Execution of projects a key challenge in India, says Palanivel Thiaga Rajan

Tamil Nadu Minister for Information and Technology and Digital Services on Friday said while India is excellent at “envisioning” and policy-making, the primary challenge remains execution.

“Project management is the bridge needed to close this gap,” he said at the IPMA Global Project Profession Forum 2026 held at Mamallapuram near Chennai. He emphasised the use of “100% pure databases” and AI to democratise citizen services. He highlighted that project management principles must be applied to government schemes to ensure “last-mile” delivery.

The Minister advocated for a shift from intuitive or political decision-making to evidence-based management, where progress is measured by objective metrics rather than effort alone.

N.Ram, Director of The Hindu Group, spoke about the technological shifts in Journalism. He said the BrahMos project is an outstanding example of project management. He pointed out how this particular project was meticulously conceived, planned and executed.

Mladen Vukomanovic, president, IPMA, provided a global perspective on the evolving role of the project professional. He emphasised that success is no longer just about meeting time, budget, and scope. The focus must shift toward value delivery and the long-term social and economic impact of a project.

A. Sivathanu Pillai, president, PMA India, outlined how professional project management is essential for India to reach its goal of becoming a fully developed nation by the centenary of its independence. Drawing on his experience in aerospace and defence, he advocated for a “mission-oriented” management style to tackle challenges such as climate change, energy security, and space exploration. He emphasized that India must not just manage projects but own the technologies behind them.

Kota Harinarayana, former Program Director for Light Combat Aircraft, was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the event. The Project Management Associates (PMA) Honorary Fellowship Award was given to former ISRO Chairman S. Somanath. Several other awards were given to individuals and organizations who have excelled in their respective fields.