Elite CIOs of India 2025: Architects of Digital Transformation

These leaders are redefining how enterprises harness technology. Through AI, cloud platforms, advanced analytics, automation, cybersecurity, and digital ecosystems, they translate complex challenges into opportunities, enabling organizations to innovate, scale, and remain agile.
Elite CIOs of India 2025: Architects of Digital Transformation
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30 min read

As India’s enterprises navigate an era defined by disruption, innovation, and exponential technological growth, the role of strategic technology leadership has never been more pivotal. Today, CIOs, CTOs, CISOs, and other senior technology leaders are not just managing IT—they are architects of transformation, shaping organizational strategy, driving innovation, and safeguarding resilience.

These leaders are redefining how enterprises harness technology. Through AI, cloud platforms, advanced analytics, automation, cybersecurity, and digital ecosystems, they translate complex challenges into opportunities, enabling organizations to innovate, scale, and remain agile. Technology under their guidance becomes a strategic enabler of growth, driving operational efficiency, enhancing customer experiences, and creating measurable business impact.

Beyond implementing solutions, the Elite CIOs of India 2025 excel in visionary leadership, people management, and cultural transformation. They cultivate high-performing teams, nurture collaboration across functions, and instill a mindset of continuous learning and innovation.

Their ability to integrate technology strategy with business priorities positions their organizations to navigate disruption confidently while building sustainable advantage. This collection celebrates the trailblazers who are shaping India’s digital economy, setting benchmarks for excellence in innovation, governance, and enterprise value creation. These leaders exemplify how modern technology functions—spanning infrastructure, security, applications, and strategy—can drive lasting impact, transform organizations, and define the future of business leadership in India.

(Note: This list is not a ranking. The leaders featured here are presented in random order)

Vijay Sethi, Chairman, MentorKart And Chairman, Crafsol Technologies

Vijay Sethi is a distinguished digital and sustainability leader with over 35 years of experience in technology, consulting, and manufacturing. He serves as Chairman and Chief Mentor of MentorKart, Chairman of Crafsol Technologies, and Chairman of SAP India User Group (INDUS), while also advising organizations on digital transformation, sustainability, and emerging technologies.

He has held senior leadership roles including CIO, CHRO, and Head of CSR at Hero MotoCorp, Director of Business Solutions at Ranbaxy, and Management Consultant at TCS. Vijay also contributes as a board member of the quantum computing firm BQP, sits on advisory boards of multiple NGOs, and serves as a jury member for leading national awards. A recognized digital visionary, he holds a B.Tech, M.Tech, MBA, and CISA, and has participated in advanced leadership programs at ISB, Harvard Business School, and IIM Ahmedabad, combining strategic insight with practical experience to drive innovation and impact.

Sujoy Brahmachari, CIO and CISO, Rosmerta Technologies Ltd

Sujoy Brahmachari is a seasoned technology and cybersecurity leader with over 30 years of experience delivering innovative IT and security solutions. As CIO and CISO of Rosmerta Technologies Ltd, he oversees enterprise IT strategy, data centre operations, and secure technology deployments across global setups.

Sujoy began his career as an IS Manager at PC Solutions, later contributing to organizations like Ranbaxy, Hero MotoCorp, and USE Group, driving operational excellence and technology-led growth. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Electronics and an Executive MBA, complemented by certifications including CISSP, CBCP, ITIL, DSCI Certified Privacy Professional, SAP Certified Basis Consultant, Strategic IT Management for CIOs, and Zero Trust Strategist. Recognized for his strategic insight and hands-on expertise, Sujoy blends technical mastery with leadership acumen, enabling secure, efficient, and scalable IT operations while aligning technology with business objectives.

Ravinder Arora, Global CISO & DPO, Infogain

Ravinder Arora is a seasoned cybersecurity leader with over two decades of experience in global information security and data protection. As Global CISO and DPO at Infogain, he leads enterprise-wide cybersecurity programs, data protection initiatives, and risk management strategies, ensuring resilient and compliant digital operations. Ravinder holds a Master’s in Computer Science from M.D. University and a Diploma in Cyber Law from the Asian School of Cyber Laws.

He has completed the Leadership Program in Strategic Management at IIM Kashipur and possesses multiple globally recognized certifications, including CCSK, CISM, CRISC, ISO 27001 Lead Auditor, ISO 22301 Lead Implementer, ITIL V3, CPISI, COBIT Foundation, NIST Framework, and MCSA Security. Known for his strategic foresight and technical expertise, Ravinder combines deep knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks with leadership excellence, guiding organizations in secure digital transformation and global compliance while strengthening resilience across complex technology landscapes.

Dr. Adnan Masood, Chief AI Architect, UST

Dr. Adnan Masood is Chief AI Architect at UST, where he leads large‑scale deployments of Generative and agentic AI systems, and Responsible AI across finance, healthcare, and retail. A Visiting Scholar at the Stanford AI Lab and a Microsoft Regional Director & AI MVP alumnus, he advises Fortune‑100 leaders on AI operating models, risk management, and value capture. He has authored several books and peer‑reviewed work on trustworthy AI and serves on industry working groups shaping AI governance.

Adnan frequently keynotes on GenAI safety, red‑teaming, and enterprise adoption, and teaches/guest‑lectures at leading universities. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science (AI) and an alumni of Harvard Business School’. His focus: turning AI into measurable outcomes—shorter cycle times, higher quality, lower cost—under rigorous guardrails and executive accountability.

Arun Goyal, CIO, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital

Arun Goyal, CIO of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, is an accomplished business leader with over 30 years of experience in the government and corporate sectors. With a deep expertise in ITES, healthcare, and digital health, Arun has successfully led organizations at the CXO level, focusing on integrating technology with operational processes to achieve accelerated growth.

