Air India's "Iron Man" - Chairman and Managing Director Arvind Jadhav

From the first time I met him, I have always admired him. Arvind Jadhav is a tough, no-nonsense, go getter -- a rare quality in a government bureaucrat anywhere in the world, but exceedingly rare in India.

He was identified as the man to head Air India even at a time when the venerable Mr. V. Thulasidas was in contention.

The quality of his work, the no-nonsense style, and result orientation has brought him to the notice of no less than the Prime Minister himself. In addition to a proven track record of dynamic and decisive action and producing results, Jadhav does not mince words.

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This interview with Business World shows us the Iron Man of Air India. Remember life long employment is the holiest of cows in India's government.

The political masters, most especially civil aviation minister Mr. Praful Patel, need to learn from the Malaysia Airlines turn-around experience under leadership of Idris Jala, and give Jadhav the same freedoms; to do what he thinks needs to be done. The next few months in Air India would very interesting and he will turn the airline around.