Amitabh Kant Eyes New Role After Stepping Down As G20 Sherpa

After an illustrious career spanning nearly five decades, Amitabh Kant has officially stepped down as India’s G20 Sherpa, marking the end of a remarkable journey in public service. In a heartfelt announcement on social media, Kant expressed deep gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose as he transitions into a new chapter of life, one focused on empowering India’s future.

“After 45 years of dedicated government service, I have decided to embrace new opportunities and move forward in life,” he wrote. “I am incredibly thankful to the Prime Minister for accepting my resignation as G20 Sherpa and for having entrusted me with the responsibility of driving key developmental initiatives for India’s progress.”

Kant's exit signals more than just a retirement—it’s a conscious pivot towards supporting the nation’s next phase of transformation. He shared that his future contributions will center on facilitating India’s journey toward Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by supporting free enterprise, startups, think tanks, and academic institutions.

A Legacy of Transformation

A 1980-batch IAS officer from the Kerala cadre, Kant has been a pivotal figure in shaping India’s modern development landscape. From grassroots campaigns in Kerala to leading the country’s G20 Presidency in 2023, his career has been defined by innovation, inclusivity, and impactful governance.

Before taking on the role of G20 Sherpa, Kant served as the CEO of NITI Aayog from 2016 to 2022, spearheading several flagship initiatives that aimed to accelerate India’s growth in a sustainable and inclusive manner.

In fact, his appointment as G20 Sherpa by the Centre in 2022 came shortly after his retirement from NITI Aayog. He succeeded Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal in the role. The timing was crucial—India was preparing to take over the G20 Presidency from December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023, culminating in the country hosting its first-ever G20 Summit in 2023. The G20, a key forum of the world’s largest industrialised and emerging economies, plays a vital role in shaping global economic policy and fostering international cooperation. Kant’s appointment reflected the government’s trust in his diplomatic skillset and policy experience.

As CEO of NITI Aayog, Kant steered transformative programs including the Aspirational Districts Programme, the Atal Innovation Mission, and the National Multidimensional Poverty Index. Under his leadership, India also made significant strides in digital public infrastructure, climate action through the Green Hydrogen Mission, and advanced policy frameworks in emerging technologies.

Earlier, as Secretary of the Department for Industrial Policy and Promotion, Kant played a key role in landmark initiatives like Ease of Doing Business, Make in India, and Startup India. These reforms significantly boosted India's global competitiveness, helping the nation leap 79 places in the World Bank’s ease of doing business rankings.

Driving India’s Global Presence

Kant’s role as India’s G20 Sherpa was both challenging and historic. During India’s presidency, he led negotiations that culminated in the unanimously adopted New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration—an achievement amid turbulent global conditions. Under his stewardship, India also successfully championed the inclusion of the African Union in the G20, reinforcing the country’s commitment to global equity and the voice of the Global South.

Reflecting on the presidency, Kant noted, “Our G20 leadership was inclusive and people-centric, with meetings held across all states and union territories—celebrating our diversity, strengthening cooperative federalism, and enhancing local infrastructure.”

A Journey Rooted in Ground Realities

Kant’s foundation in public service was laid in Kerala, where he spearheaded tourism campaigns like “God’s Own Country” and led civic revitalization efforts in cities like Calicut. Later, at the Ministry of Tourism, he was instrumental in launching the globally acclaimed “Incredible India” campaign—an initiative that, he believes, had the highest multiplier effect on jobs and economic growth.

In a reflective LinkedIn post titled “My New Journey”, Kant paid tribute to mentors, colleagues, and leaders who guided him along the way. “To my Ministers—Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman & Dr. S. Jaishankar—and the Principal Secretary to PM Shri P.K. Mishra, I am grateful for your unwavering support,” he wrote.

He also shared a poignant collage of memories—moments with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, global dignitaries, and highlights from his G20 tenure—serving as a visual farewell to a career defined by impact.

Looking Ahead

Even as he steps away from formal government roles, Amitabh Kant’s commitment to nation-building remains resolute. “India has always been, and will always be, Incredible,” he signed off. “Humbled to have played a small role. Thank you for being part of this journey.

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