Deepesh Nanda, Former Tata Power MD, Joins Race for NTPC CMD Post

New Delhi, June 26, 2026: In a notable development for India’s power sector, Deepesh Nanda, the former Managing Director of Tata Power, has been shortlisted among 18 candidates for the prestigious position of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of NTPC Limited, the country’s largest power generation company.

Nanda’s entry into the fray brings valuable private sector experience to a role that has traditionally been held by senior public sector executives. His candidature has generated considerable interest as NTPC prepares for a leadership transition following the end of Gurdeep Singh’s extended tenure on July 31, 2026. The position is expected to become vacant from August 1, 2026.

Deepesh Nanda’s Strong Credentials

Deepesh Nanda (also referred to as Dipesh Nanda) has built a reputation as a dynamic leader in the renewable energy space during his tenure at Tata Power. He played a key role in expanding the company’s clean energy portfolio, including solar, wind, and hybrid power projects. His expertise aligns well with India’s aggressive push towards energy transition, net-zero targets, and the growing importance of renewables within NTPC’s long-term strategy.

Industry observers see his inclusion in the shortlist as a positive signal that the government is open to bringing in proven talent from the private sector for critical leadership roles in public sector undertakings, particularly in areas requiring rapid innovation and sustainable growth.

The NTPC Leadership Shortlist

The Search-cum-Selection Committee (SCSC) has finalised a diverse panel of 18 candidates. The list includes:

• 11 Executive Directors from major energy sector PSUs such as NTPC, IOCL, GAIL, Power Grid, and PFC.

• Three serving Directors from NTPC, Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Ltd (GUVNL), and IOCL.

• Select professionals with private sector backgrounds, including Deepesh Nanda.

This balanced shortlist reflects an effort to combine deep institutional knowledge with fresh perspectives needed to navigate the evolving energy landscape.

Selection Process So Far

The process gained momentum after the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) did not recommend any candidate following interviews held in May 2025. The Ministry of Power subsequently invited applications between February 28 and March 28, 2026. The SCSC is now at an advanced stage of evaluation, with interviews expected to play a crucial role in the final decision. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) will take the final call on the appointment.

Challenges for the Next NTPC CMD

NTPC, often called the power giant of India, currently manages one of the largest thermal power portfolios while rapidly expanding its renewable energy capacity. The next CMD will be tasked with:

• Accelerating renewable energy addition targets

• Modernising ageing thermal assets for better efficiency

• Scaling up energy storage, green hydrogen, and battery storage initiatives

• Maintaining reliable and affordable power supply amid rising demand

Deepesh Nanda’s strong background in renewables could prove particularly relevant as the company balances its conventional strengths with the country’s clean energy ambitions.

What Lies Ahead

The NTPC CMD position is among the most important leadership roles in India’s infrastructure sector. The selected candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation’s energy security and sustainability journey.

As the selection process moves forward, all eyes remain on the SCSC and the final recommendation. While no frontrunner has been officially declared, Deepesh Nanda’s presence in the shortlist has certainly added an interesting dimension to this high-stakes leadership race.