His strategic approach has consistently driven both top-line and bottom-line improvements, leveraging transformational initiatives and re-engineering efforts. Arun excels at building strong collaborations, managing cross-functional teams, and engaging with top management and external stakeholders, including vendors and regulatory bodies. He is known for creating innovative strategies that enhance efficiency, improve patient care, and foster organizational excellence. His ability to combine technological advancements with people and processes makes him a transformative force in healthcare, steering the hospital’s digital transformation to new heights.

Meerah Rajavel, SVP & CIO, Palo Alto Networks

As Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Palo Alto Networks, Meerah Rajavel leads the company’s global information technology strategy, enabling innovation, scalability, and operational excellence across worldwide teams. She is responsible for driving transformative IT initiatives that support the organization’s mission to be the cybersecurity partner of choice for enterprises across the globe.

Before joining Palo Alto Networks in 2022, Meerah served as CIO at Citrix, and has held key leadership roles at McAfee, Forcepoint, Cisco, and Infosys. With deep insight into the evolving IT landscape, she brings a wealth of experience in aligning technology with business growth, security, and agility. Meerah holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering from Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Anna University, and a Master of Business Administration from the Leavey School of Business, Santa Clara University.

Prakash Kumar Ranjan, CISO & DPO, Sammaan Capital Ltd

Prakash Kumar Ranjan is a distinguished cybersecurity and IT governance leader with extensive experience in Information Security, IT Risk Assessment, Privacy, Operational Risk, Compliance, and Governance. Over his career, he has successfully implemented robust cybersecurity programs, led operational security functions, and effectively bridged IT, security, and business teams across diverse, multicultural environments. He has been recognized with multiple accolades, including NEXTCSO 2020, Super CISO Awards 2020, Top Cyber Warriors 2022, and Channel-Recommended Top CISO of India 2022, reflecting his leadership and strategic impact.

Prakash’s technical expertise includes SOC setup, incident management, vulnerability management, threat intelligence integration, endpoint security, and regulatory compliance, with hands-on proficiency in tools like Symantec, Trend Micro, Checkpoint, RSA Netwitness, IBM QRadar, Nessus, and BurpSuite. A certified ISO 27001 auditor and SWIFT payment security expert, he is also passionate about security awareness, having trained 500+ banking professionals and served as a guest speaker at IDRBT, promoting resilient and secure digital enterprises.

Shailendra Srivastav, Associate VP & Group Head IT, BN Group

Shailendra Srivastav is a versatile IT leader driving technology innovation and digital transformation at BN Group. With a rich career spanning Dabur International, PepsiCo, Unilever, Dipty Lal Judge Mal Pvt. Ltd., and Varroc, he combines strategic insight with hands-on expertise in IT infrastructure, cloud adoption, and enterprise automation. An accomplished professional, Shailendra holds an M.Sc. in Computer Science, M.Tech in IT, and multiple certifications including PMP, ITIL V3 Intermediate, and PDCA in Computer Applications.

His experience covers AI integration, Microsoft Azure Cloud, SAP Rise and SAP Grow deployments, and smart factory automation, enabling organizations to modernize processes and scale efficiently. Recognized for bridging technology with business objectives, Shailendra excels in implementing solutions that enhance operational efficiency, foster innovation, and support sustainable growth. His leadership ensures IT is not just a support function but a strategic driver of organizational excellence.

Reeny Sondhi, Chief Digital Officer, Twilio

Reeny Sondhi is the Chief Digital Officer at Twilio, with over 25 years of experience driving technology, AI, data, and security transformations across startups and Fortune 500 organizations. She is recognized for building and transforming IT and security functions, creating high-performing, cohesive teams that align technology initiatives with strategic business objectives.

At Twilio, Reeny leads enterprise technology strategy, modernizes platforms, drives AI adoption, and strengthens corporate and customer security, supporting growth and profitability objectives. She serves on the board of Rapid7, contributing her deep expertise in security operations and governance. Previously, she spearheaded Autodesk Security, consolidating product security, data protection, and resiliency functions, enabling the company’s transition to a cloud SaaS platform. At EMC, she scaled security across 150+ products, supporting revenue growth of over $13.5B.

Annie Mathew, CIO & VP-IT, Ashoka University

Annie Mathew brings over 30 years of extensive IT experience and a distinguished record in leading transformative technology initiatives across diverse organizations. Holding a B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from LIT, Nagpur University, and a PGDST from CDAC, Mumbai, she combines deep technical expertise with a strong understanding of business imperatives. Her leadership is defined by collaboration, building high-performing teams, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

Previously, Annie spent 18 years at Mother Dairy, where she established IT as a central service, consolidating hardware, software, and network operations, and spearheaded the first successful SAP implementation in the Indian dairy sector. At Ashoka University, she is driving the development of a comprehensive IT strategy, modernizing infrastructure, promoting digital adoption, ensuring robust cybersecurity, and creating a strong networking ecosystem.

Devinder Singh, Head - IT Infrastructure and SecOps, Policybazaar

Devinder Singh is a seasoned technology and cybersecurity leader with over two decades of experience driving large-scale digital transformation, cloud migrations, and enterprise security programs for global brands like Policybazaar, Sinch, Amazon, Toyota Financial Services, and ORIX.

Renowned for combining strategic IT vision with operational precision, Devinder has successfully led mission-critical infrastructure overhauls, AI-driven innovation programs, and zero-trust cybersecurity initiatives that balance performance, compliance, and cost optimization. His leadership style blends deep technical expertise, risk-based decision-making, and people-first mentoring—enabling teams to deliver secure, scalable, and future-ready solutions in today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Ajai Rai, CTO, Cyfuture

A visionary technology leader with over two decades of experience, Ajai Rai, Chief Technology Officer at Cyfuture, has been at the forefront of driving the company’s digital transformation and innovation strategy. He leads Cyfuture’s IT, Networking, and Development functions, overseeing end-to-end technology initiatives, product development, and infrastructure modernization. Ajai is recognized for his strong IT strategic leadership and ability to align technology with business objectives.

