From a Conversation to a Collective Vision: The Story of PAFI’s Journey

In the chronicles of India’s evolving public affairs landscape, the idea of PAFI was born not in a boardroom, but over a quiet, thoughtful conversation and a shared cup of coffee. What began as an informal discussion soon transformed into a pioneering movement that would redefine how public policy professionals engage, collaborate, and advocate in India.

The Spark: A Thought That Found Resonance

In 2008, Ajay Khanna of Jubilant Bhartia Group shared a compelling idea with Prema Sagar (Genesis Burson-Marsteller), Harish Krishnan (Cisco), and Dr. K.C. Ravi (Syngenta): the need for a structured platform for public affairs professionals in India. The concept immediately struck a chord. This shared vision soon drew the support of other like-minded professionals - T. S. Vishwanath (VeK), Rahul Sharma (USIBC), Rajeev Batra (HUL) and Raman Sidhu (EBG Federation) and together, a group of eight founding members came together to turn this idea into a credible and enduring institution. These early conversations explored the complexities surrounding public affairs—the ambiguity of the role, the lack of standard frameworks, and the absence of a shared ethical code. From here, the idea began to take shape. From the outset, the founders envisioned a platform grounded in ethical engagement, informed advocacy, and collaborative problem-solving—a space where professionals could learn, share, and work together across industry, government, and civil society to influence the policy narrative constructively.

A Symbol of Identity and Intention

As the idea of PAFI took form, so did its identity. The PAFI logo is a reflection of the association’s vibrant spirit and purpose. As PAFI’s reach and relevance have grown, the logo stands as a visual reminder of the principles that continue to guide its work.

Turning Vision into Reality

In the early days, PAFI was just an idea—fueled by conviction, volunteer spirit, and a desire to make a difference. Support came generously from likeminded institutions. Chambers and associations like ACMA, SIAM, and FICCI graciously hosted meetings. Cisco’s conference room became a regular venue where the founding team gained momentum, strengthened by increasing participation from the public affairs community.

Visionaries such as Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Sanjay Baru, Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, Tarun Vijay, Amitabh Kant, Dr. Subir Gokarn, Anil Padmanabhan, Dilip Chenoy, Vishnu Mathur, Dr. Subhajyoti Ray, Vinnie Mehta, Didar Singh, and Ajay Singha lent their support, reinforcing the belief that this platform was both essential and timely.

In July 2012, PAFI was formally registered under the Societies Registration Act, XXI of 1860. Membership was opened soon after and the official launch took place on September 25, 2013, with a panel discussion on ‘How to Work for a Vigorous Economy in an Unsettled Polity’, where the newly formed Management Committee also announced its plan to host an annual policy conclave.

The Annual Forum: A Platform Grows

In the months that followed the members worked tirelessly to bring to life a flagship event on Public Affairs, Public Policy and Advocacy. The first National Forum was held on September 18, 2014, with the theme ‘Engaging Stakeholders: Creating Value, Altering Perceptions’. Inaugurated by the then Union Minister of Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhu, the event brought together a packed room of stakeholders eager to engage in this fresh approach to public affairs dialogue. TATA, Cisco, and Jubilant Bhartia Group offered generous support, helping establish what would become PAFI’s flagship event.

Since then, the Forum has evolved and in its new Avatar as the ‘Annual Forum’ has entered its 12th successful year. Over time, it has grown into one of India’s most respected and influential conclaves on public policy, governance, and advocacy. Each edition has expanded in scale, stature, and substance—attracting Cabinet Ministers, senior bureaucrats, CXOs, global experts, media, and academia to engage in forward-thinking, solution-oriented dialogue.

Conversations That Matter

Alongside the Annual Forum, PAFI has convened a wide range of high-impact engagements – spanning Dialogues, council meetings, round tables, and knowledge forums. These platforms have enabled consistent trust-based interactions with senior government officials, policymakers, industry leaders, and subject matter experts—offering members a broader worldview that directly enhance their strategic thinking and day-to-day work.

A Thriving, Trusted Community

From its humble beginnings, PAFI has grown into India’s only organized platform for public affairs professionals, with a membership base that now spans over 120 organizations. This includes Indian and global companies, industry associations, consulting firms, and select government institutions. PAFI’s strength lies in the breadth of its membership and the unity of its mission: to promote transparency, integrity, and collaboration in public affairs practice.

As the policy landscape becomes increasingly interconnected and complex, PAFI continues to serve as a beacon of ethical advocacy, meaningful dialogue, and credible leadership—firmly rooted in the founding vision that sparked it all.