Digital News Guru Lifestyle Desk:
Amitabh Kant’s resignation
In a heartfelt announcement on June 16, Amitabh Kant, the veteran civil servant who served as both the CEO of NITI Aayog and India’s G20 Sherpa, tendered his resignation—bringing to an end a distinguished 45-year career in public service.
From Grassroots Reformer to Global Diplomat
Roots in Kerala
A 1980-batch IAS officer from the Kerala cadre, Kant’s early postings were steeped in grassroots transformation. As District Collector of Kozhikode, he spearheaded projects such as the expansion of Calicut Airport, restoration of public spaces like Mananchira Maidan, and support for local communities—including the launch of the “God’s Own Country” tourism campaign.
Leading NITI Aayog from 2016–2022
Appointed as the second CEO of NITI Aayog in 2016, Kant served over six years, becoming its longest-serving leader. Under his stewardship, breakthrough programs such as the Aspirational Districts Programme (boosting development in 112 of India’s most underdeveloped districts), Atal Innovation Mission, Green Hydrogen Mission, Advanced Chemistry Cells initiative, and digital public infrastructure were launched. He championed flagship reforms like Make in India, Startup India, Ease of Doing Business, and the Incredible India tourism drive.
Sherpa on the Global Stage: G20 Presidency 2023
In July 2022, India named Kant its G20 Sherpa—its chief negotiator and personal envoy to summit-level discussions. Serving for three years, he played a central role in India’s 2023 G20 Presidency. Under his guidance, India hosted a robust, inclusive summit that culminated in the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration, achieving unanimous consensus amid global tensions. A landmark achievement was bringing the African Union into the G20, underscoring India’s push for equitable, Global South representation. Kant said:
“Leading India’s G20 Presidency in 2023 was a significant milestone… We also successfully ensured the inclusion of the African Union in the G20, fulfilling India’s commitment to global equity and the voice of the Global South.”
Farewell with Gratitude & Bold New Horizons
In shared posts across X and LinkedIn, Kant reflected on his journey:
- He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as well as ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, S. Jaishankar, and P.K. Mishra, for their guidance and trust.
- He affirmed his intention to step into a new chapter—engaging with startups, think tanks, academic institutions, and facilitating free enterprise to help drive the vision of Viksit Bhara.
“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,” he wrote.
A Visionary Legacy: What Kant Leaves Behind
| Initiative | Impact |
| Aspiration Districts | Accelerated poverty reduction and human development in 112 backward districts |
| Tech & Innovation | Digital public infrastructure; Green Hydrogen and Advanced Chemistry Cells missions |
| Economic Reforms | Pushed global business rankings; championed Make in India, Startup India |
| Diplomacy | Successfully steered New Delhi G20 with African voices included |
These efforts underscore Kant’s signature approach—blending bottom-up developmental agendas with macro-level strategic diplomacy.
Future Prospects: A New Captain of Private Innovation?
Early signals suggest Kant will soon join boards or advisory panels in the private sector, higher education institutes, or global think tanks. His experience navigating complex governmental systems and global negotiations makes him a sought-after leader to catalyze India’s evolving innovation ecosystem.
In The Words of Amitabh Kant
In his final message:
“After 45 years of dedicated service to the Government, I have decided to embrace new opportunities and begin a new chapter. I am deeply grateful to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for accepting my resignation as India’s G20 Sherpa and for the trust he placed in me to drive developmental initiatives that shaped India’s growth trajectory.”
This ethos—of humility, persistence, and vision—has defined Kant’s public persona. As he transitions from policymaker to ecosystem enabler, his imprint on India’s evolution remains indelible.
What Lies Ahead?
With Kant stepping aside, the government faces pivotal decisions on his successor. Who will steer India through the crucial phase following its G20 presidency? Who will carry forward digital infrastructure reforms and innovation missions? These questions are central as the next guard steps in.
Conclusion
Amitabh Kant’s departure marks the close of a transformative era in Indian public administration. From local development in Kerala to global diplomacy at the G20, his career reflects an enduring belief: that integrated policy, innovation, and inclusive growth can drive a nation forward. As India progresses towards its vision of Viksit Bharat, the influence of his work will be felt for decades.
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