His expertise spans Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Automation, System Engineering, and IT Operations, backed by a deep understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle and enterprise-scale transformations. At Cyfuture, Ajai has played a pivotal role in strengthening the organization’s digital core, enhancing operational agility, and fostering a culture of continuous innovation. His leadership has enabled seamless service delivery across global markets and positioned Cyfuture as a trusted technology partner in the cloud and IT services domain.

Dr. Jagannath Sahoo, CISO, INOXGFL

Dr. Jagannath Sahoo is a seasoned cybersecurity leader with a strong foundation in engineering and a deep passion for building secure, scalable, and resilient digital systems. At INOXGFL, he leads strategic IT and cybersecurity initiatives that align technology with business goals through structured governance, risk management, and innovation-driven transformation. His expertise spans AI, cloud security, and regulatory compliance, ensuring business agility while maintaining operational stability.

A believer in continuous learning, Dr. Sahoo has introduced programs such as cyber range simulations, mentorship sessions, and Cyble Tales, promoting a culture of cybersecurity awareness and technical excellence. He actively collaborates with academic institutions, government organizations, and CDAC to strengthen the broader cybersecurity ecosystem. Guided by measurable KPIs—risk reduction, operational efficiency, compliance, and user adoption—Dr. Sahoo’s leadership continues to shape a secure and intelligent digital future.

Saloni Vijay, VP, CISO & Head-IT, VOIS (Vodafone Intelligent Solutions), Vodafone Group

Saloni Vijay is a seasoned IT and cybersecurity professional with 24 years of experience spanning Information Security, Risk Management, IT operations, Project Delivery, Solution Architecture, DevOps, Agile, and Digital Transformation. She currently serves as CISO and Head-IT at VOIS, Vodafone Group, where she leads all information security controls, drives technology initiatives, optimizes processes, and delivers innovative solutions aligned with organizational goals.

Previously, she held the role of Head – Risk Management & Security Assurance at Vodafone Idea Ltd., overseeing technology security across the organization. Saloni has a proven record in managing large-scale IT projects, cross-functional teams, and implementing advanced IT infrastructure and enterprise applications. Her expertise includes vendor management, budget optimization, agile strategy execution, and designing technology solutions that enhance operational efficiency, support business growth, and align with revenue-impacting business activities. She is committed to fostering continuous improvement, robust security, and a culture of innovation across IT operations.

Pankaj Gulati, VP-IT, Calibrated Healthcare

Pankaj Gulati serves as Vice President – IT at Calibrated Healthcare, overseeing the organization’s entire IT infrastructure, compliance, and operational effectiveness in India. He drives enterprise-wide IT governance, ensuring adherence to standards such as HiTrust, SOC1, SOC2, ISO 27001, and HIPAA, while leading risk assessment and mitigation initiatives.

Pankaj is responsible for IT planning aligned with business goals, policy design and implementation, IT helpdesk and resource management, procurement, asset management, vendor coordination, and training across all levels of operations. A Postgraduate in Systems (IT) from IMT Ghaziabad, Pankaj brings extensive technical and management expertise with certifications including ISO 27001 Lead Auditor, ITIL Foundation, MCSE, CCNA, and 35 PDUs in PMP. His blend of strategic vision, compliance acumen, and operational leadership enables Calibrated Healthcare to maintain secure, efficient, and scalable IT systems that support business growth and regulatory excellence.

Pravir Dahiya, CTO, Tata Teleservices Ltd.

Pravir Dahiya is currently the Chief Technology Officer at Tata Teleservices Ltd. (TTL), where he spearheads technology innovation and deployment to deliver business impact across geographies. He is a technology leader with over three decades of expertise in the enterprise and connectivity space.  Pravir has a strong background in both management and engineering. He has enabled the deployment of resilient fixed and mobile broadband networks at the lowest capital and operating expenses (CAPEX and OPEX) in his tenure across various brands.

Prior to TTL, he has held several senior leadership positions in leading technology companies, including Smartmatic, Ericsson, Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited, Tata Communications Transformation Services Limited (TCTS), Neotel, and Tata Communications Ltd. (formally VSNL). Pravir is an alumnus of Birla Institute of Technology (BIT-Mesra) with a BE in Electronics and Telecommunications.

Prasanna Gopalakrishnan, Chief AI Officer, ADP

Prasanna Gopalakrishnan is an accomplished technology and information systems leader with over 25 years of experience driving innovation and transformation across global organizations. As Chief AI Officer at ADP, she leads the development and deployment of advanced AI and machine learning solutions, helping the company harness data-driven insights to optimize business performance and enhance customer experiences.

Prior to ADP, Prasanna held executive roles at leading institutions including Bank of America, Boston Private, Harvard University, Fidelity Investments, Thomson Reuters, and State Street Bank, delivering technology strategy and solutions at scale. Her expertise spans Blockchain, AI/ML, Robotic Process Automation, Cloud Strategy, Mobile Platforms, API and Web Analytics, Data Monetization, E-commerce, POS systems, Business Intelligence, Cybersecurity, PCI compliance, CRM, and Workforce Management, along with Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, Lean, Kaizen, and ITIL methodologies. Prasanna holds an MBA from Northeastern University and a B.Sc. in Engineering from BITS, India, reflecting her strong technical and strategic foundation.

