AIRTEL Payments Bank on Monday announced a leadership transition, with Sunil Bharti Mittal set to step down as NonExecutive Chairman and from the Board, effective September 30, 2026. Shabnam Sinha, currently an Independent Director on the bank’s Board, will assume the role of Chairperson for a threeyear term from October 1, 2026. Her appointment has been approved by the Board and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). “Airtel Payments Bank Limited, one of India’s fastest-growing digital banks, today announced a leadership transition as Sunil Bharti Mittal concludes his tenureasNon-Executive Chairman and steps down from the Board, effective September 30, 2026,” it said in its exchange filing.

 

“Shabnam Sinha will assume the role of Chairperson of Airtel Payments Bank Limited for a three-year termbeginning October 1, 2026, following her appointment by the Board and approval by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)," it added. Commenting on her appointment, Sinha said she looked forward to working with the Board and management team to build on the bank’s momentum, drive its next phase of growth and expand its impact for customers, partners and communities. “I am honoured to assume this responsibility at Airtel Payments Bank at a time when digital financial services are becoming the backbone of India's inclusive growth story,” she stated. According to the bank, she brings more than three decades of leadership and board experience across development finance, financial services, public policy and institutional transformation.