Amitabh Kant, former G20 Sherpa of India and ex-CEO of NITI Aayog, has been appointed as a Senior Adviser at Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. This move is strategic to support Fairfax’s long-term investments in India, in line with the nation’s ambitious Viksit Bharat 2047 goals.
Key Details
Why in News?
- Amitabh Kant transitions from India’s G20 Sherpa after a successful G20 Presidency in 2023.
- Appointed as Senior Adviser at Fairfax on June 27, 2025, showcasing the firm’s interest in India’s development and policy innovation.
About Amitabh Kant
- Former G20 Sherpa of India (2022–2025) and CEO of NITI Aayog (2016–2022).
- Known for leading initiatives like the Aspirational Districts Programme and key campaigns such as Startup India, Make in India, and Digital India.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings
- Headquartered in Canada and led by Prem Watsa, known as the “Warren Buffett of Canada.“
- Operates in property & casualty insurance, reinsurance, and investment management.
- Major Indian investments include Go Digit General Insurance and Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru.
Fairfax’s India Focus
- Views India as a long-term growth story with a goal to transition to a $30 trillion economy by 2047.
- Aligned with India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, focusing on urbanization, digital infrastructure, sustainability, and private enterprise.
Significance of the Appointment
- Kant brings government and policy experience, aligning with Fairfax’s values of integrity and inclusive growth.
- Expected to bridge government policy with private sector investment, leveraging development expertise.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Amitabh Kant appointed as Senior Adviser at Fairfax Financial Holdings after his role as India’s G20 Sherpa.
- Fairfax aims to strengthen its India investment strategy in line with Viksit Bharat 2047 goals.
- Fairfax has significant investments in India, including Digit Insurance and Bengaluru Airport.
- Kant known for his leadership in key initiatives like Startup India and Make in India.
