Punjab Communications Limited (PCL), a state-owned enterprise engaged in providing communication and technology solutions, has announced a major change in its management. The company filed an official disclosure with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) on 27th August 2025, in compliance with Regulation 30 of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.

The change comes after its holding company, Punjab Information and Communication Technology Corporation Limited (Punjab Infotech), issued a letter dated 26th August 2025 withdrawing the nomination of Sh. Rahul Chaba, IAS (DIN: 11056486) as Director on the Board of the company.

In his place, Sh. Sandeep Hans, IAS, a 2010 batch Indian Administrative Service officer, has been appointed as Director in the capacity of Sr. Vice Chairman on the Board of the company, effective 26th August 2025. The appointment was approved in the company’s 232nd Board meeting held on the same date.

Appointment of Sh. Sandeep Hans IAS

Sh. Sandeep Hans, IAS brings with him extensive administrative and governance experience. He is currently serving as the Managing Director of Punjab Infotech, which is the holding company of Punjab Communications Limited. His career includes various key postings such as:

• Director-cum-Additional Secretary, Social Justice, Empowerment & Minorities

• Special Secretary, Personnel

• Special Secretary, General Administration & Coordination

• Special Secretary, Printing & Stationery

• Additional CEO, Punjab Bureau of Investment Promotion

• Deputy Commissioner, Patiala

With such a diverse administrative background, his appointment as Sr. Vice Chairman is expected to strengthen the company’s governance and strategic leadership.

Additionally, under SEBI compliance, Punjab Communications has confirmed that Sh. Sandeep Hans IAS is not debarred from holding the office of Director by any SEBI order or similar authority. This assurance ensures transparency and adherence to regulatory norms.

Cessation of Sh. Rahul Chaba IAS

The outgoing director, Sh. Rahul Chaba, IAS, ceased to be on the Board of the company following the withdrawal of his nomination by Punjab Infotech. His cessation is effective from 26th August 2025.

While the company has not specified reasons beyond the holding company’s withdrawal, such changes are often aligned with broader administrative reshuffling within state-run enterprises and government-nominated directorships.

Significance of the Change

The Board of Directors of a public sector undertaking plays a critical role in ensuring compliance, setting strategies, and guiding operational decisions. The appointment of Sh. Sandeep Hans IAS as Sr. Vice Chairman is significant as it places an experienced IAS officer with multiple governance roles at the helm of leadership alongside other directors.

This move also aligns Punjab Communications Limited closely with its holding company Punjab Infotech, since the newly appointed Sr. Vice Chairman already serves as the Managing Director of Punjab Infotech. This dual role can help in improving coordination, decision-making, and policy alignment between the parent and subsidiary company.

Compliance with SEBI Guidelines

The disclosure made to the Bombay Stock Exchange under Regulation 30 highlights Punjab Communications Limited’s commitment to transparency and regulatory compliance. Furthermore, in pursuance of SEBI Circular No. LIST/COMP/14/2018-19 dated June 20, 2018, the company has provided an assurance that the appointed director is free of any regulatory restrictions.

Such proactive communication with stock exchanges is crucial for investor confidence and corporate governance in listed entities. It ensures that all stakeholders, including shareholders and market regulators, are aware of key management changes.

Corporate Governance Perspective

For investors and stakeholders, this change signals a renewed leadership approach for Punjab Communications Limited. With Sandeep Hans IAS taking over as Sr. Vice Chairman, the company can potentially benefit from his administrative insights and his experience across multiple government departments.

The appointment also demonstrates how public sector enterprises in India often align their management structure with government priorities, as directors are nominated by holding companies or state governments. This practice ensures that the strategic direction of the company remains aligned with state policies and development goals.

Conclusion

The change in directorship at Punjab Communications Limited, with Sh. Sandeep Hans IAS taking over as Sr. Vice Chairman and the cessation of Sh. Rahul Chaba IAS, marks an important development in the company’s leadership.

This move, approved in the company’s 232nd Board meeting and disclosed in full compliance with SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, reflects the company’s commitment to corporate governance, transparency, and accountability.

With his rich administrative experience, Sandeep Hans IAS is expected to play a key role in guiding Punjab Communications Limited towards its future goals, strengthening its governance framework, and enhancing alignment with its holding company, Punjab Infotech.

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