Amitabh Kant resigns as India’s G20 Sherpa: 45 years of service ends, new startup focus

Amitabh Kant, who recently stepped down as India 27s G20 Sherpa, concluded a distinguished 45-year career in government service marked by transformative initiatives and global leadership.

As the longest-serving CEO of NITI Aayog from 2016 to 2022, Kant spearheaded key programs like the Aspirational Districts Programme, which "transformed lives of common citizens in 115 of India's most underdeveloped districts." He also championed flagship initiatives such as Ease of Doing Business, Make in India, Startup India, and Incredible India.

Appointed as India 27s G20 Sherpa in July 2022, succeeding Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, Kant played a pivotal role during India 27s 2023 G20 presidency. Reflecting on this period, he described it as "a significant milestone in my career," highlighting the achievement of "unanimous consensus on the New Delhi Leaders 27 Declaration" despite complex global challenges.

"We also successfully ensured the inclusion of the African Union in the G20, fulfilling India 27s commitment to global equity and the voice of the Global South," he added, underscoring India 27s leadership in promoting global inclusivity.

Following his resignation, Kant announced plans to engage with startups, think tanks, and academic institutions in a personal capacity, aiming to "support free enterprise, startups and think tanks."

His career reflects a blend of domestic development focus and international diplomacy, leaving a lasting impact on India 27s policy landscape and global standing.

Amitabh Kant, India’s longest-serving NITI Aayog CEO and G20 Sherpa since 2022, has resigned after a 45-year government career. He led India’s 2023 G20 presidency, achieving consensus on the New Delhi Declaration and inclusion of the African Union, and now plans to support startups and think tanks.