Anant Goenka Named FICCI President-Elect for 2025–26

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has appointed Anant Goenka, Vice Chairperson of the RPG Group, as its President-Elect for 2025–26. This announcement was made on Tuesday and marks a key leadership transition in one of India’s oldest and most influential business chambers.

Who is Anant Goenka?

• Anant Goenka currently serves as Senior Vice President at FICCI and holds the position of Vice Chairperson at RPG Group, a diversified Indian industrial conglomerate with interests in sectors like infrastructure, tyres (CEAT), IT, and healthcare.
• Goenka is a third-generation business leader, known for modernizing operations and driving digital transformation within the RPG Group. He holds degrees from Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania) and Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management.
• His appointment as FICCI president-elect signals a generational shift and the growing influence of young industrial leaders in shaping India’s policy and economic dialogue.

Succession and Predecessor

• Anant Goenka will succeed Harsha Vardhan Agarwal, the current FICCI President and Vice Chairman & Managing Director of Emami Group. Harsha Vardhan is a second-generation entrepreneur who led FICCI through the 2024–25 term.
• Under his leadership, FICCI focused on MSME reforms, exports, ESG, and inclusive growth, contributing significantly to business–government collaboration.

Role and Relevance of FICCI

Founded in 1927, FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry) is one of India’s most prominent business associations. It plays a vital role in,

• Representing Indian industries in policy discussions
• Engaging with the government on economic reforms
• Promoting international trade partnerships
• Organizing high-profile forums like FICCI Frames, FICCI Flo, and India Innovation Summit

The president leads these efforts by interfacing with ministers, regulators, and global investors, influencing economic direction and business policy formulation.