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.
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.
Member of Parliament for Loughborough
Jeevun Sandher
Jeevun Sandher Singh is a British politician who has been serving as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Loughborough since the 2024 general election. A member of the Labour Party, Singh has built a reputation for his commitment to social justice and equality.
Before entering Parliament, he worked as an economist and policy advisor, specializing in issues related to inequality and economic reform. His academic background includes a degree in economics, and he has contributed to several think tanks, advocating for progressive economic policies.
Singh’s priorities as an MP include improving public services, tackling economic inequality, and supporting environmental sustainability. As of 2024, he is seen as a rising figure in British politics, representing a new generation of Labour leadership. Indiaspora is proud to have Jeevun Sander on our Government Leaders List.
Member of Parliament for Surrey Centre
Randeep Sarai
MP Sarai, during his first term as the Member of Parliament for Surrey Centre, served as Pacific Caucus Chair from 2016-2018, a member of the Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Committee and the Public Accounts Committee. Randeep was re-elected in 2019 to represent Surrey Centre for a second term and currently sits on the International Trade Committee.
Randeep is a community leader, a lawyer and a real estate developer. He was a Founder and has served as a Director of Virsa – Supporting Youth Strengthening Families Society and helped start South Asian Community Coalition Against Youth Violence, which successfully championed for the creation of the Integrated Gang Task Force.
He graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts and went on to complete his Bachelor of Laws Born at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. During his spare time, he cherishes time with his family, including their Labrador named Mr. Cuddles, and enjoys activities such as yoga, soccer and jogging.
Member of Parliament for Derby South
Baggy Shanker
Baggy Shanker is a British politician serving as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Derby South since the 2024 general election. A member of the Labour Party, Shanker won the seat with a commitment to addressing local issues and enhancing community welfare.
Prior to his parliamentary career, he was actively involved in local government, focusing on initiatives related to education and public services. Shanker has worked closely with various community organizations to drive positive change.
His election marks a significant milestone in representing diverse voices in Parliament, and he continues to prioritize the needs of his constituents in Derby South. Indiaspora is proud to have Baggy Shanker on our Government Leaders list.
Senator for New South Wales
Dave Sharma
Dave Sharma is an Australian politician of Indian origin and former diplomat known for his significant contributions in both fields. He served as the MP for Wentworth from 2019-2022 and was recently elected as a Senator for New South Wales in November 2023.
Sharma’s diplomatic career includes his role as Australia’s Ambassador to Israel from 2013 to 2017, where he strengthened Australia-Israel relations. He also served in various other diplomatic capacities, including postings in Washington, D.C., and Papua New Guinea.
In parliament, Sharma was noted for his work on foreign policy, economic issues, and support for innovation and technology sectors. He played a key role in the bipartisan endorsement of free trade agreements and the AUKUS agreement, and he advocated for Australia’s net-zero emissions target by 2050. Indiaspora is proud to have Dave Sharma in our Global Government List.
Vice Chairperson of the National Assembly
Dewanchandrebhose Sharman
Dewanchandrebhose Sharman is a prominent Surinamese politician serving as the Vice Chairperson of the National Assembly as of 2024. A member of the Progressive Reform Party (VHP), he has played a significant role in Suriname’s political landscape.
Sharman’s career is marked by his commitment to enhancing governance and public service in the country. He has been actively involved in legislative processes, advocating for policies that promote social welfare and economic development. Through his leadership, Sharman aims to address key issues facing Suriname, including infrastructure development and community engagement.
His dedication to public service and community upliftment continues to earn him respect and recognition within the political arena. Indiaspora is proud to have Dewanchandrebhose Sharman on our Government Leaders list.
Member of Parliament for Brampton East
Maninder Sidhu
MP Maninder Sidhu is a first-term Parliament member who was named parliamentary secretary to international development minister Karina Gould by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. He is the Member of Parliament for Brampton East. Maninder knows what it takes to strengthen our middle class, create well-paying new jobs, and offer real help to families. He believes in unlocking the potential of our talented young people and entrepreneurs and building new, home-grown businesses and companies. He will work to ensure every young person has the same opportunity he has had to live, work and raise a family in our hometown. Today, motivated by gratitude for the opportunities he has had, Maninder is determined to help young people here find more success, close to home and their families.
He is the founder of The Kindness Movement Charity and mentors aspiring young entrepreneurs. Maninder graduated from the University of Waterloo and built a successful customs brokerage business.