Shobhana Lele, CIO, The Bombay Dyeing and Manufacturing Company Limited

Shobhana Lele leads the IT function across all divisions of The Bombay Dyeing and Manufacturing Company Limited, including Retail, Realty, Polyester, and Corporate Shared Services. With over two decades of experience, Shobhana’s expertise encompasses IT strategy, team leadership, stakeholder engagement, vendor management, global service delivery, infrastructure management, SAP, BPM, BI, MDM, and Microsoft technologies. She has a proven record of aligning technology initiatives with business goals, optimizing processes, and delivering enterprise solutions that drive efficiency and support growth.

Under her leadership, the IT function ensures robust operational performance, seamless integration across divisions, and a culture of innovation. Shobhana continues to leverage her extensive experience to strengthen IT capabilities, enhance digital adoption, and deliver value-driven technology solutions across the organization.

Sachin Bali, Head IT & CISO, Azure Power

Sachin Bali serves as Head IT and Chief Information Security Officer at Azure Power, bringing over 26 years of rich experience in IT leadership, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. Prior to Azure Power, he contributed his expertise to organizations including Candico, ACTIA India Pvt. Ltd., and Towervision India Pvt. Ltd., shaping robust IT strategies and secure digital environments. A commerce graduate from Delhi University and MCA from Lovely Professional University, Sachin further enhanced his strategic outlook with a certification in Digital Strategy for CIOs from IIM Ahmedabad and a Master in Digital Transformation.

His diverse skill set spans IT operations, cybersecurity, cloud, and business transformation. He holds multiple certifications including CISM, CCSP, ISO 27001 Master, MCSE, MCP, MCTS, CCNA, ITIL V3, and SAP, reflecting his commitment to excellence and continuous learning. At Azure Power, Sachin leverages his cross-functional expertise to drive secure, scalable, and innovative technology solutions that empower business growth.

Sagar P.V., CTO, Mindsprint

Sagar P. V serves as the Chief Technology Officer and Global Head of Practices at Mindsprint, where he leads the company’s technology vision, innovation strategy, and capability transformation agenda. In this dual role, he is driving Mindsprint’s evolution into an AI-first, platform-led, and differentiated services organization. He oversees a broad portfolio of global practices, including Enterprise Applications, Digital Engineering, Customer Experience, Data & AI, Cloud & Infrastructure, and Automation.

Sagar also leads the development of strategic Centres of Excellence and the Product Development Group, with a strong focus on building industry-relevant solutions and scalable, AI-powered platforms. With over 25 years of industry experience, Sagar brings a unique combination of deep technical expertise and strategic leadership. In his previous roles at Accenture, Brillio, and Cognizant, he led large-scale digital transformations, built high-performing engineering teams, and scaled innovation across the Retail, Consumer Goods, Healthcare, Insurance and Travel sectors.

Ashish Kapoor, VP & CISO, Startek

Ashish Kapoor is Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at Startek, leading the company’s global Information Security, Cyber Security, Governance, Risk & Compliance, Data Privacy, and Business Continuity programs. With over 23 years of experience, he drives enterprise-wide security strategy across 12 geographies and 39 delivery locations, ensuring adherence to global standards including ITGC, SOX, SOC2, GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, HITRUST, ISO 27001, ISO 27701, and ISO 22301. Prior to Startek, Ashish served as Vice President at EXL, overseeing global Risk & Compliance, Audit Program Management, Security Operations, and Awareness initiatives.

He brings comprehensive expertise in Cyber Security and Data Privacy, including Governance, Policy & Process frameworks, Risk Management, Application Security, Incident Response, and SOC operations. Ashish holds a range of industry certifications including CISM, CISA, CRISC, CCSK, ISO LA, PMP, COBIT, ITIL, and CHFI, complementing his Management and Engineering education from premier institutions in India.

Jyothirlatha B, CTO, Godrej Capital

Jyothirlatha B is a technology leader specializing in digital transformation, strategy, and innovation within the banking and financial services sector. With extensive expertise in mobility, payments technology, and enterprise IT solutions, she drives initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, customer experience, and business growth. As CTO at Godrej Capital, Jyothirlatha leads the development and implementation of technology strategies that enable digital-first services, streamline payment systems, and support scalable, secure, and innovative financial solutions.

She is instrumental in guiding cross-functional teams to adopt cutting-edge technologies, optimize processes, and deliver high-impact results. Her work emphasizes aligning IT strategy with organizational objectives, fostering innovation, and ensuring seamless technology integration across platforms. Jyothirlatha’s leadership is characterized by a focus on transformative solutions, continuous improvement, and leveraging emerging technologies to strengthen Godrej Capital’s position in the competitive financial services landscape.

Aashish Kshetry, CIO & VP-IT, Asian Paints Limited

Aashish Kshetry is a veteran technology and business leader with over three decades of experience at Asian Paints, where he currently heads the Information Technology function and reports directly to the CEO. In his role, Aashish is driving digital innovation to transform the group from a traditional paints company into a comprehensive Décor products and services organization with a strong direct-to-consumer (D2C) focus.

Aashish began his career in IT, developing applications for Manufacturing and Logistics, and played a pivotal role in the company’s transition to packaged applications, ERP adoption, and advanced planning solutions. He subsequently moved into Manufacturing leadership, overseeing all plants in India and building large, highly automated facilities to support the growing operations. Aashish holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science Engineering and an MBA in Operations Management, reflecting his strong foundation in both technology and business strategy.

Dr. Sushil Kumar Meher, Head IT, AIIMS

Dr. Sushil Kumar Meher serves as Head of IT at AIIMS, responsible for managing the institute’s entire IT infrastructure, systems, and digital initiatives. With an academic foundation from the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, and a Master’s in Computer Applications with a specialization in Medical Informatics, he brings strong technical expertise combined with healthcare domain knowledge.

