Praful Patel

Praful Patel has truly emerged as the icon for development of the civil aviation sector in India.

For the first time, the country has seen such rapid strides in civil aviation, which was one of the grossly neglected sectors as it affected a handful who could afford to fly. After taking over, Patel literally changed the face of the sector.

Be it state-run carriers Air India and Indian Airlines, which were allowed to order new fleet after 16 years, or the development of airports through public-private partnership. By allowing new carrier to take wings in the country, he made air transport a viable option.

He inherited his passion for politics and social service from his father. The Patel family runs the Gondia Education Society, which imparts knowledge to 80,000 students in Gondia, Maharashtra, paving the way for youngsters to become self-reliant. He also owns the Rs 500 crore CJ Group of companies.