Government Leaders List 2024

2024 Government Leaders List

The 2024 Indiaspora Government Leaders List recognizes more than 300 Ieaders of the Indian diaspora who have ascended to the highest ranks of government in 20 countries across the globe.

While some are elected officials, others are appointees or civil servants. All have risen to the call for public service. Key agents in shaping politics and policy from a local to global scale, their leadership will impact generations to come.

Know More

About

This list honors the rich and diverse leadership of the Global Indian Diaspora—a testament to the extraordinary accomplishments of individuals who inspire future generations every day. From widely recognized figures to unsung pioneers, these visionary leaders are shaping industries and transforming society at large.

The list features CEOs and Board Chairpersons of companies with a Market Cap of USD 2 billion and above. Our research included vetted sources such as the Fortune 500, Fortune Global 500, 2025 Forbes Billionaires List and Forbes Global 2000 List. In building our inclusive list, we have also broadened the criteria to feature women leaders who are making a significant mark on the global business landscape in their own right. This list is not merely a showcase of individual success stories but also an acknowledgment of the collective influence of Indian-origin leaders on the world of global business.

While the Indian diaspora are making significant strides in the business world, there is much more advancement needed in achieving gender balance.

Methodology

The Indiaspora Business Leaders 2.0 list includes 90 Business leaders of Indian descent. This powerful group accounts for USD 20 trillion annual revenue globally. This annual revenue is a testament to the economic impact of global Indian leadership.

The primary source of data is several 2025 publications, including the Fortune 500, Forbes Billionaires List and the Forbes Global 2000 List. The market cap and revenue are current as of June 2025 and the data has been sourced through multiple finance sites.

As special points of interest, we would like to note:

While our list features 11 remarkable women leaders out of 90, we recognize the imperative for greater inclusion and advancement for women in business.
The list also includes leaders of the largest Indian conglomerates, recognizing their influence and impact on the global stage, as they contribute significantly to the global economy and exemplify the spirit of Indian entrepreneurship.
We are excited to highlight exceptional individuals, making notable contributions in their home countries across geographies.
This list is a recognition of multiple leadership styles and a celebration of strategic strength and executional excellence.

Indiaspora offers this edition of the Business Leaders 2.0 list as an acknowledgment of the collective influence of Indian-origin leaders on the world of global business and a celebration of possibilities.

Juli Mathew

Presiding Judge of County Court at Law 3

Juli Mathew

Juli Mathew serves as a distinguished judge in Texas as of 2024, known for her commitment to justice and community service. Appointed to the bench in 2020, she has presided over numerous high-profile cases, earning a reputation for fairness and legal acumen.

Mathew, who graduated from the University of Texas School of Law, began her career as a prosecutor, where she successfully handled complex criminal cases. Her dedication to the law is matched by her advocacy for access to justice, particularly for marginalized communities.

In addition to her judicial duties, she actively engages in legal education, mentoring young attorneys and participating in community outreach programs to foster legal awareness and civic engagement. Indiaspora is proud to have Juli Mathew on our Government Leaders list.

A woman standing in front of an american flag.

Tejal Mehta

First Justice of the Ayer District Court

Tejal Mehta

Tejal Mehta serves as a judge in Massachusetts as of 2024, bringing a wealth of legal experience and a commitment to justice to the bench. Appointed in 2021, she has presided over a diverse range of cases, emphasizing fair and equitable treatment in her courtroom.

Mehta earned her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School and began her career as a public defender, advocating for the rights of underserved communities. Her dedication to social justice is evident in her work with various nonprofit organizations, focusing on criminal justice reform and access to legal representation.

Known for her thoughtful approach and integrity, Mehta is actively involved in mentoring young lawyers and promoting legal education in her community. Indiaspora is proud to have Tejal Mehta on our Government Leaders list.

A picture of surendran puttal with the words " 2 0 2 4 global government leaders ".

Surendran Pattel

District court Judge in Fort Bend County

Surendran Pattel

Surendran Pattel is a prominent judge in Texas as of 2024, known for his commitment to justice and community service. Appointed to the bench in 2021, he has earned a reputation for fairness and integrity in his rulings, focusing on civil and criminal cases.

