Mission
To advance policy research and innovative solutions that drive the sustainable transformation of economies and communities, fostering well-being, resilience, and inclusive growth for a harmonious and prosperous global future.
Vision
A world where economic prosperity and community well-being coexist sustainably, guided by collaboration, equity, and the principles of sustainable development.
Who We Are
PIONEERING THE NEXT ERA OF GOVERNANCE
The Global Forum for Sustainable Transformation (GFST) is an apolitical and non-profit think tank focused on shaping governance through DeepTech, GovTech, and data-driven policy reforms. Our work is grounded in the belief that the next era of governance must be real-time, data-driven, and citizen-aligned.
GFST is a platform for knowledge sharing and enterprise promotion for sustainable transformation of economies and communities for well-being and happiness. Through rigorous research, expert insights, and strategic initiatives, GFST aims to bridge the gap between policy and practice, promoting sustainable development, resilience, and inclusive growth.
At our core, we develop real-time data stacks and digital dashboards with the help of AI, ML, IoT and Blockchain that feed directly into policy ecosystems—enabling decision support systems that empower leaders to act with precision, accountability, and foresight.
We don’t just analyze problems; we architect scalable, tech-integrated solutions designed to tackle systemic challenges across sectors.
We advocate for the uberisation of knowledge, dismantling silos by making research, insights, and tools openly accessible to policymakers, entrepreneurs, and communities alike.
We believe in inclusive, collaborative governance that places people at the center of policy design. Drawing from our research on the Public-Private-People (P4) model, we recognize the value of engaging citizens as active contributors alongside governments, experts, and entrepreneurs. Our process begins with researching systemic challenges and identifying areas for technological disruption. Through multi-stakeholder collaboration, we build tech-driven policy interventions that are both sustainable and scalable.
Through pro bono advisory and open tech frameworks, we extend our services to any developing economy ready to leapfrog legacy systems and co-create resilient governance infrastructure.
We are not just observers of change—we are active participants in designing the infrastructure for tomorrow’s governance.
Our Philosophy
We use DeepTech to build tools and systems that make governance more just, transparent, and inclusive for all. We stand for open innovation, shared intelligence, and collaborative governance, unlocking potential by making tools, knowledge, and support universally accessible. Our philosophy centers on decentralizing expertise—bringing together diverse voices, real-time data, and technology to craft policies that truly serve the people.
We view governance as a dynamic, evolving system—one that must learn, adapt, and respond in real-time through intelligent infrastructure and collective insight. We co-create with those closest to the challenge—governments, citizens, and local changemakers or entrepreneurs—ensuring solutions are grounded, inclusive, and impactful.
Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
We harness the precision of technology, the energy of entrepreneurship, and the creativity of innovation to build governance systems that are fair, transparent, and future-ready.
Strategic Partnerships & Scalable Frameworks
GFST works pro bono with governments to co-develop transformative systems anchored in a structured 5-Year Strategy & Action Plan. Through methodologies like Rapid Survey Methodology and Unified Methodological Protocols (UMP), GFST creates standardized SOPs and toolkits that enable cross-sector interoperability and data-driven governance. Aligned with global sustainability goals, this model offers a replicable blueprint for systemic transformation.
Meet our Chief Patron
Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu
Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh
The Global Forum for Sustainable Transformation (GFST) was founded in March 2020 with a clear vision: to drive sustainable change across global economies and communities. Our goal is to improve well-being and bring happiness by shaping a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.
We work towards this mission through a range of efforts—sharing knowledge, conducting strong policy research, and advocating for meaningful change. We’re also building a vibrant start-up ecosystem that supports new ideas and turns them into real-world impact.
GFST serves as a platform for networking, mentorship, and investment, encouraging entrepreneurs and changemakers to grow. By connecting people, resources, and opportunities, we support innovation both in India and around the world.
Our focus spans across key areas like technology in governance, inclusive economic empowerment, emerging tech, infrastructure, and sustainability. We’re committed to unlocking potential, supporting communities, and creating a more resilient and equitable future for all.
