PANAJI
The All India Distillers’ Association (AIDA) has appointed Bharati Balaji as its Deputy Director General, strengthening its leadership team at a time of increased focus on biofuels and energy security.
Balaji brings over 25 years of experience across legal practice, corporate roles, and policy advocacy and compliance within industry associations. She began her career at the Supreme Court of India, where she practised for nearly five years before moving into the corporate sector.
Prior to joining AIDA, she was associated with the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA), where she joined in 2012 as Deputy Head. She played a key role in the registration and operationalisation of ISMA’s bio-energy arm, the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association, and later rose to the position of Director. In that role, she handled policy formulation, strategic initiatives, and legal and compliance matters. She also served as acting head of ISMA for three months during a leadership transition.
Earlier, Balaji worked with The Times of India Group as Manager–Legal, overseeing a range of legal and contractual matters during her five-year tenure. She later joined Microsoft, where she led the Contract Sourcing and Negotiation team, gaining international exposure in corporate governance and team management.
Commenting on the appointment, AIDA President Vijendra Singh said, “We are delighted to welcome Ms Bharati Balaji to AIDA’s leadership team. Her strong background in policy advocacy and regulatory affairs will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen the ethanol, sugar, and potable alcohol sectors, and further AIDA’s role in shaping the future of India’s distillery ecosystem.”
AIDA Vice President Kushal Mittal added, “Ms Balaji’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture, as the government sharpens its focus on strengthening energy security and reducing import dependence through accelerated adoption of biofuels. AIDA remains committed to addressing the evolving landscape of the ethanol, sugar, and potable alcohol sectors, while deepening policy engagement and driving sustained industry growth.”
AIDA is the apex industry body representing ethanol, bioenergy, and potable alcohol producers in India, including both grain-based and molasses-based ethanol manufacturers. It works closely with stakeholders to advance ethanol blending, promote farmer welfare, enhance energy security, and support sustainable fuel technologies.
