Board of Directors
Mr. Kumar, as Chairman and founding member of Green Infrathink Foundation (GIF), brings a distinguished career in public service and deep expertise in governance, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure development. A former Chairman of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), Mumbai, and India Port Global Ltd., Mr. Kumar is a 1984-batch officer of the Indian Revenue Service (Income Tax). Over his illustrious career, he played key roles in various government bodies, including the Income Tax Department, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Shipping, Ministry of Road Transport, and NITI Aayog.
Mr. Kumar has spearheaded many transformative and strategic infrastructure projects, particularly in the Port & Logistic sector and in the public-private partnership (PPP) space. Among his notable achievements is the conceptualization of India’s largest container port, which attracted a US$1.2 billion investment from the Government of Singapore. His leadership has also facilitated major infrastructure projects ranging from US$100 million to US$500 million, drawing foreign investments from the UAE and beyond.
Closely working with the Ministry of Finance and NITI Aayog, he played a critical role in shaping PPP policies, supporting the development of model Bidding Documents and Concession Agreements. His immense contribution ensured the development of a sustainable, investor-friendly, and robust PPP framework. His innovative approach is exemplified by a US$450 million road project that leveraged container traffic, creating a model later adopted by other infrastructure connectivity initiatives.
Mr. Kumar was also instrumental in setting up the Chabahar Port project in Iran as the founder Chairman of India Port Global Ltd., advancing India’s overseas port capabilities. His deep understanding and extensive knowledge of finance, regulatory mechanisms, and government processes have enabled him to lead and execute complex, high-value, and transformational projects.
At Green Infrathink Foundation, he brings his vision for integrating sustainability, governance, and regulatory best practices into infrastructure development. His vast experience in managing the interface between government and the private sector uniquely positions him to guide the Foundation in advancing green infrastructure projects that align with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Under his leadership, Green Infrathink is poised to become a catalyst for forward-thinking, sustainable infrastructure solutions that meet both global environmental goals and economic growth.
Mr. Gupta, as Managing Director of Green Infrathink Foundation (GIF), brings in extensive experience of strategy, transaction, and management consulting. His decorated career spans around advising and guiding government entities, public enterprises, and large corporations. He has been instrumental in devising, strategizing, and rolling out strategies for innovative, large-size, and complex infrastructure solutions—from programs to projects. His experience traverses along the entire project lifecycle, from concept to commissioning, across infrastructure sectors and across formats—PPP to EPC.
As one of the founders of GIF, Mr. Gupta is deeply committed to integrating, promoting, and developing green and sustainable practices and solutions in infrastructure. His career jewels include developing some of the country’s landmark projects (Nagpur Mumbai Super Communication Expressway), innovating financial solutions (hybrid annuity model) and structure, and pioneering first-of-its-kind infrastructure interventions/solutions (Dry Ports).
His strategic vision and management expertise are evident in his leadership roles in prominent organizations, including Ernst & Young LLP, RODIC Consultants Pvt Ltd, and Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services (IL&FS). With his strong analytical prowess, resilience, empathy, and ethical rectitude, Prashant has successfully delivered numerous large-scale, high-impact, and strategic projects in India, Bangladesh, UAE, and Nepal. His credible leadership is a perfect confluence of curiosity, creativity, and compassion.
Prashant has undertaken an Executive Management Program at IIM Ahmedabad and a Leadership Development Program at ISB, Hyderabad. His academic background and personal attributes, when combined with his wealth of professional experience, position him as a great thought leader in the infrastructure industry.
At Green Infrathink Foundation, Prashant leverages his strategic, management, and leadership expertise to drive initiatives that empower communities, promote responsible governance, and foster inclusive growth. His visionary leadership shall continue to guide the Foundation’s mission of integrating sustainability into infrastructure development and shaping a greener earth.
Mr. Nikam, as the Director of Green Infrathink Foundation (GIF), is a distinguished professional with a diverse and accomplished career spanning public administration and the private sector. With an educational foundation from some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making across various roles in India and the UK.
In his two-decade-long tenure in the Indian Civil Service, Mr. Nikam made significant contributions to public policy and governance. As Financial Advisor in Indian Railways, he played a crucial role in evaluating and recommending large-value infrastructure tenders for critical national projects. During his time as Director (Police) and Director (Personnel) in the Ministry of Home Affairs, India, he led impactful initiatives, showcasing his ability to navigate complex administrative challenges effectively.
Mr. Nikam also brings extensive private-sector experience, having worked with renowned UK infrastructure firms like Balfour Beatty and Costain. He successfully managed large bid teams and played key roles in securing major EPC projects in the highway and airport sectors. Additionally, he contributed to high-value PPP projects in highway maintenance and police accommodation, exemplifying his expertise in global infrastructure development.
On the international stage, Mr. Nikam represented the Indian Government in the USA-India Homeland Security Dialogue, where he spearheaded public policy initiatives to enhance cooperation in capacity-building for law enforcement. He also fostered collaborations with Australia, Israel, Thailand, and the UK, strengthening India’s global partnerships in this critical domain.
Mr. Nikam holds an MSc in Public Policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), an MBA from Cranfield University, and professional accountancy certifications (ACMA, CGMA) from CIMA, UK.
At GIF, Mr. Nikam brings together his diverse expertise in policy advocacy and technology, with his global perspective playing a vital role in advancing sustainable infrastructure solutions. His leadership and vision align with the foundation’s mission to drive green initiatives across infrastructure and beyond. He envisions a future where industrial growth harmonizes with environmental stewardship, promoting policies that balance economic development with ecological responsibility.