February 25, 2026
India’s 10 Most Inspiring CIOs 2025

Trade Flock has finally released its most sought-after magazine issue, “India’s 10 Most Inspiring CIOs 2025,” a significant milestone for the featured CIOs. This edition features tech professionals who manage IT staff, infrastructure, software development, data security, and vendor relationships, and who are not only developing technology but also earning people’s trust through their expertise in aligning technology with business goals.

Inspiration For India’s Next Generation

The 2025 edition highlights the CIOs who masterminded it, all from different companies. Still, their contributions are similar: we’re introducing them as India’s 10 Most Inspiring CIOs 2025. They oversee technology implementation, security, and innovation, often reporting to the CEO. The role focuses on driving efficiency, digital transformation, and leveraging technology to gain a competitive advantage. 

We’ve selected these leaders for their excellence in their work and leadership. These leaders excel at aligning complex technology infrastructure with core business goals, transforming IT from a support function into a primary driver of growth.

Let’s Light On To India’s 10 Most Inspiring CIOs 

This year’s list of India’s 10 Most Inspiring CIOs 2025 reflects how CIOs contribute to their companies by overseeing the protection of organisational data, establishing security policies, and managing risks related to data breaches and regulatory compliance

Often described as the “heartbeat” or “backbone” of a company’s technology, ITOps teams work behind the scenes to maintain the hardware, networks, and software that power daily business activities. Let’s light on India’s 10 most inspiring CIOs-

Vinod Gopinathan- Head Product Portfolio Management and CIDO- Ashok Leyland

Vinod Gopinathan, Head Product Portfolio Management and CIDO of Ashok Leyland, has been named to India’s 10 most inspiring CIOs 2025 for his over 30 years of experience in automotive and IT operations. He enhances operational efficiency and unlocks new business opportunities. Vinod participates in discussions on AI, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and the future of automotive technology, aiming to shape the next phase of technology-driven innovation in mobility and manufacturing.

Manoj Gautam- CIO and Head Of IT- Maruti Suzuki Limited India

Manoj Gautam has been listed in India’s 10 most inspiring CIOs 2025 for giving over 18 years of hard work to MSIL. His work is to plan and execute IT strategies aligned with business goals and objectives. Gautam joined MSIL i 2005 and has made a significant contribution to the development of its IT infrastructure and applications at the Greenfield Manesar Plant. His current functional areas include Digital Transformation, Industry 4.0, and Cybersecurity.

Rucha Nanavati- Chief Digital Transformation Officer- Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. (Automotive and Farm Equipment Business)

Rucha Nanavati has been named to India’s 10 Most Inspiring CIOs 2025 for her work with the Mahindra Group, focusing on digital solutions, cloud modernisation, and artificial intelligence to drive business strategy and operational efficiency in the automotive sector.  As the CDO, she oversees the digital agenda for Mahindra’s automotive division, integrating emerging technologies, including generative AI and machine learning, into manufacturing and customer experience.

Jayant (Jay) Goyal- CIO- CoForge

Jayant Goyal is featured in India’s 10 Most Inspiring CIOs 2025 for serving as a CIO in CoForge, a global digital services and solutions provider. He joined the company in February 2023 and leads corporate IT and cybersecurity operations. He has over two decades of experience in the information technology sector over two decades of experience in the information technology sector over two decades of experience in the information technology sector. 

Gopi Thangvel- Group CIO- Larsen & Toubro

Gopi Thangvel has been named one of India’s 10 most inspiring CIOs 2025 for his role in L&T’s digital transformation initiatives, which focus on enhancing operational efficiency. With a career spanning more than two decades, Thangavel brings extensive experience. His primary goal will be the company’s digital transformation journey, ensuring we leverage the best technologies to drive innovation and growth,” said Thangavel in an interview with ETCIO.

About TradeFlock

TradeFlock is a Global media platform and magazine dedicated to uncovering leaders worldwide. By drawing inspiration from the brightest minds, TradeFlock serves as a conduit between current success and future inspiration.

In this edition, we will unveil India’s 10 most inspiring CIOs of 2025, who have spent decades in their fields and gained extensive experience in their respective areas. Our mission is to encourage leaders who are brightening India with their talent to be recognised today and in the future.