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10 Dec 2025·Source: The Hindu
2 min
EconomyNEWS

Indian Firms Prioritize Leadership Continuity for Growth: Deloitte Study

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Indian Firms Prioritize Leadership Continuity for Growth: Deloitte Study

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Quick Revision

1.

78% of Indian organizations have institutionalized formal succession management frameworks.

2.

24% women as high-potential employees.

3.

57% of next generation leaders step into business between the ages of 24 and 27.

Key Dates

2025 - Year of Deloitte India’s Talent Readiness Study.

Key Numbers

78% - Percentage of Indian organizations with formal succession management frameworks.72% - Percentage of Indian organizations with formal succession management frameworks in 2024.

Visual Insights

Exam Angles

1.

Impact of leadership continuity on economic growth

2.

Role of talent management in enhancing competitiveness

3.

Government policies promoting skill development and leadership

4.

Challenges and opportunities in succession planning for Indian firms

View Detailed Summary

Summary

Deloitte India’s Talent Readiness Study 2025 indicates that 78% of Indian organizations have formalized succession management frameworks, up from 72% in 2024. The study highlights that Indian businesses are building resilient leadership pipelines to navigate uncertainty and sustain competitiveness.

Background

Succession planning has evolved from a reactive process to a proactive strategy for organizational resilience. Historically, many Indian firms relied on informal methods or family-based succession, which often lacked transparency and meritocracy. The increasing complexity of the global business environment and the need for specialized skills have driven the adoption of formalized succession management frameworks.

Latest Developments

Deloitte India's Talent Readiness Study 2025 reveals a significant increase in the adoption of formalized succession management frameworks by Indian organizations. This indicates a growing awareness of the importance of leadership continuity for sustained growth and competitiveness. The study highlights the proactive measures taken by Indian businesses to build resilient leadership pipelines to navigate uncertainty.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. According to Deloitte India’s Talent Readiness Study 2025, which of the following statements is/are correct regarding succession management in Indian organizations? 1. The percentage of Indian organizations with formalized succession management frameworks has increased from 72% in 2024 to 78% in 2025. 2. The study indicates a decreased focus on building resilient leadership pipelines due to economic stability. 3. Succession management frameworks are primarily adopted by multinational corporations operating in India. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  • A.1 only
  • B.2 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is correct as the study indicates an increase from 72% to 78%. Statement 2 is incorrect as the study highlights an increased focus on building resilient leadership pipelines. Statement 3 is incorrect as the study focuses on Indian organizations in general, not just MNCs.

2. In the context of corporate governance and leadership, which of the following best describes the primary objective of succession planning?

  • A.To ensure that the current CEO remains in power for as long as possible.
  • B.To identify and develop internal candidates to fill key leadership positions in the future.
  • C.To minimize employee turnover by promoting from within, regardless of qualifications.
  • D.To outsource leadership roles to external consultants for cost efficiency.
Show Answer

Answer: B

Succession planning focuses on identifying and developing internal talent to ensure a smooth transition and continuity in leadership roles. The other options are either incorrect or represent poor management practices.

3. Consider the following statements regarding the impact of effective succession planning on organizational performance: 1. It reduces uncertainty during leadership transitions. 2. It enhances employee engagement and retention. 3. It guarantees improved financial performance in all circumstances. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Effective succession planning reduces uncertainty and enhances employee engagement. However, it does not guarantee improved financial performance in all circumstances, as other factors also play a significant role.

4. Which of the following factors is NOT typically considered a key element in developing a robust succession management framework?

  • A.Identifying critical roles within the organization
  • B.Assessing the skills and potential of current employees
  • C.Implementing a performance management system
  • D.Mandating that all leadership positions are filled by family members of current executives.
Show Answer

Answer: D

A robust succession management framework focuses on meritocracy and identifying the best talent, not on nepotism. Options A, B, and C are all essential components of a well-designed framework.