“I look forward to working closely with the Board and management to strengthen governance, drive long-term value, and steer the company through the evolving landscape of healthcare and insurance. Our focus will remain firmly on inclusive growth, ethical leadership, and institutional excellence,” Rajeev Kher, chairman, Star Health Insurance
Chennai: Amidst troubled times, Star Health and Allied Insurance (Star Health Insurance), India’s largest retail health insurance company, has appointed former commerce secretary Rajeev Kher as independent director and chairman of the company.
The decision was taken at the Board meeting held on April 29, 2025. This appointment is subject to regulatory approval from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).
Kher brings over four decades of distinguished service across international trade, industrial development, sustainable policy, and regulatory governance.
Kher has held key leadership roles in the Ministries of Environment and Commerce, and served as a Member of the Competition Appellate Tribunal. He is widely regarded for shaping India’s Foreign Trade Policy (2015–2020), leading international trade negotiations, and championing regulatory frameworks that align with global standards. His expertise continues to be sought by government bodies, global corporations, and policy think tanks across domains.
Commenting on his appointment, Kher said, “I am deeply honoured to take on this responsibility at a time when health insurance is becoming central to India’s social and economic resilience. I look forward to working closely with the Board and management to strengthen governance, drive long-term value, and steer the company through the evolving landscape of healthcare and insurance. Our focus will remain firmly on inclusive growth, ethical leadership, and institutional excellence.”
Anand Roy, MD & CEO, Star Health, said, “ Kher’s visionary leadership, vast policy experience, and deep understanding of governance and public interest will be invaluable as we chart Star Health’s next phase of growth.”