Retired IAS officer Vikram Singh Mehta has been appointed as the new Chairman of IndiGo, taking over from Venkataramani Sumantran, who led the airline through a critical post-pandemic recovery phase over the last three years.
Mr. Mehta, already a member of IndiGo’s board, brings with him a distinguished career spanning public administration, global corporate leadership, and policy research. A 1978-batch Indian Administrative Service officer, he served briefly in the civil services before making a successful transition into the private sector.
Extensive Corporate Experience
Mr. Mehta has held top leadership roles in some of India’s most respected companies, including:
Board Member: Colgate-Palmolive India, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Larsen & Toubro
Former Chairman: Shell Group of Companies, India
CEO Roles: Shell Markets and Shell Chemicals, Egypt
His vast experience in energy, manufacturing, and consumer goods has made him one of the most respected corporate minds in India.
Prominent Role in Policy & Academia
Beyond the corporate world, Mr. Mehta has made significant contributions to public policy and research, including:
Chairman: Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP), a leading think tank
Former Executive Chairman: Brookings India
Senior Fellow: Brookings Institution, Washington, D.C.
His insights into governance, economics, and energy policy are widely recognized in academic and policy circles.
Honours & Recognition
Mr. Mehta’s accomplishments have earned him numerous accolades:
Named “Businessman of the Year” by Asia House in 2010
Awarded “Best Independent Director” by the Asia Centre for Corporate Governance and Sustainability in 2016
Academic Background
Bachelor’s Degree: Mathematics, St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University
Master’s Degrees:
Politics and Economics, Oxford University
Energy Economics, Tufts University
A Strategic Leadership Move for IndiGo
Mr. Mehta’s appointment is seen as a strategic step for India’s largest airline, combining his governance expertise and global corporate acumen to guide IndiGo through its next phase of growth and transformation.
