Vineet Nayyar, Tech Mahindra's Former VC And Doyen Of Indian Tech Industry, Dies At 85

Vineet Nayyar, the former Vice Chairman of Tech Mahindra, has passed away at the age of 85. The news was conveyed through the social media platform X by CP Gurnani, former MD & CEO of Tech Mahindra.

Gurnani shared the grief and said, “Heartbreaking news..India has lost one its finest leaders today.. #VineetNayyar.. Personally it’s like losing the light that has led me for decades…He was friend, philosopher, brother, guide & statesman par excellence.. My heart and thoughts with Reva and family. #OmShanti.”

IT industry body Nasscom took to X and expressed condolence.

“We will always remember the significant contributions of Vineet Nayyar, former Executive Vice Chairman of Tech Mahindra. His visionary leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on the industry. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. His impact and achievements have carved a lasting legacy,” Nasscom posted.

Nayyar has led several organisations across industries creating high-performing teams and successful businesses. He had a rich and varied experience having worked with the government, international multilateral agencies and the corporate sector both public and private in a career that spans over 40 years

Nayyar started his career with the Indian Administrative Service. While in the government, he held series of senior positions, including that of a District Magistrate, Secretary Agriculture & Rural development for the Government of Haryana and Director, Department Of Economic Affairs, Government of India.

Nayyar worked with the World Bank for over 10 years in a series of senior assignments, including successively being the Chief for the Energy, Infrastructure and the Finance Divisions for East Asia and Pacific.

In the Corporate sector, Nayyar was the founding Chairman & Managing Director of the state-owned Gas Authority of India. In the private sector, he served as the Managing Director of HCL Corporation and as the Vice Chairman of HCL Technologies. He was also the founder & CEO of HCL Perot Systems.

He also served as a Director on the Boards of Indian Oil Corporation, Great Eastern Shipping, Kotak Life Insurance, Business Standard Ltd, The Mahindra United World College of India, The Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Ltd and the Tech Mahindra Foundation.