In his role, Dr. Meher oversees IT operations, infrastructure management, digital transformation projects, and the integration of technology into patient care, research, and academic processes. He ensures efficient, secure, and reliable IT systems that support AIIMS’s mission of excellence in healthcare and medical education. Dr. Meher’s work focuses on implementing innovative technology solutions, strengthening cybersecurity, and improving operational efficiency across the institute.

Praniti Lakhwara, CIO, Zscaler

Praniti Lakhwara is the Chief Information Officer at Zscaler, where she leads the company’s global information technology strategy, driving innovation, scalability, and operational excellence. She is responsible for delivering seamless IT solutions that enhance experiences for both customers and employees, while building a secure, robust, and future-ready technology infrastructure.

A results-oriented leader, Praniti has a proven track record of creating best-in-class, execution-focused IT teams that generate measurable business value through process optimization, automation, and innovative technology adoption. She excels at aligning IT strategy with organizational goals to drive growth, efficiency, and digital transformation. Prior to Zscaler, Praniti served as CIO at Conga, overseeing Infrastructure, Applications, Security, and Data Platforms, where she strengthened IT operations and led strategic initiatives to enhance business performance. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Arizona State University.

Pooja Chatrath, CIO, Oncquest Laboratories Ltd

Pooja Chatrath is an accomplished technology leader with over 20 years of experience driving digital transformation, AI innovation, and cybersecurity excellence in the healthcare and diagnostics sectors. As CIO of Oncquest Laboratories, she has delivered measurable business outcomes, including 30% cost savings, 40% efficiency gains, and enhanced patient satisfaction. Recognized as ETPrime’s 2022 Technology Leader of the Year and among IDC’s Top 100 INFOSEC Maestros, Pooja bridges technical expertise with strategic leadership.

She has spearheaded AI-driven automation, cloud-based LIMS migration, and digital ecosystem expansion to accelerate growth and operational excellence. A respected thought leader, Pooja has spoken at global forums on AI ethics, IoT compliance, and agile IT governance. She is also a patent contributor for a pioneering Lab Information System in stem cell banking and an advocate for secure, patient-centric, and innovation-led healthcare transformation.

Fabio Fratucello, Field CTO World Wide, CrowdStrike

Fabio is a technology and security executive with over 25 years of international experience spanning private enterprises and large multinationals, across leadership, technical, and advisory roles. Fabio currently serves as Vice President and Field Chief Technology Officer, World Wide at CrowdStrike. In this global role, he leads the Field CTO function and a team of Technology Strategists across all markets, driving strategic direction, accelerating growth, and shaping technology innovation and partnerships.

Fabio was promoted to this position after serving as Field CTO for International and, prior to that, Chief Technology Officer for APJ, where he developed and executed regional technology strategies and supported customers in aligning cyber defence programs with their risk posture and business goals. Before joining CrowdStrike, Fabio had a long-standing career in financial services, holding leadership roles at Insurance Australia Group, HP Australia, Westpac Banking Corporation, UBS Group, and Banca Intesa Sanpaolo in both Australia and Italy.

Amit Pradhan, VP-IT & CIO, Dixon Technologies India

Amit Pradhan is the Vice President – IT and Chief Information Officer at Dixon Technologies India, bringing 20 years of experience across diverse industries. Over the past decade, he has focused on driving innovation, digital transformation, process optimization, product quality, company culture, and enhancing customer experience. At Dixon Technologies, Amit leads IT and digital initiatives, implementing scalable technology solutions that streamline operations, improve efficiency, and support business growth. His expertise spans IT strategy, digital transformation, technology-driven process improvements, and enterprise-wide innovation, making him a key driver of the company’s technological roadmap.

Amit holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Digital and IT from the Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow. His leadership combines strategic foresight with hands-on execution, enabling Dixon Technologies to leverage cutting-edge technology solutions to enhance operational excellence, foster innovation, and deliver a superior customer experience across the organization.

Anand Aggarwal, Group CTO, The Times Group

Anand Aggarwal is the Group Chief Technology Officer at The Times Group, bringing extensive experience in IT and security functions across BFSI, BPO, Retail, and Telecom sectors. He has led the implementation of advanced cloud cybersecurity solutions, including DLP, WAF, endpoint protection, email security, vulnerability assessment, and penetration testing. Anand has driven IT security policy creation, audits, and certifications for ISO 27001, ISO 22301 (BCP), and ISAE 3402.

A digital strategist, he has spearheaded digital transformation initiatives in field force automation, customer servicing, and onboarding processes, significantly reducing operational timelines and enhancing efficiency. Anand also mentors start-up founders in cybersecurity, BFSI, and digital solutions, and is an alumnus of IIM Calcutta’s Advanced Global Leadership program.

Kopal Sarin Raj, VP-IT & CIO, Wabtec Corporation

Kopal Sarin Raj is a performance-driven IT leader with extensive experience in driving business transformation through technology, specializing in aligning IT strategy with organizational objectives. She leads technology-enabled change across systems, processes, and teams to deliver measurable business impact. Her expertise spans IT strategy development, roadmap execution, and implementing solutions across business processes and horizontal functions in domains including Manufacturing, Engineering, Telecom, and Turnkey Projects.

She has successfully managed IT infrastructure, applications, service delivery, ERP and CRM implementations, and MIS systems, ensuring operational excellence. A PMP-certified professional, Kopal has implemented ISO 27001 for information security and ensures ITIL-compliant service delivery processes. Leveraging frameworks like the Tata Business Excellence Model and Six Sigma, she drives efficiency and innovation. Her specialties include IT strategic planning, program management, vendor management, team building, and change management, making her a transformative and visionary IT leader.

