Vamshi Krishna Puluri

Strategic leader with over 20 years of experience driving sustainable transformation across agricultural landscapes in India, with demonstrated leadership in implementing sustainability frameworks, human rights due diligence, ethical sourcing, and environmental stewardship. Deeply engaged in global dialogues on sustainability, Adept at leading multi-stakeholder programs in complex agricultural supply chains, guiding diverse teams, and building resilience in farming communities.

WWF-India, Hyderabad, India

Associate Director – Sustainable Agriculture Programme

2006 – Present

• Spearheaded regional initiatives advancing sustainability and climate adaptation in sugarcane and cotton sectors, integrating environmental and social safeguards.
• Initiated and managed India’s first Bonsucro-aligned pilot with EID Parry, facilitating standard interpretation, field-level capacity building, and cross-stakeholder collaboration.
• Led multi-year programmes focused on regenerative agriculture and responsible sourcing, working with corporates (e.g., IKEA, H&M) and FPOs to improve soil health, reduce nitrogen use, and promote biodiversity.
• Co-designed inclusive interventions that addressed labor rights, women’s participation, and ethical working conditions in agriculture.
• Provided strategic direction for a regional team managing over five projects across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, guiding staff and partners to deliver against sustainability KPIs.
• Engaged with government departments, private sector, and international donors to co-develop landscape-level solutions to land degradation, human rights issues, and climate vulnerability.
• Contributed to the development of field-friendly MEL tools and outcome assessments for certification-aligned and voluntary sustainability initiatives.

Experience with Sustainable Cotton Standards

• Contributed to the design and testing of Better Cotton (BCI) principles, standards, and capacity-building materials in India.
• Participated in global stakeholder consultations led by BCI, Bonsucro (BSI), and other

Education

Certifications & Training

• ESG certification for future, IIM Bangalore
• Master Trainer from Small Holder RSPO standards 
• Leadership Trainings, & Social Impact (internal WWF capacity sessions)
• Soil Health & Climate Adaptation Strategies (ICAR & FAO-supported programs)