focus will centre on improving patient outcomes, widening access to cutting edge cancer treatments, and enhancing academic and research programmes. He plans to leverage modern technology and build strong partnerships to create a more robust and future ready oncology ecosystem. His leadership style emphasises data-driven strategies, strong financial management, and overall institutional development.
Dr. Gangwar will continue in his current position as President of AIIMS Rewari while taking on this new responsibility. He has also received executive training from prestigious institutions such as Harvard Kennedy School, Duke University, and IIM Ahmedabad, further equipping him to guide RGCIRCβs next phase of growth with a strong emphasis on governance and patient centred approaches.
βIt is an honour to take on this responsibility at RGCIRC and contribute to making quality cancer care accessible to all. I aim to build on the instituteβs legacy while advancing patient care, services, and research.β
By
HB Team

