NEW DELHI: Bharti Airtel has reappointed founder Sunil Bharti Mittal as Chairman for another five-year term, extending his leadership at one of India’s largest telecom operators till September 30, 2031.

The decision was approved by Airtel’s board during its meeting held on May 13, 2026, and remains subject to shareholder approval. Mittal’s fresh term will begin from October 1, 2026, after the completion of his current tenure.

The reappointment reinforces investor and board confidence in Mittal’s leadership as Airtel continues to expand its 5G footprint, digital infrastructure, enterprise services, and global telecom operations. Under his leadership, Airtel has transformed from a domestic telecom operator into a multinational communications and digital services company with operations across Asia and Africa.

Founded by Mittal in 1976, the Bharti Group has diversified into telecommunications, satellite communications, digital infrastructure, financial services, and technology ventures. Airtel currently remains one of the key players driving India’s digital connectivity ambitions and 5G rollout.

The board also approved the reappointment of Nisaba Godrej as an independent director for another five-year term. The developments come amid broader strategic restructuring within the Bharti Group, including moves to strengthen promoter holdings and long-term succession planning.

Industry analysts believe Mittal’s continued presence at the helm will provide strategic stability as Airtel competes aggressively in India’s rapidly evolving telecom and digital services market against rivals including Jio and Vodafone Idea.