Cellular Operators' Association Of India Appoints Abhijit Kishore As New Chairperson

Abhijit Kishore, COO of Vodafone Idea, has been appointed as the Chairman of COAI while Rahul Vatts, CRO of Bharti Airtel, will serve as the Vice Chairman of COAI.

The Cellular Operators' Association of India serves as the premier industry body representing major stakeholders in the telecommunications, Internet, technology and digital services sectors.

The Cellular Operators' Association of India (COAI), the leading industry body for telecom, Internet, technology and digital services companies, announced its new leadership on Tuesday, for the 2024-25 term, effective from June 2024. Abhijit Kishore, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Vodafone Idea (VI), has been appointed as the Chairman of COAI while Rahul Vatts, Chief Regulatory Officer (CRO) of Bharti Airtel, will serve as the Vice Chairman of COAI.

The Cellular Operators' Association of India serves as the premier industry body representing major stakeholders in the telecommunications, Internet, technology and digital services sectors.

“We are in the thick of a digital revolution, with 5G playing the catalyst role in transforming the fabric of our society, economy and governance. We hope that the Digital India program and other progressive policies will further gather momentum and empower every citizen with access to digital resources and opportunities," SP Kochhar, Director General of COAI, said in a statement.

VI's Kishore brings over three decades of experience in the telecom industry, spanning various roles, organisations, and regions. Prior to his appointment as COO at the telco, he led the Enterprise Business of Vodafone Idea Ltd as the Chief Enterprise Business Officer.

“I would like to reiterate our commitment to support the government’s efforts to bridge the digital divide in the country and further catalyse India’s digital transformation," said Abhijit Kishore, Chief Operating Officer of Vodafone Idea.

Airtel's Vatts is a seasoned professional in the telecom industry with 29 years of expertise. He is well-versed in Telecom and Broadcasting Licensing, Economic Regulations, Spectrum Management as well as Regulatory Litigation.

"The telecom sector is going through a transformative phase, and we would work in collaboration with the government and regulators to address issues needing attention. I take this opportunity to thank the previous office bearers and look forward to closely working with the members," said Vatts.