Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Marking the end of an illustrious 45-year journey in public service, Amitabh Kant has officially stepped down as India’s G20 Sherpa. But far from slowing down, Kant is gearing up for a new mission—fueling the vision of Viksit Bharat by empowering startups, think tanks, and free enterprise.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media platforms X and LinkedIn titled “My New Journey”, Kant expressed gratitude for the trust and opportunities given to him by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “After 45 years of dedicated government service, I have made the decision to embrace new opportunities and move forward in life,” he wrote. “I now look forward to contributing to India’s transformational journey towards Viksit Bharat by facilitating and supporting free enterprise, startups, think tanks, and academic institutions.”
Kant’s departure comes after leading India’s successful G20 presidency in 2023—a milestone that showcased India’s inclusive, people-driven diplomacy. Under his stewardship, meetings were held across all states and union territories, enhancing cooperative federalism, promoting local cultures, and boosting regional infrastructure. One of the presidency’s crowning achievements was the inclusion of the African Union in the G20, a move that amplified the voice of the Global South and reflected India’s commitment to global equity.
Before serving as G20 Sherpa, Kant played a pivotal role in shaping modern India through landmark positions such as CEO of NITI Aayog and Secretary of the Department for Industrial Policy and Promotion. At NITI Aayog, he led transformative initiatives including the Aspirational Districts Programme, which uplifted millions in India’s most underserved regions. He was also instrumental in laying the groundwork for India’s digital public infrastructure, spearheading reform-oriented policies like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, the Atal Innovation Mission, and the Green Hydrogen Mission.
Kant also leaves behind a legacy in industrial policy. As Secretary of the Department for Industrial Policy and Promotion, he championed the Ease of Doing Business, Make in India, and Startup India initiatives—cornerstones of India’s economic transformation.
His journey began in Kerala, where his early experiences shaped a lifelong commitment to grassroots development. Those formative years ultimately inspired the globally acclaimed Incredible India campaign—rooted in the belief that tourism has one of the highest multipliers for job creation and growth.
With his next chapter focused on building the next generation of enterprises, innovators, and thought leaders, Kant remains as driven as ever—now in service of realizing Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a developed, resilient, and forward-looking Viksit Bharat.
As India charts its future, Amitabh Kant’s new role may yet prove as transformative as his past.