IIT Bombay alumnus Shashi Shekhar Vempati receives Padma Shri

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay alumnus Shashi Shekhar Vempati has been conferred the Padma Shri by the President of India in recognition of his contributions to public service, media transformation and institution-building, the institute announced. He graduated from IIT Bombay with a BTech in chemical engineering in 1995 and has worked across technology, media, governance and citizen engagement over the past three decades.

The institute highlighted Vempati’s tenure as the youngest chief executive officer (CEO) of Prasar Bharati, during which he led a major modernisation drive of India’s public broadcasting system. Under his leadership, Doordarshan and All India Radio underwent digital transformation, expanded their global reach and modernised content delivery systems.

Also read IIT Madras hands over 25 indigenous wheelchairs to Army Hospital

IIT Bombay said the impact of these reforms became particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when public broadcasting played a key role in delivering trusted information, educational content and cultural programming to millions of people across the country.

Congratulating Vempati on the honour, IIT Bombay Director Shireesh Kedare said the recognition reflected the importance of strengthening public institutions.

“India rightly celebrates those who build great companies, technologies and industries. But nation-building also depends on leaders like Shashi who strengthen institutions that outlast individuals and serve generations of citizens. His recognition with the Padma Shri is a proud moment not only for IIT Bombay, but for everyone who believes that technology can be a force for public good,” Kedare said.

Also read IIT Placement Guidelines: Students told to remove JEE ranks, GATE scores from resumes

IIT Bombay's role in Vempati's journey

Vempati recently took over as chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), adding another leadership role in the fields of media, culture and public policy.

Reflecting on receiving the Padma Shri, education at IIT Bombay had shaped his approach to solving complex problems, Vempati said.

“I am deeply humbled by this recognition. My years at IIT Bombay taught me to approach difficult problems with curiosity, discipline and a sense of purpose. Those lessons have remained with me throughout my career and continue to guide my belief that public institutions can be transformed through innovation, commitment and collective effort,” he said.

According to IIT Bombay, Vempati’s recognition highlights the broader contributions of its alumni not only through technological innovation and entrepreneurship but also through strengthening institutions that serve society.