Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog, announced he’s resigning from public office after a 45‑year career.
In a candid LinkedIn note, he said he’s stepping away to “embrace new opportunities” and lend his energy to free enterprise, startups, think tanks and academic institutions. The resignation was accepted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, Kant noted, entrusted him with carrying forward several development projects.
Long before making national headlines, Kant served in Kerala’s administration. As sub‑collector in Thalassery, he kick‑started local road upgrades and community events. Later, as district collector of Kozhikode (Calicut), he was behind the expansion of Calicut Airport, the restoration of Mananchira Maidan and the revival of Kozhikode beach—efforts that helped boost urban tourism and local pride.
Elevating Kerala’s appeal further, he became Tourism Secretary for the state. It was here he popularised the "God’s Own Country" branding and ushered in public‑private partnerships to improve infrastructure and fishermen’s livelihoods. These projects planted seeds that would later influence nationwide campaigns.
By the early 2000s, Kant had earned a reputation as a reliable fixer and strategist. After his Kerala stint, he joined central government roles—rising through tourism, industry and policy ranks.
His close working relationship with the Modi administration, particularly as DIPP secretary and later NITI Aayog CEO, earned him a reputation as one of the Prime Minister’s key bureaucratic allies. Many termed him a “sidekick of Modi’s”—someone who could translate political vision into action.
In July 2022, he was named India’s G20 Sherpa—a diplomatic post that became hugely visible during India’s 2023 G20 presidency. Kant oversaw over 220 meetings across India’s states and union territories and steered the negotiation of the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration, securing unanimous support amid global tensions.
His proudest achievement from that tenure? Bringing aboard the African Union as a permanent G20 member, reinforcing India’s push for a stronger Global South voice
During his stint at NITI Aayog, Kant was vocal about India’s need to shift gears—both in terms of sustainability and technology. Whether it was electric mobility, startup policy, or urban transformation, he remained a visible figure across panels and press briefings.
Kant didn’t flag any firm next move—but hinted he’ll channel his experience into entrepreneurship, policy and education. For someone who has shaped ideas inside government, the real question now—rumour has it—is whether he’ll shift from drafting policy to funding it.
