Tata Group age retirement policy no bar, N Chandrasekaran gets third term as Chairman

By Admin

13 Oct, 2025

In a remarkable move reflecting both trust and vision, Tata Trusts has reportedly proposed a third term for N Chandrasekaran as Chairman of Tata Sons, breaking from the Group’s traditional retirement policy. The decision, as reported by The Economic Times, underscores the leadership continuity and strategic focus that the Tata conglomerate seeks to maintain as it navigates through key transformational projects.

Retirement Policy and the Exception
Under Tata Group’s existing retirement policy, executives are expected to retire at the age of 65, although they can continue in non-executive roles until the age of 70. Chandrasekaran’s second term is set to conclude in February 2027, by which time he will reach the retirement age limit. However, the proposal for a third term marks a rare exception, signaling the Group’s confidence in his leadership and the need for stability during a critical growth phase.

Why the Extension?
According to sources cited in the report, the decision to extend Chandrasekaran’s term was primarily driven by the need for “continuity of functioning” across several strategic initiatives. His leadership is considered essential for steering major ongoing projects   including the semiconductor manufacturing program, electric vehicle battery production, and the revival and expansion of Air India. These ventures are crucial to Tata’s long-term vision of advancing India’s technological and industrial self-reliance.

Who Proposed the Extension?
The proposal to extend Chandrasekaran’s tenure was reportedly put forth by Noel Tata and Venu Srinivasan during a Tata Trusts meeting held on September 11, where the resolution was unanimously approved. The resolution has since been sent to Tata Sons, which will finalize the decision regarding Chandrasekaran’s third term starting from 2027.

A Decade of Leadership
N Chandrasekaran, who began his journey with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), joined the board of Tata Sons in October 2016 and was appointed Chairman in January 2017. His leadership saw Tata Group through a series of major milestones, including the consolidation of businesses, the revival of the aviation division through Air India’s acquisition, and the Group’s growing presence in the digital, automotive, and renewable sectors.

Looking Ahead
If confirmed, Chandrasekaran’s third term would reinforce Tata Group’s commitment to long-term transformation over rigid adherence to traditional norms. His continued leadership could ensure stability and focus as the conglomerate expands its footprint in high-tech manufacturing, sustainability, and global competitiveness.

While Tata Trusts has not officially commented on the development, the move clearly signals that when it comes to leadership, the Group values vision and continuity over convention   a philosophy that has long defined the Tata legacy.