Munender Soperna, Group CDIO, Dr Lal PathLabs

Munender Soperna is an accomplished and results-driven technology executive with over 22 years of experience leading business and IT operations across Healthcare-Pathology, Auto Ancillary, Power, and Consulting sectors. As the Group Chief Digital & Information Officer at Dr. Lal PathLabs, he plays a pivotal role in driving digital transformation, optimizing enterprise systems, and aligning technology initiatives with strategic business goals to enhance operational excellence and patient experience.

A hands-on technologist with deep expertise in Microsoft technologies, Munender is known for his ability to translate vision into actionable outcomes through effective leadership of development and implementation teams. His extensive experience spans large-scale, business-critical projects encompassing ERP implementation, project management, and business process re-engineering (BPR), consistently focused on improving customer satisfaction, reducing costs, and mitigating risk.

Avinash Naik, President and CIO, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance

Avinash Naik is President and Chief Information Officer at Bajaj Allianz General Insurance. In his current role, he is responsible for driving technology strategy, strengthening digital capabilities and bringing in new technology innovations to the organisation. Avinash comes with rich experience in running large Technology Operations, Digital Transformation and Innovation Programs across multiple geographies.

He has spent over a decade at Infosys Limited, where he played multiple roles including Delivery Head, Client Partner, Program Manager, Enterprise Architect etc. for Fortune 100 companies. Before joining Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, he was part of the Group Corporate Strategy team at Bajaj Finserv where he was responsible for driving the Digital and Innovation agenda across Group companies. Avinash holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree from VJTI, Mumbai.

Babu Rao P, CIO, Paisabazaar Marketing and Consulting Pvt. Ltd

A visionary technology leader with over two decades of experience, Babu Rao has been instrumental in shaping secure, scalable, and innovation-driven IT ecosystems in the financial services domain. At Paisabazaar, he spearheads IT infrastructure and security compliance, ensuring robust governance frameworks that align technology strategy with business growth and regulatory excellence. Babu’s career spans impactful tenures at Athena BPO Pvt. Ltd., where he spent 13 years as IT Manager, and Radical Minds Technologies Pvt. Ltd., before joining Paisabazaar.

His expertise encompasses IT governance, cybersecurity, PCI DSS 3.2.1, and ISO 27001 compliance, along with deep proficiency in cloud and on-premises infrastructure management. An MCA and BCA graduate from Mangalore Institute of Technological Science (MITS) and a certified ISO 27001:2022 Lead Auditor, Babu is recognized for his strategic foresight, operational discipline, and commitment to advancing digital trust and organizational resilience.

Neeti Wahi, Chief Digital and Information Technology Officer, Indus Tower

Neeti Wahi is an accomplished digital and technology leader with over 22 years of experience driving transformation across the BFSI and energy sectors. As Chief Digital and Information Technology Officer at Indus Tower, she spearheads the organization’s digital strategy, focusing on technology-led innovation, operational efficiency, and business agility. Renowned for her strategic vision, Neeti has led multiple large-scale modernization initiatives, guiding cross-functional teams in adopting emerging technologies that strengthen business performance and resilience.

Her expertise encompasses digital transformation, IT modernization, enterprise architecture, and change management. A strong advocate of technology as a business enabler, Neeti excels at aligning digital initiatives with strategic objectives, optimizing resources, and fostering a culture of innovation. Her leadership continues to shape Indus Tower’s digital evolution, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence and sustainable growth in a rapidly changing technology landscape.

Saravanan Muthian, CIO, Zoho

Saravanan Muthian is a seasoned executive with over two decades of tenure at Zoho Corporation, where he currently serves as Chief Information Officer. His journey to the role is notable for both its depth and transformation: originally trained as a structural engineer and lecturer, Saravanan transitioned into the IT industry under changing circumstances—and has since embraced an evolving leadership trajectory at Zoho.

Throughout his career, he has been deeply involved in the architecture and implementation of Zoho’s internal systems, product platforms, and enterprise solutions. His leadership combines strong technical insight with a pragmatic understanding of business operations—enabling Zoho to maintain agility, scalability, and resilience as it expands across international markets.

Ravi Pichan, CIO, RBL Bank

Ravi Pichan is the Chief Information Officer & Head - Digital Banking at RBL Bank. Ravi is a Global Business & Technology professional with over 28 years of experience in the Banking, Financial Services & Insurance (BFSI) industry. In his current role at RBL Bank, Ravi is responsible for spearheading digital transformation; implementing agile and cost-effective solutions to improve operational efficiency, enabling process automation and simplification of manual operations across the Bank, creating a technology innovation hub to drive a culture of continuous innovation across the Bank.

Prior to joining RBL Bank, Ravi was the Chief Information & Technology Officer at HDFC Life, he has also worked in leadership roles at organisations including Larsen & Toubro Infotech, Capgemini, Barclays, & Bank of America. Ravi is a Bachelor of Engineering (Computer Science) from Mumbai University and is a certified Six Sigma Green Belt professional.

Kapil Madaan, CISO & DPO, Max Healthcare

Kapil Madaan, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) & Data Protection Officer (DPO), Max Healthcare Kapil Madaan is a seasoned cybersecurity and digital trust leader with over two decades of diverse experience across India, the USA, and Europe. As CISO & DPO at Max Healthcare, he spearheads the organization’s cybersecurity, information governance, and data protection strategies, ensuring robust compliance, business continuity, and trust-driven digital transformation in one of India’s leading healthcare networks.

A certified and dynamic technocrat, Kapil has built a distinguished career spanning industries such as Healthcare, BFSI, Telecommunications, Manufacturing, Automotive, and IT Services. His leadership philosophy centers on Digital Trust—the foundation of all secure and ethical digital interactions. Under his guidance, security is not just a function of protection but a strategic enabler of business resilience and growth.