Pattel’s career began as a defense attorney, where he developed a strong foundation in legal advocacy and negotiation. He later served as an Assistant District Attorney, gaining valuable experience in prosecuting complex cases. A graduate of the University of Texas School of Law, Pattel is dedicated to improving access to justice and often participates in community outreach programs aimed at educating the public about the legal system.

His leadership and dedication continue to inspire many in the Texas legal community. Indiaspora is proud to have Surendran Pattel on our Government Leaders list.

Vini Samuel

Superior Court Judge for Grays Harbor County

Vini Samuel

Vini Samuel is a distinguished judge serving in Washington as of 2024. She has made significant contributions to the judicial system through her commitment to justice and equity. Prior to her appointment, Samuel had an accomplished career as a practicing attorney, specializing in civil rights and family law, which provided her with a strong foundation for her judicial role.

Samuel actively participates in various legal and community organizations, promoting access to justice and legal education. Her dedication to public service and commitment to upholding the law have made her a respected figure in the Washington legal community. Indiaspora is proud to have Vini Samuel on our Government Leaders list.

A picture of a person with an american flag and the words " 2 0 2 4 global government leaders."

Ravi Sandill

District Court Judge in Harris County

Ravi Sandill

Ravi K. Sandill is a prominent judge serving in Texas as of 2024. Appointed to the bench, he has garnered respect for his thoughtful rulings and commitment to justice. Prior to his judicial role, Sandill built a successful career as a trial attorney, focusing on civil litigation and criminal defense, which equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the law.

Sandill has also been involved in numerous legal associations, advocating for diversity and inclusion within the legal profession. His leadership and dedication continue to influence the Texas judiciary positively. Indiaspora is proud to have Ravi K. Sandill on our Government Leaders list.

Ketu Shah

Superior Court Judge for King County

Ketu Shah

Ketu Shah is a prominent judge serving in Washington as of 2024, recognized for his commitment to justice and legal integrity. With a legal career spanning over two decades, he has made significant contributions to both civil and criminal law.

Prior to his judicial appointment, Shah served as a senior attorney, where he focused on advocating for underrepresented communities and championing legal reforms. His dedication to public service extends beyond the courtroom; he is actively involved in mentorship programs for aspiring lawyers and community outreach initiatives.

Shah’s approach to the law emphasizes fairness and accessibility, making him a respected figure in the legal community. His leadership continues to influence positive change within the Washington judicial system. Indiaspora is proud to have Ketu Shah on our Government Leaders list.

Manpreet Monica Singh

Harris County Civil Court Judge

Manpreet Monica Singh

Manpreet Monica Singh is a distinguished judge in Texas as of 2024, renowned for her commitment to justice and community service. Appointed to the bench in 2021, she has presided over a variety of cases, earning a reputation for her fair and thoughtful rulings.

Singh holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Houston Law Center and previously practiced as a civil litigator, focusing on civil rights and community advocacy. Her dedication to public service extends beyond the courtroom; she actively participates in legal education programs and mentors aspiring lawyers from diverse backgrounds.

As a trailblazer in the legal community, Singh is passionate about promoting equity and access to justice for all. Indiaspora is proud to have Manpreet Monica Singh on our Government Leaders list.

A picture of sona syed with the words " 2 0 2 4 global government leaders ".

Soma Syed

Civil Court Judge, City of New York

Soma Syed

Soma Syed is a distinguished judge in New York, known for her commitment to justice and community service. Appointed to the bench in 2021, she has presided over a wide range of cases, focusing on fair and equitable treatment in the courtroom.

Her legal career is marked by numerous accolades, including recognition for her work in criminal justice reform and her efforts to promote diversity within the legal system. In addition to her judicial duties, Syed is actively involved in mentoring young lawyers and participating in community outreach programs.

As of 2024, she continues to inspire others through her dedication to upholding the law and serving her community. Indiaspora is proud to have Suhas Subramanyam on our Government Leaders list.

A man with a beard and tie standing in front of an american flag.

Vikram Vilkhu

Brighton Town Justice

Vikram Vilkhu

Vikram Vilkhu made history in January 2024 as the first Indian-American judge in Brighton, New York, marking a significant milestone for representation within the judiciary. Born to Indian immigrants, Vikram pursued a double major in religion and anthropology at Emory University, followed by a law degree from Case Western Reserve University. He has a distinguished legal career, including work with the ACLU, where he helped establish a hotline for hate crime victims post-9/11, and serving as a civilian contractor with the U.S. Army.
Before his judgeship, he worked in the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, prosecuting various cases. Vikram’s appointment reflects his commitment to justice and community representation. Indiaspora is proud to have Vikram Vilkhu on our Government Leaders list.

