some of the key leaders are either receding into the background or giving up their positions to do other things.

Last week, Nandan Nilekani, the co-chairman of the Bangalore-based Infosys Technologies and one of the most well-known brand ambassadors for India and Indian IT, quit to head a special project for the government; S Ramadorai, among those instrumental in making TCS India���s largest software services exporter, will step down in August as CEO after 37 years with the company. He will be replaced by N Chandrasekharan.

Clear succession plan crucial

Rishad Premji, software tycoon Azim Premji���s elder son, on Wednesday took over his new role in Wipro as general manager, treasury and investor relations. Rishad is being looked upon by many as a possible successor, though Mr Premji has made itin HCL Corporation, and not either HCL Infosystems or HCL Technologies ��� both managed by a group of professionals.

Another top official of the company, who sits in New Delhi, on condition of anonymity, said: ���This is a family affair and not a company affair, so it���s not a major development. The holding company also has its own requirements for governance and management.���

HCL Corp owns 49.69% in HCL Technologies and 44.32% stake in HCL Infosystems. The two companies are worth more than Rs 13,000 crore.

Ms Nadar studied at Vasant Valley School, New Delhi, and did her undergraduate in radio, TV and film studies from Northwestern University, Illinois. Later, she did an MBA in social enterprise management and strategy from Kellogg.