Rucha Nanavati, Chief Digital Transformation Officer, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited

Rucha Nanavati is the Chief Digital Transformation Officer at Mahindra & Mahindra Limited, where she leads the Group’s digital innovation and technology strategy across diverse business verticals. A global technology leader with extensive experience in high-tech, retail, and manufacturing sectors, Rucha has successfully driven large-scale digital transformation initiatives that enable business growth and operational excellence. She is passionate about fostering innovation, nurturing engineering talent, and building high-performing cross-functional teams that deliver impactful, technology-driven outcomes.

Her career spans leadership roles at Albertsons Companies and Motorola, and consulting engagements at Zensar and PricewaterhouseCoopers across India, the UK, and the US. Rucha holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics Engineering and an M.S. in Computer Science, along with executive certifications from Carnegie Mellon University and Harvard Business School, reinforcing her commitment to continuous learning and leadership excellence.

Harnath Babu, CIO, KPMG India

Harnath Babu is a prominent technology and business leader with over 22 years of experience, currently serving as Partner and Chief Information Officer at KPMG in India. He is known for his strategic vision, innovation mindset, and commitment to leveraging emerging technologies to drive meaningful business outcomes. At KPMG in India, Harnath leads the firm’s digital transformation agenda, overseeing technology strategy, operations, and innovation.

Under his leadership, the firm has implemented large-scale technology modernisation initiatives that have elevated service delivery, improved operational agility, and empowered professionals with future-ready tools. He has championed the use of advanced technologies including artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cloud computing, to enable smarter decision-making and unlock enterprise-wide value. Before joining KPMG in India, Harnath held senior leadership roles in the financial services industry, where he launched digital-first ventures and led core transformation programs for legacy institutions.

Sachin Panicker, Chief AI Officer, Fulcrum Digital

Sachin Panicker is the Chief AI Officer at Fulcrum Digital Inc.  A visionary technologist, industry influencer, and pioneer in AI-led transformation. With over two decades of experience architecting and scaling enterprise software, Sachin has built transformative AI platforms used by millions worldwide. A true technology soothsayer, he foresaw the emergence of large-scale language models well before they became mainstream and was among the earliest innovators to build natural language to UI converters and automated testing frameworks.

His current research explores the intersection of Generative AI and Blockchain, focusing on cognitive architecture for autonomous AI systems that learn like humans, paving the way toward true AGI. As an adviser to startups and global enterprises alike, Sachin mentor's organizations in AI adoption and advocate democratized access to technology. Bridging deep technical innovation with strategic business impact, he is decoding tomorrow’s intelligence and engineering the next chapter of human-AI symbiosis.

Rajesh Garg, President & Group CIO, Yotta Data Services

Rajesh Garg is a seasoned digital transformation leader with 31 years of experience driving technology innovation and strategic growth. At Yotta Data Services, he oversees applications, cybersecurity, and CISO functions, steering enterprise modernization, ERP growth, and secure, scalable digital initiatives. Throughout his career, Rajesh has contributed to organizations such as Trident Group, Rolta India, Nucleus Software, Infogain India, and Interra IT, shaping IT strategy, governance, service delivery, and enterprise architecture across diverse sectors.

A lifelong learner, he holds a B.Tech (Hons.) from NIT Kurukshetra, advanced leadership credentials from ISB, and certifications in digital strategy and cybersecurity. He is also an active member of the Foundation of Data Protection Professionals in India (FDPPI). Rajesh is recognized for combining strategic foresight, operational excellence, and innovative thinking, enabling businesses to leverage technology for sustainable growth and competitive advantage.

Akansha Garg, Chief Data Protection Officer, HDFC Securities 

Akansha Garg is a dynamic technology leader with over 24 years of experience in the BFSI sector, specializing in agile digital transformation, product innovation, and data-driven strategy. She has led large-scale initiatives in algorithmic trading, AI, NLP, and ML, driving intelligent automation and advanced analytics to optimize operations and enhance customer experience. As Chief Data Protection Officer at HDFC Securities, Akansha plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s data governance, privacy, and compliance framework.

She is recognized for her ability to lead cross-functional teams, foster innovation, and create customer-centric digital solutions that deliver measurable business impact. A leading voice in data privacy and regulatory technology, Akansha is committed to responsible data stewardship, encryption excellence, and aligning digital transformation with trust and transparency. Her vision combines technology and ethics to ensure sustainable growth in an increasingly digital financial ecosystem.

Dr. Rajendra Kumar, CTO, RAH Infotech

Dr. Rajendra Kumar is the Chief Technology Officer at RAH Infotech, bringing over 25 years of extensive experience in technology leadership, solution architecture, and IT strategy. He has developed deep expertise across presales, cloud computing, data center hosting, managed services, and NOC & SOC operations, with a proven track record of delivering large-scale enterprise solutions.

Prior to RAH Infotech, Dr. Kumar held senior leadership roles at CtrlS Datacenters, Bharti Airtel, Apalya, Handygo, and served in the Indian Air Force. His career spans strategic IT planning, compliance, service delivery, project management, and technological innovation, making him a versatile and impactful leader. At RAH Infotech, Dr. Kumar drives the company’s technology roadmap, strengthens its solution architecture framework, and implements innovative IT strategies that enhance operational efficiency and support enterprise clients’ evolving technology needs.

Debashis Singh, CIO, Persistent Systems

Debashis Singh (Deb) is Chief Information Officer responsible for the strategy and operations of Persistent’s enterprise information systems and technology infrastructure to enable the transformation and growth of Persistent. An industry thought leader with over 29 years of IT experience, Deb specializes in driving digital transformation and cloud adoption for improved employee experience and operational efficiency across the enterprise. Deb has been recognized with multiple coveted awards and recognitions by different industry forums where he is a regular speaker sharing his knowledge and experience with peers.