A judge in an american flag robe and judges hat.

Vince Chhabria

United States district judge of the United States District Court for the Northern District of California

Vince Chhabria

Judge Vince Chhabria serves in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. Appointed by President Barack Obama in 2014, Chhabria has presided over numerous high-profile cases, particularly in areas like consumer rights, intellectual property, and civil liberties. Known for his clear, direct approach, he has developed a reputation for rulings that emphasize accountability and justice.

Before his judicial appointment, Chhabria held the position of Deputy City Attorney for Government Litigation in San Francisco and clerked for both the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and the Supreme Court. His legal career demonstrates a commitment to upholding fair legal standards and reflects his strong grounding in public service and judicial integrity. Indiaspora is proud to have Vince Chhabria on our Government Leaders list.

A picture of hameed dhonji with the words 2 0 2 4 global government leaders.

Hament Dhanji

Justice on the Supreme Court of New South Wales

Hament Dhanji

Hament Dhanji is a distinguished Australian judge and barrister who became the first person of Indian descent to be appointed as a judge to the Supreme Court of New South Wales in 2021. Dhanji’s legal career began in 1990 specializing in criminal law and he appeared as lead counsel in several significant cases before the High Court.

Before his judicial appointment, Dhanji was known for his work with the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions and his appearances before the Police Integrity Commission and the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption.

His appointment to the Supreme Court is seen as a significant milestone, celebrated by the Asian Australian Lawyers Association for promoting diversity within the Australian legal system. Indiaspora is proud to have Hament Dhanji in our Global Government List.

A picture of a person with the words " 2 0 2 4 global government leaders " written on it.|A man in a suit and tie sitting at a table.

Narandran “Jody” Kollapen

Justice of the Constitutional Court

Narandran “Jody” Kollapen

Narandran “Jody” Kollapen, is a distinguished Indo-South African jurist and Constitutional Court Justice. Earning his law degree from the University of South Africa, he became known for his anti-apartheid activism and advocacy for marginalized communities. Kollapen served as a commissioner (1997-2009) and later chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission, addressing human rights violations and championing vulnerable populations’ rights.

Subsequently, he was appointed as a judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, contributing significantly through his rulings and opinions. In December 2021, Kollapen was appointed to the Constitutional Court, reflecting his dedication to justice and the rule of law. Indiaspora is proud to have Narandran “Jody” Kollapen in our Global Government List.

Amit Mehta

Judge of the United States Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia

Amit Mehta

Judge Amit Mehta currently serves on the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, a position he has held since his appointment by President Barack Obama in 2014. Born in India and raised in the U.S., Mehta is one of the few South Asian judges on the federal bench. Before his judicial career, he worked as a public defender in Washington, D.C., and later became a partner at Zuckerman Spaeder LLP, where he specialized in complex civil litigation and white-collar defense. In 2021, Mehta was appointed to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISC), where he reviews national security-related surveillance requests. A graduate of Georgetown University and the University of Virginia School of Law, Judge Mehta is known for his expertise in balancing national security concerns with individual rights.

A picture of a person with an american flag.

Neomi Rao

Circuit Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit

Neomi Rao

Judge Rao was appointed to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in March 2019. Neomi served as Special Assistant and Associate White House Counsel to President George W. Bush from 2005-2006. In July 2017, she was appointed to serve as the Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs in the Office of Management Budget. She served in this position until her appointment to the D.C. Circuit.
Following graduation, she served as a law clerk to Judge J. Harvie Wilkinson III of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit and, in the 2001 October Term, as law clerk to Justice Clarence Thomas of the U.S. Supreme Court. Between her clerkships, Judge Rao served as counsel for nominations and constitutional law to the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary.
In 2002, she joined the international arbitration group of Clifford Chance LLP in London, England. From 2006 to 2017, Judge Rao was a professor at the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University, where she taught constitutional law, legislation and statutory interpretation, and the history and foundations of the administrative state. In 2014, she founded the Center for the Study of the Administrative State, a non-profit Center that promoted academic scholarship and public policy debates about administrative law.
She graduated from Yale College in 1995 and the University of Chicago Law School in 1999.

