Textile industry veteran Sucharu Mahajan Uppal has taken on the role of Country Manager for India at the Organic Cotton Accelerator (OCA). With decades of leadership in the global textile and apparel industry, Sucharu most recently served as the Joint President at Birla Cellulose – Grasim Pulp & Fibre.

At OCA, she will lead the company’s efforts to scale impact across India’s organic cotton sector. “I’m delighted to welcome Sucharu as OCA’s new Country Manager for India,” said Bart Vollaard, Executive Director, Organic Cotton Accelerator. “Sucharu brings not only a wealth of experience in textiles and sustainability, but also a real passion for creating meaningful change in the sector.”

“India is such a vital country for the future of organic cotton, and with her leadership, we have a fantastic opportunity to deepen our partnerships, support more farmers, and build even stronger momentum for our mission. I’m excited to see the fresh perspective and energy she will bring to OCA and to the organic cotton movement in India,” Vollaard added.

″Joining OCA as Country Manager is a privilege I embrace with pride. I am inspired by OCA’s mission to drive systemic change in the global organic cotton sector by supporting farmers, advancing sustainability, and scaling impact from field to fashion. With OCA’s strong vision, I look forward to shaping a bold and inclusive path for organic cotton in India that is resilient and grounded in local realities,″ said Sucharu Mahajan Uppal, Country Manager, India.

Career Snapshot

Sucharu is a seasoned leader with over 28 years of experience. Most recently Joint President at Birla Cellulose – Grasim Pulp & Fibre, she built global brand partnerships, advanced circular fibre innovation, and led cross-border teams.

She’s held senior leadership roles at April Sourcing, Impulse International, and East West Inc, overseeing multi-million-dollar businesses across apparel, footwear, and accessories. Her achievements have been recognised with awards including the WeEqual Innovation Asia-Pacific Award in 2023 and the Pride Award in 2021.

An alumna of NIFT Delhi and Delhi University, Sucharu’s career reflects a consistent commitment to bridging the gap between sustainable raw materials and global supply chains.

At OCA, she will spearhead its India strategy, expanding the Farm Programme, strengthening partnerships, and driving impact for farmers, while reinforcing OCA’s position in this vital cotton-producing country.