Deb has led many successful, high performing teams across geographies to drive complex and rapid growth initiatives. Prior to joining Persistent, Deb served as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Mphasis. Deb holds a bachelor's degree in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering from Utkal University and Global CIO program from  the Indian School of Business.

J.P. Dwivedi, CIO, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute

J.P. Dwivedi is a senior IT leader with over 30 years of global experience spanning India, the UK, USA, and Singapore. As CIO at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, he is responsible for defining and implementing the institute’s IT strategy, with a focus on deploying VistA as the primary Electronic Health Record (EHR) system and PARAS for non-clinical operations, ensuring seamless integration across platforms.

Throughout his career, J.P. has successfully delivered eight large-scale software application development projects, each averaging 7,000 person-days, across varied technology platforms and industries including Healthcare, Finance, Investment Banking, HR, Hospitality, Car Rental, Energy, Retail, Telecom Manufacturing, and Railways. Recognized for his ability to lead large, cross-functional teams, J.P. specializes in managing fixed-price, complex projects, programs, and IT service portfolios, consistently aligning technology initiatives with organizational objectives to drive efficiency, innovation, and operational excellence.

Anuprita Daga, Group CISO, Angel One

Anuprita Daga is a seasoned cybersecurity and risk management leader with over 25 years of experience in the banking and financial services industry. As Group Chief Information Security Officer at Angel One, she drives enterprise-wide strategies in information security, data privacy, and regulatory compliance, ensuring the protection of critical customer and organizational assets. Throughout her career, Anuprita has spearheaded large-scale security transformations, established comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks, and led initiatives to strengthen governance, risk quantification, and compliance with global standards.

Her expertise spans operations management, team leadership, pre-sales, and MIS, combining strategic insight with hands-on execution. A strong advocate for building resilient, secure, and data-driven organizations, Anuprita focuses on advancing Angel One’s cybersecurity posture through continuous innovation, awareness, and robust policy implementation—reinforcing trust and digital confidence across all business functions.

Sameer Ratolikar, CISO, HDFC Bank

With over 22 years of distinguished experience in IT and Cybersecurity, Sameer Ratolikar stands among India’s most respected information security leaders. As Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at HDFC Bank, he has been instrumental in building one of the most advanced, resilient, and technology-driven cybersecurity ecosystems in the Indian banking sector.

A thought leader and strategist, Sameer brings deep expertise across enterprise security, risk governance, privacy, and compliance. His leadership has shaped the bank’s journey toward achieving critical security certifications including ISO 27001, PCI-DSS, and BS25999 — pioneering benchmarks within the Indian financial industry. Previously, Sameer held key leadership roles as CISO at Axis Bank and as CTO & CISO at Bank of India. Earlier in his career, he served as Principal Systems Analyst (Security & Networks) with the Ministry of IT, on deputation to the Government of Gujarat, where he played a vital role in advancing secure digital governance frameworks.

Rajat Yadav, CIO & Head - IT, JCB India

Rajat Yadav is a seasoned global IT leader with extensive experience in developing and executing IT strategies across large enterprises. As CIO & Head – IT at JCB India, he drives application and digital transformation initiatives while ensuring IT aligns seamlessly with business objectives. Rajat has successfully led complex programs, shared services, and delivery verticals, consistently delivering optimal value through effective planning, analysis, and execution.

He has managed major outsourcing contracts, implemented performance-driven cultures, and built high-performing teams motivated to achieve excellence. Rajat is an advocate for change management, translating IT needs into actionable solutions for stakeholders and end-users, while driving adoption and training programs. Prior to JCB, he served as Head of Information Technology (CIO) – India at CNH Industrial, leading enterprise IT strategy, vendor management, cost optimization, and global delivery initiatives.

Ben Young, Field CTO, APJ, Veeam

Ben Young, Field CTO, APJ at Veeam, was born in New Zealand and is a high school graduate who has built deep expertise through hands-on experience, continuous professional development, and real-world business application. Beginning his career as an Analyst with a major multinational agricultural organization, he developed web and CRM strategies before moving into leadership roles that combined strategic clarity with innovation. Known for his ability to see the big picture and cut through complexity, Ben helps teams navigate challenges and identify breakthrough opportunities.

He is currently expanding his expertise in Asia-Pacific markets, focusing on understanding regulatory frameworks across jurisdictions to deliver comprehensive solutions. Inspired by visionary leaders who merge technology innovation with human-centered solutions, Ben applies the same approach in his work. Outside of work, he is an avid off-road and endurance cyclist, finding joy in challenging trails and exploring mountain ranges on two wheels.

Jijy Oommen, CTO, Aavas Financiers

Jijy Oommen is an acclaimed technology leader in the Financial Services and Fintech space having over two decades of experience in building, managing and transforming robust and scalable technology architectures, business systems, digital assets, operational frameworks and high performing teams. She is M.Tech in Computer Science and MBA in Information Systems. Jijy is an alumnus of Birla Institute of Technology & Science and has been trained and certified in Advanced Project Management from IIM Kozhikode and Project Management Institute – USA.

She is also trained in Strategic Management by IIM Bangalore, Cyber Security by Data Security Counsel of India and Fintech by Warton Business School. She has spent majority of her career in retail financial services institutions and made notable contributions in Digital Transformations, building systems for Service Delivery and Customer Experience, implementing Enterprise Applications, Technology Infrastructure & Cloud Transformations, IT Security, Data & Analytical Platforms, Hyper automations and IT Governance & Operations.

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