The Public Affairs Forum of India (PAFI) has announced its newly elected office bearers for the 2026-27 term, appointing Shivnath Thukral, vice president of public policy and government affairs at PhonePe Limited, as president.
Thukral succeeds Chetan Krishnaswamy, vice president, public policy, Amazon India, who completed his tenure as president. Alongside Thukral, Major Ranjeet Goswami (Retd.), global head, corporate affairs, Tata Consultancy Services Ltd (TCS), has been appointed vice president. Sandeep Aurora, group director and head of public policy and government affairs, Microsoft India & South Asia, takes over as secretary, while Rakesh Dubey, director - global government affairs, Carlyle Group, assumes the role of treasurer.
PAFI said its members currently lead public policy initiatives for more than 135 Indian and global companies, positioning the organisation as a key industry platform for dialogue between corporates, policymakers and civil society stakeholders. The forum said it remains focused on strengthening sectoral engagement, inclusion and capacity-building programmes across the public affairs ecosystem.
Thukral said, “I am honoured to take over as President of the Public Affairs Forum of India at a time when India’s role in the global economy is rapidly evolving. As we enter what we describe as ‘India 3.0’, there is a growing need for deeper collaboration between government, industry and society to navigate disruption, drive competitiveness, and support inclusive growth. With the continued support of our Members, Secretariat, and Leadership, I look forward to working together to make PAFI a stronger platform for impactful public affairs that shapes a better future for all.”
Krishnaswamy reflected on the organisation’s activities during his tenure, highlighting initiatives aimed at industry engagement and leadership development.
“It has been an honour to serve as President of PAFI over the past year. During this time, we have not only stayed on the course but also actively strengthened PAFI, steering it toward a brighter and stronger future. PAFI has several impactful platforms, including the PAFI Dialogues, Roundtables, Councils, Experiential Learning Series, the flagship Annual Forum, and Capacity Building initiatives. These efforts are helping shape the next generation of public affairs leaders, further reinforced by the launch of the new Leadership Conversations series. These achievements are a matter of immense pride, and I am confident that under its new leadership, PAFI will continue to build on these important initiatives. I look forward to supporting PAFI’s continued success and further strengthening its position as India’s leading and most respected voice for ethical and effective public affairs,” he said.
Founded in 2008, PAFI positions itself as an industry body focused on public affairs, policy advocacy and corporate affairs in India. The organisation represents both Indian and multinational companies and works towards fostering collaboration between business, government and society through dialogue, policy engagement and professional development initiatives.
PAFI also organises industry-focused forums and discussions, including its annual forum, which brings together policymakers, industry leaders and public affairs professionals to discuss regulatory developments, governance priorities and business policy issues.
The latest leadership transition comes at a time when public policy, regulatory engagement and stakeholder communications are becoming increasingly central to corporate reputation management and business strategy across sectors.
