Vikram Kasbekar appointed CII GreenCo Chairman

Hyderabad, Sep 24: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) announced a leadership transition at its GreenCo Council, with Vikram Kasbekar taking over as Chairman, succeeding Pradeep Bhargava, who has led the Council since 2011.

A statement said that under Bhargava’s decade-long stewardship, GreenCo grew into a pioneering industry-led sustainability framework, covering over 1,500 companies and more than 1,000 rated plants across 27 sectors. The Council’s initiatives have generated over Rs 5,136 crore in cost savings, reduced carbon emissions, and promoted resource conservation and water management. GreenCo’s rating system has become a benchmark in voluntary sustainability, recognised nationally and internationally, including by UNIDO and India’s INDC under the UNFCCC.

Bhargava expanded GreenCo’s focus to include net zero pathways, water positivity, circular economy practices, and green supply chains, fostering partnerships with governments, regulators, industry groups, and academia.

Commenting on the transition, Bhargava said, “I am proud to hand over GreenCo to Vikram Kasbekar. His expertise and passion for sustainability will help advance our mission and navigate future challenges.”

Kasbekar outlined his vision to accelerate GreenCo’s impact by expanding its footprint across industries, enhancing regional engagement, and scaling capacity building for sustainability professionals.

He highlighted the importance of green supply chains, net zero certifications for water, waste, and carbon, and the role of innovation and technology, including AI and IoT, in driving environmental performance.