The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), the premier industry association representing leading telecom, internet, technology, and digital services companies, has announced its new leadership for the 2024-25 term.

Effective June 2024, Abhijit Kishore, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Vodafone Idea Limited, has been appointed as the Chairperson, while Rahul Vatts, Chief Regulatory Officer (CRO) of Bharti Airtel, will serve as the Vice Chairperson, IANS reported from New Delhi.

S.P. Kochhar, Director-General of COAI, welcomed the new appointments, stating, “As India heads into the third innings of the Narendra Modi-led government, we hope that the Digital India programme and other progressive policies will further gather momentum and empower every citizen with access to digital resources and opportunities.”

Abhijit Kishore brings over three decades of extensive experience in the telecom industry, spanning various functions, organizations, and geographies. Prior to his role as COO, Kishore led the Enterprise Business of Vodafone Idea Ltd as the Chief Enterprise Business Officer.

He expressed his vision for the industry, saying, “The telecom industry is growing from strength to strength, and together, we are committed to driving innovation for a more connected, secure, and inclusive world. On behalf of the industry, I would like to reiterate our commitment to support the government’s efforts to bridge the digital divide in the country and further catalyse India’s digital transformation.”

Rahul Vatts, with 29 years of experience in the telecom industry, is recognized as an expert in Telecom & Broadcasting Licensing, Economic Regulations, Spectrum Management, and Regulatory Litigation. As the Chief Regulatory Officer of Bharti Airtel, Vatts oversees Government Relations, Policy, and Regulatory interfaces across the company’s diverse business segments, including mobility broadband, DTH, Data Center, Submarine Cables, its international subsidiaries, and all digital lines of business.

Vatts remarked, “The telecom sector is going through a transformative phase, and we would work in collaboration with the government and regulators to address issues needing attention. I take this opportunity to thank the previous office bearers and look forward to closely working with the members.”

The new leadership is set to steer COAI through a period of significant growth and transformation in the telecom sector, focusing on driving innovation, bridging the digital divide, and supporting India’s digital transformation efforts.