N Chandrasekaran Gets Historic Extension as Tata Accelerates Growth in Semiconductors, EVs, and Air India

In a landmark move, Tata Trusts has approved a third executive term for N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons, breaking the group’s conventional retirement norms. The decision aims to maintain leadership continuity across strategic projects, including semiconductor manufacturing, electric vehicle battery production, and the ongoing transformation of Air India. This extension ensures that critical initiatives under Chandrasekaran’s guidance remain on track during a pivotal growth phase.

Chandrasekaran, a Tata Consultancy Services veteran, joined the board of Tata Sons in 2016 and became chairman in 2017. Under his leadership, the Tata Group has nearly doubled revenue and more than tripled net profits over five years, while expanding into new sectors like electronics, digital platforms, grocery, and fashion.

The extension also comes at a sensitive time as internal discussions continue within Tata Trusts over the future of Tata Sons’ private status. Trustees emphasize that Chandrasekaran’s executive role is crucial for navigating market pressures, geopolitical tensions, and ambitious expansions in semiconductors, defence, and aviation.

Financially, the group reported a revenue of ₹15.34 lakh crore and net profit of ₹1.13 lakh crore in FY25, though market capitalization has dipped by nearly ₹6.9 lakh crore over the past year due to TCS stock declines. Key acquisitions and initiatives, including Air India’s reintegration and Tata Electronics’ semiconductor push, underscore the strategic bets being made under his continued leadership.

With this historic extension, Chandrasekaran is set to guide the Tata Group through one of its most transformative and challenging phases, ensuring sustained growth and innovation across multiple sectors.