The Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC), the apex body for automotive sector skill development under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, has announced the appointment of Mr. Vinkesh Gulati as its new chairperson. He takes over from F R Singhvi, who successfully led the council through a phase of reform and expansion.
Mr. Gulati, a seasoned leader in both the automotive and education sectors, has a strong track record as former President of the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) from 2020 to 2022. He currently heads United Automobiles and the United Group of Institutions. At ASDC, he has already contributed significantly as Vice President, with a focus on bridging the industry’s skill gap, especially in areas like electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing, and digital diagnostics.
He is recognized for pioneering industry-first initiatives such as the Dealer Satisfaction Study, dealer protection reforms, and platforms like GenX and Women in FADA. At ASDC, his leadership in vocational training, certification, and skill programs has been aligned with emerging technologies critical to the sector’s transformation.
Outgoing President F R Singhvi praised the transition, stating: “It has been an honour to lead ASDC during a period of transformation for the automotive sector. We have laid a strong foundation in skill development, and I am confident that under Mr. Gulati’s leadership, ASDC will continue to empower the youth with future-ready skills and play an even stronger role in shaping India’s automotive ecosystem.”
Accepting the role, Mr. Vinkesh Gulati said: “I am humbled to take on the responsibility of leading ASDC at such a pivotal time for the automotive industry. With rapid technological changes and the rise of electric mobility, skill development has never been more critical. My focus will be on ensuring that ASDC continues to deliver industry-relevant training, enhance employability for youth, and prepare India’s workforce for global competitiveness.”
This leadership transition underscores ASDC’s ongoing commitment to strengthening India’s automotive workforce and preparing it for future mobility challenges.