Program Overview

To provide an opportunity for CALP alumni in senior management positions in banks to share their experiences.

The CAFRAL Advanced Leadership Program (CALP) was conceived in 2012 as an innovative initiative tailored for senior management of banks in India. It offers a unique opportunity to expand strategic thinking and equip leaders to guide their institutions in an increasingly competitive environment.

CALP has become an annual flagship program from CAFRAL, with three editions conducted in November 2012, November 2013, and February 2015. Across these batches, 69 senior-level bankers from 25 public and private sector banks have participated.

Most past attendees of this prestigious program now hold senior management positions such as CMD, DMD, ED, CFO, and CRO in various banks.

Alumni Meet

CAFRAL organised an alumni meet for CALP participants from all three programs at Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, Alleppey, Kerala, on May 15, 2015. The meet was well attended by participants from all batches. Many shared how the program shaped their leadership qualities and deepened their understanding of emerging issues in banking.

Testimonials

B K Batra, Deputy Managing Director, IDBI Bank
“Programs like CALP and the Alumni Meet bring together various bankers and create a feeling of warmth and connectedness. We senior bankers need to increase this connectedness. We have individual thinking and viewpoints, but they don’t get consolidated or leveraged. We must come together and share our issues and problems—especially in tough times—so we can support each other. CALP and the Alumni Meet are great ideas. We must take them forward and commend them.”

V Murali, Deputy Managing Director, State Bank of India (CALP 2012)
“When I came for CALP in 2012, I was about to take an ‘Audit Restructuring’ proposal to the Board. The Board Exercise at CALP gave me the confidence to do so. I successfully navigated and implemented the plan, and we even received appreciation!”

Melwin Rego, Deputy Managing Director, IDBI Bank (CALP 2013)
“Every senior banker in the country—whether from public, private, or foreign banks—should attend CALP. They will gain immensely, and the time spent will enhance their performance and that of their bank. CAFRAL and CALP have made a big difference to many bankers’ lives. I’m fortunate to be among them.”

R K Takkar, Executive Director, Dena Bank (CALP 2013)
“I got my elevation after attending CALP. As soon as I joined Dena Bank as ED, I had to attend a press conference and analyst meet. The virtual press and analyst meet at CALP helped me immensely. I also learned time management, which is crucial at this level.”

Gauri Shankar, MD & CEO, Punjab National Bank (CALP 2013)
“I had just completed one and a half months as ED of PNB when I attended CALP. My outlook broadened significantly. I learned many things I didn’t know before. One key aspect is the closeness and camaraderie formed among senior bankers.”

Anuradha Rao, Chief General Manager, SBI (CALP 2015)
“The experience was wonderful. Every aspect of the program was thoughtfully structured. We gained insights into emerging regulatory areas and risk management. The speakers were well chosen, and the sessions empowered us to address our organisational needs. The case studies were real-life and equipped us with potent tools.”

K P Nair, Executive Director, IDBI Bank (CALP 2015)
“I’m extremely impressed with CALP 2015. It’s unique, especially for those at or aspiring to top management. In a short time, CAFRAL taught us the skills needed at this level and how to apply them in real-time banking.”

Supritha Shetty, Senior General Manager, ICICI Bank (CALP 2015)
“I’m absolutely delighted and privileged to be part of CALP 2015. It’s one of the best training programs I’ve ever attended. It’s not just about training—it’s the entire ecosystem, the structure, and the diverse group of participants from public and private sector banks. The learning experience was immense, both inside and outside the classroom.”