Member of Parliament for Brampton South
Sonia Sidhu
MP S. Sidhu, since being elected as the MP for Brampton South has been a fierce advocate for healthcare. As a member of the health committee, Sonia has advised on 18 different reports that impact the lives of Canadians every day, including the report recommending the implementation of a national pharmacare plan, drinking water standards and more. She has also been an advocate for national pharmacare and she crossed the country to consult with experts and her report “Defeating Diabetes” was presented earlier this year to the Minister of Health. She has also raised her voice to bring more jobs and investment to her community, supporting investments in her local economy, and jobs that are being created by companies like Amazon. She has also been working to ensure that there are more co-op jobs so that graduates can get out into the workplace with the experience that they need. She is a tireless worker who fights for her community, especially the seniors in her riding.
Before entering politics, she was a small business owner, an entrepreneur, and worked in Victoria Hospital as a Cardiac Technologist. Before being elected, she worked as a healthcare professional for almost 15 years, in Brampton South where she was involved in diabetes research and education in Brampton.
Sonia has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science.
Member of the House of Lords
Ranbir Singh Suri
Lord Ranbir Singh Suri is a British politician and a Member of the House of Lords as of 2024. He has been an influential advocate for various social and economic issues, particularly focusing on community development and public policy. A member of the Conservative Party, Lord Suri has actively participated in legislative discussions and committees, contributing his insights on matters affecting diverse communities in the UK.
His commitment to public service is reflected in his efforts to enhance dialogue between different cultural groups and promote inclusivity. With a background in business, he brings a pragmatic approach to his political endeavors, aiming to create positive change within society. Indiaspora is proud to have Lord Ranbir Singh Suri on our Government Leaders list.
Member of the Legislative Assembly for Kursk
Abhay Kumar Singh
As of 2024, Abhay Kumar Singh is an MLA for Kursk in Russia. Originally from India, Singh’s career path is distinctive due to his involvement in Russian politics as an expatriate. He is known for fostering strong ties between India and Russia, focusing on strengthening economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and bilateral relations.
His role as MLA in Kursk has seen him actively involved in promoting regional development, infrastructure projects, and advocating for immigrant communities. Singh’s background includes experience in business and diplomacy, which has contributed to his success in navigating the political landscape in Russia.
He continues to build on his commitment to international collaboration and regional prosperity. Indiaspora is proud to have Abhay Kumar Singh on our Government Leaders list.
Leader of the Opposition, Secretary-General of the Workers' Party
Pritam Singh
Pritam Singh is the Secretary-General of the Workers’ Party (WP) and Singapore’s first formally designated Leader of the Opposition. He has represented the Eunos ward in Aljunied GRC since 2011. Singh’s educational background includes a BA in History from the National University of Singapore and a MaA in War Studies from King’s College London.
He also holds a JD degree from Singapore Management University. Singh joined the Workers’ Party and was elected to Parliament in 2011. He became Secretary-General of the WP in 2018, succeeding Low Thia Khiang.
Following the 2020 general election, where WP won 10 seats, Singh was appointed Leader of the Opposition. His leadership focuses on presenting alternative policies, enhancing government accountability, and advocating for transparency and social justice. Indiaspora is proud to have Pritam Singh in our Global Government List.
Leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), MP for Burnaby South
Jagmeet Singh
MP Jagmeet Singh became the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) in 2017 and has served in Parliament representing Burnaby South in British Columbia since 2019. Jagmeet was the deputy leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party from 2015 to 2017, before becoming a candidate for the party at the federal level. His election as the leader of the NDP made him the first person of color to lead a major political party in Canada.
Jagmeet practiced as a criminal defense lawyer before his entry into Canadian politics. He first served as the Member of Provincial Parliament for Ontario in 2011 and became the first turban-wearing Sikh to serve in the legislative body. During his time in the Ontario Parliament, he was appointed the NDP’s critic for justice and consumer services.
Growing up in the greater Toronto area, Jagmeet often faced bullying and learned martial arts as a means to defend himself. This practice led to him win championship titles in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Jagmeet received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Western Ontario and completed his law degree from the Osgoode Law School at York University.
Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Member of the National Assembly
Narend Singh
Narend Singh MP is a seasoned and well respected political figure in South Africa – to many in his home country he is a household name and a formidable force in holding the South African government accountable. His roots trace back to his grandfather, Mr Bendasari Singh, who arrived as an indentured labourer to South Africa on the 24th April 1897 at 23 years of age, hailing from Gorakhpur in the State of Uttar Pradesh. He established himself and settled on the south-coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, where he started his family.