S.P. Tucker
I.A.S (Retd) & Former Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh
Vice Chairman & Director, GFST
S.P. Tucker is a veteran civil servant and visionary strategist in public policy, infrastructure, and sustainable governance. With over four decades of service in the Indian Administrative Service, he retired as the Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh, where he was instrumental in shaping key policy reforms, strengthening state capacity, and advancing data-driven decision-making across departments.
Renowned for his pioneering work in real-time governance, Mr. Tucker led the conceptualization of CMCORE (Chief Minister’s Command and Control Room)—a first-of-its-kind initiative that leveraged big data and analytics for citizen grievance redressal and real-time monitoring of government schemes. He also played a vital role in establishing AP’s Vision 2029, a long-term strategic blueprint for inclusive and sustainable development.
At the Global Forum for Sustainable Transformation (GFST), Mr. Tucker brings a rare blend of field-level experience and strategic foresight. His leadership shapes the forum’s core philosophy of convergence—bringing together government, industry, academia, and civil society to co-design scalable and impactful solutions.
Mr. Tucker has been a driving force behind GFST’s flagship Transformation Conclaves and advisory platforms, which promote inclusive dialogue and cross-sectoral collaboration. His ability to bridge traditional governance with emerging technologies continues to inspire the forum’s mission of accelerating sustainability, equity, and resilience at both national and global levels.
A widely respected mentor and speaker, Mr. Tucker also advises several public and private institutions on governance innovation, infrastructure planning, and sustainability strategy. His post-retirement work reflects his enduring commitment to nation-building and transformative public service.
Sanjay Gupta
Chief Executive Officer, GFST
Sanjay Gupta is a retired Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer and a distinguished leader in digital governance, with over 25 years of experience in driving public sector innovation, e-governance, and technology-enabled transformation. As a technology evangelist and strategic advisor, he brings a unique blend of domain expertise and on-ground administrative insight to his role at the Global Forum for Sustainable Transformation (GFST).
As CEO of GFST, Mr. Gupta leads the organization’s mission to harness emerging technologies for inclusive, citizen-centric, and future-ready governance. He has played a pivotal role in shaping national conversations around GovTech and digital public infrastructure.
Under his leadership, GFST successfully convened the GovTech Summit 2024, a landmark event that brought together policymakers, innovators, and sectoral leaders from across the country. The summit catalyzed several collaborative initiatives in areas such as digital healthcare, MSME enablement, and real-time governance systems.
Mr. Gupta continues to steer GFST’s strategic direction—fostering innovation ecosystems, scaling digital solutions, and strengthening partnerships with governments, industry, and civil society. His work is grounded in a strong belief that technology, when aligned with public purpose, can unlock sustainable and systemic change.
Cherukuri Kutumba Rao
Director, GFST
Mr. Kutumba Rao is a seasoned economist and policy strategist with a deep commitment to inclusive growth and innovation. As a former Vice Chairman of the State Planning Board of Andhra Pradesh, he brings critical insights into development planning, fiscal management, and technology-driven governance.
At GFST, he plays a pivotal role in shaping thought leadership for upcoming forums, including the Conclave focused on digital transformation and MSME innovation. His focus is on creating a robust digital ecosystem, enhancing access to advanced healthcare technologies, and empowering small businesses through scalable, tech-enabled solutions.
With his strategic guidance, GFST is fostering policy frameworks and partnerships that lay the groundwork for sustainable and equitable development—locally and nationally.
Our Team
Ram Prasad
Director, Global Strategic Communication
Sridhar Seshadri
Director, Global Foresight & Innovation
Shreeram Iyer
Director, Global Impact
Dr. Sambasiva Rao Pokuri
Agril. Economist & Admin Officer
Shakeel Dhada
Associate Director, GovTech, AI & Predictive Analytics
Anand Sharma
Associate Director, GovTech & AI Operations
G.M.V.G.K. Bangaru Raju
GMIS Analyst
SK. Adil Akram
Research Analyst