Whalesbook
New Leadership at CII for 2026-27
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has appointed R. Mukundan, the Managing Director & CEO of Tata Chemicals, as its President for the 2026-27 term. This move places a seasoned industry veteran at the helm of one of India's most influential business associations. Mukundan's extensive career within the Tata Group, spanning over three decades across various sectors, brings a wealth of experience to the role.
Key Appointments Signal Strategic Direction
Suchitra K. Ella, the Co-founder and Managing Director of Bharat Biotech, has been elected as the CII President-Designate. Ella, a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, is renowned for her contributions to the biotechnology sector, particularly in vaccine development. Shashwat Goenka, Vice Chairman of the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group and a recognized Young Global Leader, will serve as the CII Vice President. Goenka's prior experience, including chairing the CII Eastern Region, positions him to contribute significantly.
Industry Body's Role and Future Focus
These leadership transitions are critical for CII's role in shaping India's economic and industrial policy. The diverse expertise of Mukundan in chemicals, Ella in biotech and healthcare, and Goenka in diversified business operations is expected to guide the association's agenda. CII's advocacy efforts will likely focus on areas such as manufacturing competitiveness, sustainable development, and innovation, influencing the broader business environment and contributing to India's growth trajectory.