Vijay Shanker

Judge, DC Court of Appeals

Vijay Shanker

Judge Vijay Shanker,currently serving as a judge on the District of Columbia Court of Appeals, has had a distinguished career in both public service and private practice. He served as Deputy Chief of the Appellate Section in the U.S. Department of Justice’s Criminal Division, where he handled complex appellate cases, particularly those involving criminal law and procedure.

Shanker also worked as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, prosecuting a wide range of criminal cases. His legal experience includes significant time in private practice, where he specialized in white-collar defense and appellate litigation. Shanker is known for his expertise in criminal law and his commitment to public service. He earned his law degree from Harvard Law School.

A picture of the cover of the book 2 0 2 4 global government leaders.

Moxila Upadhyaya

United States Magistrate Judge, United States District Court for the District of Columbia

Moxila Upadhyaya

Judge Moxila A. Upadhyaya was appointed as a United States Magistrate Judge on September 7, 2022. Born in Gujarat, India, and raised near Kansas City, Missouri, she earned her Bachelor of Journalism and B.A. in Latin from the University of Missouri, and her J.D. from American University Washington College of Law. After clerking for Judge Eric T. Washington and later for Judge Robert L. Wilkins, she practiced complex commercial and administrative litigation at Venable LLP. Judge Upadhyaya was recognized for her pro bono work with the Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project and was named Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year by Venable in 2006. She has served on the Committee on Grievances and has been involved with the D.C. Bar Litigation Section, D.C. Access to Justice Foundation, and Council for Court Excellence. She is a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation.

Prue Car

Deputy Premier of New South Wales

Prue Car

Prue Car is an Australian politician of Indian origin currently serving as the Deputy Premier of New South Wales, as well as the Minister for Education and Early Learning and the Minister for Western Sydney. She was first elected to the New South Wales Legislative Assembly as the member for Londonderry in 2015.

Prior to her political career, Car worked as a national communications manager at MS Australia and as an advisor to Premier Bob Carr. Since becoming an MLA, Car has been a strong advocate for education and community issues, successfully campaigning for the establishment of Jordan Springs Public School and opposing plans to dump radioactive waste in Western Sydney. She has focused on improving local infrastructure, including roads, transport, and health services. In 2023, Car was appointed Deputy Premier. Indiaspora is proud to have Prue Car in our Global Government List.

A picture of a person with the words 2 0 2 4 global government leaders

Jagadish Krishnan

Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Riverton in Western Australia

Jagadish Krishnan

Dr. Jagadish Krishnan is an Indian-born Australian politician. He was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Riverton in Western Australia during the 2021 state election, representing the Labor Party. Prior to his political career,

Dr. Krishnan had an extensive medical career. He moved to Perth in 2006 after working in the UK and quickly established himself as a respected GP. He founded Perth GP and expanded his practice to own multiple clinics across the city. In politics,

Dr. Krishnan has been an active advocate for his community, serving as a parliamentary secretary and focusing on issues related to finance, commerce, and women’s interests.

His campaign highlighted his commitment to local issues and garnered significant support, leading to a decisive victory in his electorate. Indiaspora is proud to have Dr. Jagadish Krishnan in our Global Government List.

A picture of a person with the words 2 0 2 4 global government leaders written above them.

Kevin Michel

Western Australian Legislative Assembly Member

Kevin Michel

Kevin Michel has been a member of the Western Australian Legislative Assembly representing the Pilbara region since 2017. Born in India, Michel migrated to Australia in 1990 and settled in the Pilbara region in 2002. There, he started his own air-conditioning business, which grew significantly under his leadership.

Michel’s political career began with his election to the Legislative Assembly, where he has focused on advocating for local jobs and sustainable community development in the Pilbara. He has been instrumental in securing substantial funding for the region, including $1 billion in Royalties for Regions over four years.

Michel is committed to addressing local concerns and ensuring that large projects prioritize local procurement and employment. Indiaspora is proud to have Kevin Michel in our Global Government List.

A man in a suit and tie with the australian flag behind him.

Daniel Mookhey

Treasurer of New South Wales

Daniel Mookhey

Page1 … Page14 Page15 Page16 Page17 Page18

2024 Government Leaders List

Subscribe to our Newsletter