Who Is Ajay Banga, Indian-Origin Banker On Trump’s Gaza Peace Board
The White House has announced the formation of the “Board of Peace” under US President Donald Trump to oversee the temporary governance of Gaza. The move comes amid ongoing violence in the region, despite a fragile ceasefire that began in October.
Among the members of this new board is Ajay Banga , the Indian-origin President of the World Bank Group, highlighting his growing influence on global economic and political affairs.
Ajay Banga is the 14th President of the World Bank Group, nominated by former US President Joe Biden in February 2023 and confirmed for a five-year term in May 2023. He officially took charge on 2 June 2023.
According to the World Bank Group, Banga has aimed “to transform the 80-year-old institution into a faster, more efficient, and more impactful partner in development.” Under his leadership, the World Bank has launched reforms to increase lending capacity, streamline operations, and focus on practical, scalable development solutions.
Early Life and Education
Born on 10 November 1959 in Khadki, Maharashtra, Banga comes from a Sikh family; his father served in the Indian Army. He completed a BA (Honours) in Economics from St Stephen's College, Delhi, in 1981, before earning a postgraduate management degree from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad.
From Global Business to Public Service
Before joining the World Bank, Banga was Vice Chairman at General Atlantic and earlier served as President and CEO of Mastercard, leading a global workforce of nearly 24,000. He also founded the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, promoting equitable and sustainable economic opportunity.
Banga’s leadership extends well beyond business. He served as Chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce from 2020 to 2022 and has held board positions at the American Red Cross, Kraft Foods, and Dow Inc. He is also a co-founder of the Cyber Readiness Institute.
Recognition and Honours
Banga’s contributions have been recognised internationally. Awards include the Singapore Public Service Star (2022), Padma Shri (2016), the Foreign Policy Association Medal (2012), and the Ellis Island Medal of Honour.
With his appointment to the Trump-led Gaza Peace Board, Ajay Banga now extends his influence from global finance to international diplomacy, combining decades of corporate leadership with public service expertise.
Among the members of this new board is Ajay Banga , the Indian-origin President of the World Bank Group, highlighting his growing influence on global economic and political affairs.
Who Is Ajay Banga?
Ajay Banga is the 14th President of the World Bank Group, nominated by former US President Joe Biden in February 2023 and confirmed for a five-year term in May 2023. He officially took charge on 2 June 2023.
According to the World Bank Group, Banga has aimed “to transform the 80-year-old institution into a faster, more efficient, and more impactful partner in development.” Under his leadership, the World Bank has launched reforms to increase lending capacity, streamline operations, and focus on practical, scalable development solutions.
Early Life and Education
Born on 10 November 1959 in Khadki, Maharashtra, Banga comes from a Sikh family; his father served in the Indian Army. He completed a BA (Honours) in Economics from St Stephen's College, Delhi, in 1981, before earning a postgraduate management degree from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad. From Global Business to Public Service
Before joining the World Bank, Banga was Vice Chairman at General Atlantic and earlier served as President and CEO of Mastercard, leading a global workforce of nearly 24,000. He also founded the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, promoting equitable and sustainable economic opportunity.Banga’s leadership extends well beyond business. He served as Chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce from 2020 to 2022 and has held board positions at the American Red Cross, Kraft Foods, and Dow Inc. He is also a co-founder of the Cyber Readiness Institute.
Recognition and Honours
Banga’s contributions have been recognised internationally. Awards include the Singapore Public Service Star (2022), Padma Shri (2016), the Foreign Policy Association Medal (2012), and the Ellis Island Medal of Honour. With his appointment to the Trump-led Gaza Peace Board, Ajay Banga now extends his influence from global finance to international diplomacy, combining decades of corporate leadership with public service expertise.
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