Sanjay Khanna Takes Charge as Chairman & MD of BPCL: A New Chapter in Energy Leadership

Introduction: Leadership Transition at One of India’s Energy Giants

In a significant development for India’s oil and gas sector, Sanjay Khanna has officially taken over the additional role of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL). Already serving as Director (Refineries) at BPCL, Khanna’s expanded responsibilities position him at the helm of one of India's most important state-owned enterprises in the energy domain.

This leadership shift comes at a crucial time, as BPCL navigates strategic transformations, investment in clean energy, and modernization of its refineries to stay competitive in the evolving global energy landscape.

Who is Sanjay Khanna? A Veteran in Energy Operations

With over three decades of rich industry experience, Sanjay Khanna is no stranger to BPCL or the challenges of India’s energy ecosystem. A chemical engineer by qualification, Khanna began his career at the company and has held multiple key leadership roles, particularly in refining operations and strategic project execution.

His areas of expertise include:

• Refinery management and modernization

• Operational efficiency and project execution

• Sustainability initiatives within hydrocarbon businesses

• Strategic transformation planning

Khanna’s leadership has been instrumental in improving refinery performance and supporting the corporation’s shift toward greener, more efficient operations.

What This Appointment Means for BPCL

As CMD, Sanjay Khanna is now responsible for overseeing the company’s end-to-end operations—ranging from refining and marketing to investments in alternative fuels and digital transformation. His appointment signals continuity, stability, and technical expertise at the top.

Key priorities under his leadership are likely to include:

• Accelerating BPCL’s clean energy transition, including solar and hydrogen ventures

• Strengthening refinery infrastructure with advanced technologies

• Driving digital transformation across operations

• Maintaining supply chain resilience amid global volatility

Khanna's appointment also comes at a time when BPCL is actively preparing for India’s evolving fuel demand, while aligning itself with the nation’s decarbonization goals.

BPCL at a Glance: A Pillar of India’s Energy Infrastructure

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited is one of India's largest integrated energy companies, operating in the fields of:

• Refining and marketing of petroleum products

• Retail fuel distribution across the country

• Natural gas marketing and pipeline infrastructure

• Renewable energy investments

With a strong retail presence and extensive supply chain capabilities, BPCL plays a critical role in ensuring fuel security for both domestic and industrial consumers.

Looking Ahead: A Steady Hand During Strategic Shifts

Sanjay Khanna’s expanded role comes during a time when the global energy sector is undergoing massive shifts—ranging from geopolitical disruptions to rapid clean energy adoption. Having someone at the helm who understands the complexities of refining, energy efficiency, and long-term sustainability positions BPCL to not only manage these transitions but also lead them.

Khanna’s background in operational leadership gives BPCL the balance it needs between innovation and discipline, helping the company pursue long-term strategies without losing focus on day-to-day performance.

Conclusion: A Technocrat at the Helm of India’s Energy Future

Sanjay Khanna’s appointment as Chairman and Managing Director of BPCL is a testament to his proven leadership and technical depth. As BPCL embarks on ambitious plans in both traditional and green energy domains, his stewardship is expected to bring clarity, strength, and vision.