In 1994, he was appointed a Senator in the first Senate of the Republic of South Africa. In the Province of KwaZulu-Natal he first served in the role of Leader of Government Business and later appointed as Member of the Executive Council in various portfolios from April 1997 to March 2006. Singh, has over three decades of experience in serving his country in public office and is a key figure in his political home – South Africa’s fourth largest political party, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP). He currently serves the IFP as Treasurer General and in Parliament’s National Assembly, he serves as Chief Whip of the IFP’s 15 Member Parliamentary Caucus. A patriot, a conservative and a true champion of democratic rights and freedoms, Narend Singh, believes that his fellow South Africans and by extension all who reside within the African Diaspora, can only truly be liberated and free – once economic liberation is met with social justice built on strong, independent constitutional and democratic principles on the African continent at large.
Narend Singh holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Economic Principles from the University of London (UoL), a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Policy and African Studies from the University of Johannesburg and Masters Degree (MSc) in Public Policy and Management, (UoL)..On a lighter note, Narend Singh enjoys spending time with his family, his grand-children and friends and is an avid reader, an adept communicator and a dedicated servant of the people. He is passionate about service delivery and fully immerses himself in assisting local non-profit community based organisations.
Member of the House of Lords
Prem Nath Sikka
Lord Prem Nath Sikka is a distinguished academic and political figure who has been a Member of the House of Lords since 2020. As of 2024, he is a prominent Labour peer, contributing significantly to discussions on economic policy, corporate accountability, and social justice.
Sikka is known for his extensive work in accounting and finance, having published numerous research papers highlighting the flaws in corporate governance, tax avoidance, and auditing practices.
Prior to his appointment to the House of Lords, he was a professor at the University of Essex and the University of Sheffield. His work often focuses on advocating for greater transparency, fairness in taxation, and stronger regulation of corporate entities to protect public interest.
Lord Sikka continues to be an influential voice in shaping policy debates in the UK. Indiaspora is proud to have Lord Prem Nath Sikka on our Government Leaders list.
United States Representative from Michigan
Shri Thanedar
Shri Thanedar became Michigan’s 13th Congressional District Representative making him the 5th Indian-American to be elected to the US Congress. Thanedar came to the US from India back in 1979 with only a small blue suitcase and $20 dollars in his pocket. In August 2018, Shri made a historic run in the Democratic Primary as the first Indian-American in Michigan to pursue the office of governor in his home state. He has been on the front lines with the Fight for $15 Movement because he himself has worked minimum wage jobs.
Shri is also a Ph.D scientist, an author, a former Michigan democratic gubernatorial candidate, a retired small business owner. In 1990, he purchased a failing small business that had three employees. He grew that business into a pharmaceutical and chemical research services company of international reputation with 450 employees. In 2010, Shri started a small chemical and pharmaceutical research services company in Michigan, which in 2016 grew to about 50 employees. His companies have developed and invented many medicine formulations that everyday save human and animal lives. Shri is a proven jobs creator and understands how to build teams to grow successful businesses.
Shri received his B.S degree in Chemistry (Karnatak University) and an M.S. degree in chemistry (Bombay University). He holds a PhD in Chemistry at the University of Akron in 1982. He was also a post-doctoral research scholar at the University of Michigan from 1982-1984.When families get to know him, they recognize that he has the knowledge, the people skills and the endurance to work tirelessly for real change in Michigan by setting policy that works for the people to improve quality of life for all.
Member of Parliament for Huddersfield
Harpreet Uppal
Harpreet Uppal is a British politician serving as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Huddersfield since 2024. A member of the Labour Party, she made history as one of the first female MPs of Mauritian descent in the UK Parliament.
Before her election, Uppal worked extensively in community service, focusing on education and youth development. She has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion within the political sphere, pushing for policies that support underrepresented communities.
In Parliament, she has been involved in various committees, contributing to discussions on education, health, and social justice, showcasing her commitment to improving the lives of her constituents and promoting equitable opportunities for all. Indiaspora is proud to have Harpreet Uppal on our Government Leaders list.
Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Member of Parliament for Edmonton Mill Woods
Tim Uppal
MP Uppal is the Member of Parliament for Edmonton Mill Woods and the Caucus-Party Liaison for Canada’s Official Opposition. Tim comes from a hardworking and proud Canadian family who emigrated from Punjab, India. He previously served as the Minister of State for Democratic Reform and the Minister of State for Multiculturalism during Stephen Harper’s Conservative government.
Prior to entering politics, he was a residential mortgage manager for TD Canada Trust and served as a senior advisor to the Conservative Party of Canada. He was executive producer and host of a radio show on CKER in Edmonton.
Tim earned his MBA from the Ivey School of Business. He and his wife are enjoying the gifts and responsibilities of raising their three young children.
Member of Parliament for Walsall Bloxwich
Valerie Vaz
Valerie Vaz is the Member of Parliament (MP) for Walsall Bloxwich, serving in the UK Parliament. As of 2024, she continues to be a prominent figure in British politics, having held her seat since being first elected in 2010.
A member of the Labour Party, Vaz has contributed significantly to parliamentary discussions on various issues, particularly in areas related to justice, equality, and governance. She has held various leadership roles within the party, including serving as Shadow Leader of the House of Commons.
Throughout her political career, Vaz has been known for her advocacy for the rights of workers, improvements in public health services, and strengthening of democratic processes in the UK. Indiaspora is proud to have Valerie Vaz on our Government Leaders list.
Member of the House of Lords
Rumi Verjee
Lord Verjee was educated in the UK from the age of six and adopted Britain as his home following the expulsion of the Asian-Ugandan population. He was appointed to the House of Lords in 2013. In parliament, he takes an active interest in areas such as health, international development, social mobility, entrepreneurship and ensuring equal opportunities for all within society. He has been a significant supporter of the party’s Leadership Programme, finding and mentoring candidates from minority groups, helping them gain seats for the Liberal Democrats and diversify the party’s talent pool.
Lord Rumi has had a varied career as a multiple entrepreneur and philanthropist. Rumi founded Domino’s pizza in the UK, owned Watford football club with Elton John, and Mayfair’s luxury china and glass emporium, Thomas Goode & Co. His current focus is on real estate. Through his charity, The Rumi Foundation, he supports a broad range of innovative initiatives tackling some of the world’s most pressing issues in education and inequality. He is also Chairman of the international development and youth empowerment movement, WE UK. Rumi was awarded a CBE for charitable services in 2009 and served as a member of the Advisory Board of the British Olympic Association for the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Lord Rumi studied Law at Downing College, University of Cambridge where he is now an Honorary Fellow.
Member of the House of Lords
Sandip Verma
Baroness Sandip Verma is a British politician and businesswoman who has been a member of the House of Lords since 2006, representing the Conservative Party. Throughout her career, she has been an advocate for diversity, women’s rights, and international development.
Baroness Verma served as a government minister in several roles, including Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for International Development (DFID) and at the Department of Energy and Climate Change. She has worked to promote gender equality, sustainable development, and efforts to combat climate change.
Baroness Verma is also involved in numerous charitable and community initiatives, using her platform to champion social justice and empower marginalized communities both in the UK and globally. Indiaspora is proud to have Baroness Sandip Verma on our Government Leaders list.
Minister of Justice and Attorney General
Arif Virani
Arif Virani is the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada as of 2024. A seasoned lawyer and human rights advocate, he has had a distinguished career in both law and public service.
MP Arif was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Parkdale—High Park in 2015 and was re-elected in 2019. Arif was appointed by Prime Minister Trudeau as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice, and has served in this role since 2018. He also served as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, (2015-2017) helping welcome over 50,000 Syrian refugees to Canada. He was then appointed the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Heritage (2017-18), where Arif worked on Multiculturalism, restoring Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy, and co-developed with First Nations, Inuit and Metis leaders Canada’s first-ever Indigenous Languages legislation.
Between degrees, he spent a year working in Ottawa with 2 MPs under the Parliamentary Internship Programme.He was one of the founding Board members of Toronto’s legal aid clinic SALCO. He is a supporter of the Redwood Shelter for abused women, has regularly helped at the Parkdale Food Bank, and led community efforts to address mental health stigma. He continues to volunteer with Roncyworks and the Sorauren Park Hosers, flooding the local rink. He is a lawyer by profession.
Arif has an Honours B.A. in History and Political Science from McGill and completed his LL.B. at the University of Toronto, where he graduated as Valedictorian. He speaks English, French, and some Hindi. His Tibetan, Polish and Ukrainian are works in progress. He loves coaching his two young and very active boys.